Panache Model Management

I had a meeting with Panache Model Management in Winnipeg. I've previously heard good things from people belonging to the agency, and nothing bad came up online. They previously had a Model and Talent Search I entered for fun, I didn't win, but they called me back about a month ago saying they loved my pics, and wanted to schedule a meeting so they could re measure me, and start up a file for me. Today was the meeting.

Red flag number one: I get there at 3:50, interview was scheduled for four. One of the women who works there told me they're in a staff meeting, and to just wait. I figured the meeting was almost done and sat down. Almost a half an hour later at 4:15, the lady FINALLY acknowledges my presence and takes me into her office.

Red flag number two: She didn't re measure my measurements or height.

Red flag number three: She launches into a huge discussion about their classes and prices. Now I knew they offered those bogus "modeling classes," but I figured they were optional. But no, no they're definitely not.

Red flag number four: She tells me they take any size and shape over 5'6. Oh, so if someone is 400 pounds and 5'6, they can still be a model? Not likely. Yet the models featured on their walls are all quite small and fashion models. Just shows how much they care about their models ACTUALLY getting work.

What the *** moment number one: This woman stated that classes are 1100 for about six months. Then we do a test shoot which is 800. Then they help me make a port for another 600. Then, I have to buy prints from the shoot for 50 dollars A PRINT. She tells me that I am not allowed to start getting bookings and work until I've completed the classes. They are MANDATORY.

By this point I'm ready to thank her for her time and leave, but she continues to go on and on about the money part, telling me all about runway courses which I don't need, because I am 5'6. (This agency does have two girls who are 5'6 so I figured I'd have a shot at print or promotions.) She then tells me new models only make 45 dollars an hour PLUS agency fees of 20 percent. I MAKE MORE FREELANCING.

She ends the meeting without a handshake or smile, and I leave, throwing the pamphlet she gave me right in the trash. Whatta load of horse ***. I thought everyone knew that legit agencies don't require money like that up front. But what surprises me the most is that this agency has been in business for 20+ years, and some of their models do get international jobs, some of them going so far as to work for Prada and Miu Miu somewhere overseas.

Sorry about the rant, but I'd really like to discuss this with industry people. I'm angry that there was no dirt on these crooks BEFORE I went there.

Total disappointment and waste of time. So if ANYONE is considering this agency, back away, now. I feel sorry for the poor suckers who pay for their *** and get no work. They seem also to be involved with the "Talent INC Canada" Scam out of Toronto.