They’re a Model Family- Interview with Laura Bermingham Februrary 2005

We have all heard the term ‘model family’ before, but I actually got to meet one with a difference! Health Living & Wellbeing were delighted to get the opportunity to meet up with Laura Bermingham, model, Ireland AM TV presenter and journalist with Ireland on Sunday, her husband Gary Scully, also a professional model who is currently studying horticulture and their daughter Rosie who is five and absolutely gorgeous - and guess what, she also models! Not many families can boast the fact that every single member has appeared in Vogue - well this family can! They are a very busy bunch these three and our day with them was a manic day of hair, makeup, wardrobe changes, the flash of photos - and lots of fun!
2004 was a very exciting year for you Laura as regards new career choices with Ireland am and Ireland on Sunday. Were these new ventures a natural progression that just happened or did you consciously set out to make 2004 a very different year for you career wise?
L: 2004 certainly became a very, very busy year. I love working, but I find that every so often, I get things in order with some kind of routine, and then I think, well you know, I have a free half hour on a Tuesday, what could I do there? And then I find another job to fill it. But it’s all great really, I truly love what I do. I find myself in a career where ideas and research are crucial, and it’s exciting to discover and understand new things. I suspect though, that 2005 might get even busier!

We interviewed Maura Derrane a few weeks ago and she said that she found the early morning starts on Ireland AM very tough to handle. Have you found it difficult to adjust?
L: Maura does the early shift 5 days a week, and that is tough. I’m lucky in that my schedule is really varied. On any given day, I could be presenting, reporting, filming, a guest, editing or research. Then during the week, I also write my column for Ireland on Sunday and the research for that. Somewhere in there I do the occasional school run, answer the phone 400 times, e-mail, and remind myself to iron the odd thing! So, I don’t really mind the early starts, some days I need them to start at 3.45am!

Interviewing people on live TV can be very daunting and oftentimes nerve wracking to say the least. Any memorable moments since you started?!
L: I’m not sure I slept at all the night before I presented on Ireland AM! It’s strange doing something new, and usually terrifying, but live tv is quite unlike any other experience. The hardest thing was getting to grips with the technical side. At any one time there may be up to three people talking to you via your earpiece. For a while I was sure the voices were going to stay there indefinitely!

I’ve had a few weird and wonderful things to do so far, including Pete the Vet and his cat toilet! Very blonde moment there, I thought the moggie would demonstrate it! But, all in all, I haven’t made a total show of myself, touch wood!

You are one of the most well known faces in Irish modelling and have been one of the most successful models that Ireland has known? Is the industry very different now than when you started out?
It does seem to have changed somewhat, but then so has the climate. There are far more foreign models coming into the market, and there seems to be less shows, which are bread and butter money for models. There are some very professional, great girls working at the moment, and a lot combine modelling with college degrees and courses, which is a smart move for the future.

How did you start out modelling?

L: I was wandering down Dawson Street one day and a woman stopped me and said I had to go around to her sister-in-laws new agency. I did, but on the doorstep was having second thoughts. The woman had followed me round and shoved me through the door! I’m glad that she did though.

Gary you have been a familiar face on the male modelling scene for quite some time. Is it very different now to when you started out as a male model. Is it more pressurised now than when you first began?
G:I can hear it already “he’s not still doing modelling”. 20 years is a long time to be in the business, but it has been good to me. It was a lot easier when I started out, but nowadays, the market seems to be saturated by guys. There is a lot more pressure now on guys because the Irish market is quite small.

How did you get into the whole area of modelling to begin with? Was it something you always wanted to do?
G: A good friend of mine was always going on about how well I would do if I got into modelling. I wanted to finish out my studies before I tried out anything else. To be honest, modelling had never entered my head before, I didn’t really consider myself good-looking enough to do it.

Do you think that taking up modelling as a career is more pressurised for men or more pressurised for women?
G: Modelling has never really been a career for men, it’s always been something that you do part-time. A lot of the time, the men are the accessory to a woman, whether it’s on a shoot or a fashion show. The pressure is never really there for the guys, all they need to do really is show up.

If you hadn’t decided to take up modelling what other profession would you liked to have tried?
G: I’ve always been in front of the camera, but it’s the other side I would have liked to have been on. I would love to have become a photographic journalist for something like the National Geographic. I’ve always been fascinated by nature and travel, there must be so many weird and wonderful things to see and discover.


What would you consider the best part of your job?
G: As a model standing there, giving it your Zoolander best, thinking of the football, and getting paid for it!

Laura you write every week for Ireland on Sunday for their Health and Beauty Section. Would you consider you live a healthy, balanced lifestyle? Do you have to work hard at staying in shape and looking as good as you do?
L: In the three years I’ve been doing Ireland on Sunday, I’m amazed at how much I’ve retained regarding health and therapies etc., there really is something for everyone to learn. Generally, I’m quite a healthy person, I do however suffer with persistent sinusitis and mild asthma, which irritates me more than anything. I’ve tried a lot of therapies to no avail, but I know that my allergy is down to dust mites, so it’s pretty much hard to avoid. Apart from that, I’m lucky in that weight or skin issues don’t really affect me. Once I’m busy, cleanse my skin properly and get enough sleep, I find the rest takes care of itself.

The majority of our readers are females. They lead busy, hectic lives like yourself and many of them like yourself find it hard to balance home life and work life with very little time for themselves. Your top 3 tips for looking good with the crazy schedule that these women lead every day?
L: I know it’s boring, but switch those cups of coffee for glasses of water. Too much coffee makes you tired, cranky and drained by 4pm. Water seems to extend your levels of energy, keeps your skin plumped up, and stops the urge to snap everyone’s head off.
Leave out your clothes and matching accessories every night before bed. It takes 5 minutes to put together a whole outfit, and it saves you 4 hours of irritation the following day if your bag doesn’t match your shoes, or you just cannot locate the ideal belt.
“I am fabulous”, is not a faraway dream, make it your mantra today! We all have fat days, bad hair days, and hide under the stairs days, but why? If you hear something often enough, eventually you will believe it. Every day, tell yourself you are fabulous, your life is glamorous, and sure enough, soon it will be.

Gary any hints that they can pass on to their other half as regards keeping fit and healthy?
G: Find the sport that you really enjoy, and stick to it. Even if it’s only regular walks, exercise is great for your health, and it’s fantastic for relieving stress.

A lot of Irish people would have recently seen you appear on the Vodafone TV ad! Do you have to put lots of work into keeping in shape? Do you find it hard to keep up the momentum or you are you just one these lucky people who stays in shape without much effort.
G: Fortunately I have been lucky when it comes to my body, I’m not prone to putting on weight, although I do workout on a regular basis, and try to be as active as possible. I eat what I like generally, but it is important to take care of your body, and it will take care of you.

Rosie is an absolute natural in front of the camera - as a parent would you have any reservations about her continuing in the industry. Will you put any restrictions on her as regards modelling?
G: Obviously she gets it from Laura and I, she certainly has the confidence to carry it off. Because the two of us modelled for such a long time, we know the ins-and-outs, and the pitfalls of the business, so we could guide her along, if it’s what she decides to do. Restrictions? Yes! Finish school/college, then go and do whatever it is.

With the whole media focus on negative body image and the pressures being experienced by teenagers at the moment what words of advice would you give to those contemplating taking up modelling as a career?
G: All teenagers go through self-doubt and peer pressure, it’s part of life. If you think modelling is an option for you, then go for it, but be aware there are knocks to your confidence on a regular basis. Because the job is based on physical appearance you are not always going to be the right person for the job, and you have to accept that.

Laura would you have any reservations as a parent if she decided to embark on a career as a professional model. What advice would you give to her and the thousands of other young girls who are interested in taking up modelling as a career?
L: I have no objections if she chooses to model. They say that apples don’t fall far from the tree, and that one has all the Bermingham wit and determination to do exactly what she chooses! So far, she wants to be a model girl, writer girl, TV3 girl, and because we were in MAC today, a make-up girl. It will be interesting to see where she finds the time! If a girl wants to be a model, I would say, realise that you are entering a career that could be the most glamourous and best fun you could ever have in your life, but be aware that it is a job, it’s hard work, and the hours are ludicrous on occasion.
A good dose of common sense is necessary to succeed, your confidence can be shattered with comments like, your arms are too long, your face is too pretty/plain, your hair is too long/short, your bottom is too big/small - all of which were said to me on a regular basis for about 15 years. Sure I cried sometimes, but you know what, one day you realise what a load of rubbish that is, and just laugh!

You are very much the mum in a ‘model family’ so to speak. Does this carry its own pressures? I presume you are like everyone else and like to slip down to the shops without makeup and bothering too much about what you are wearing. Unlike others ‘sneaking’ out though, most people will recognise you! Is that difficult?
L: It is difficult to balance the mum and career duties. Because Rosie is only in primary school her day is short, and the juggling of things that have to be done, is enough to give me a nosebleed most of the time!
I do think though that it is in its way a great example for her. She knows that mammy works like a Trojan, and has never assumed that it would, or should, be me that does everything for her. She is very independent anyway, and when we get together in the day, she loves to tell me her stories and listen to mine. She has been to work with me many times, and loves the buzz of television and the paper’s office, so I think she will definitely be a career girl later on.
I don’t mind being recognised really, it’s different now from when I modelled. I’m a very open person and usually end up chatting for ages with them. People in Ireland are generally nice and supportive, and want to see you do well, particularly if they think you are normal and not patronising.

In view of all that is going on in your household do you get to spend much time as a family together? What would be your idea of the perfect ‘family day out’?
L: Our lives are manic, but we do have chilled-out private time, usually at home and we light some candles, have some wine, watch a film, the usual things people do, but we don’t leave a phone on in the house. Pure bliss!
If we go out for the day, we love to go to town for early coffee, do a little shopping, treat madam to some new clothes, have lunch, buy some music, and maybe meet some friends for a drink, or tea with all our ankle scratchers.
It is different spending free time together after you have a child, but we have some fabulous times with Rosie now, and she is so funny at times we fall around laughing. That family feeling makes it all worth it.

What is your favourite way to relax on a day off Gary? We recently saw your garden profiled on Ireland AM – Laura tells me all your handywork! Is gardening a hobby?
G: I want to get into gardening and landscaping full-time, so at the moment I’m training in horticulture and garden design. Gardening has become a passion and I love working outdoors. Plus, it’s a great way to stay fit and healthy. Honestly, I don’t think I do really relax, I’m always doing something.
I do love to watch football, and I’ve taught Rosie how to swim. Generally, even just dosing around on a day off with Laura and Rosie is great.

Who is the main cook in your house?! Do you all eat healthily?
L: Gary is, thanks to him we are alive. If it were down to me, we would be on the cover of all the papers- starving family eaten by goldfish!

With the busy schedule everyone leads in your household how important is eating healthily to you all? Would you consider you have a balanced diet? Any Achilles heel?!
G: We do eat healthily, but usually by choice, we tend to enjoy good food better. We probably think more about it now because we have Rosie. We have different tastes in food, Rosie would tend to prefer my taste in food rather than Laura’s, but we make sure to sit down together for dinner when we are at home at the same time.

You obviously are very aware Laura through your career of all the options out there as regards the importance of maintaining a well balanced diet at whatever stage you are in your life? Do you find yourself incorporating some of these habits/info into your everyday lives at home or do you just switch off and go with your own instincts?
L: We are aware of the fact if you are good to your body, it will reciprocate. We take supplements on a daily basis, and chat about what we’ve eaten during the week, and see if there’s something we should have included. We try and keep Rosie’s diet varied and give healthy snacks for school, as well as treats. But I believe a little of what you fancy won’t kill you, and it certainly makes you happier.

Gary would you consider you have a balanced diet? Any Achilles heel?!
G: We do eat healthily, but usually by choice, we tend to enjoy good food better. We probably think more about it now because we have Rosie. We have different tastes in food, Rosie would tend to prefer my taste in food rather than Laura’s, but we make sure to sit down together for dinner when we are at home at the same time. Achilles heel? Definitely chocolate for myself and Rosie, popcorn with melted cheese for Laura!

What has been the highlight of both of your careers to date?
L: I’ve had some incredible jobs, either because they were in fabulous locations, like Barbados or in Europe, or because I had such craic, either way, I’ve fantastic memories. It feels sometimes like I’m finally getting to the point that I’ve been working towards. Most days I’m delighted to get up in the morning and go to work.
I think I’m lucky to have always been in a job that has constantly changed and progressed, there is no greater incentive than that to make you want to keep motoring along, pushing yourself to see how far the ride will go.
G: I really enjoyed the travel aspect of modelling, getting to visit and live in so many different cities and countries around the world. We had a family highlight last year, Rosie appeared in Italian Baby Vogue, both myself and Laura have appeared in Vogue too, so that was a bit of an achievement.

What’s your opinion on cosmetic surgery?
L: I have covered a lot on the subject and know many people involved in the industry. Whether for cosmetic or medical reasons, any person who walks through the door of a clinic always has a reason to, and I think that should be taken seriously. We have all become a little obsessed with talking about it, and for most that’s all they will ever do. For others, it is a chance of improved confidence, and perhaps being able to let go of life-long hang-ups. That to me justifies the existence of the therapies and clinics. My advice on going ahead with a procedure is, always check and double-check the credentials and professionalism of the clinic involved, and never feel under pressure to proceed when you have any doubts. Unfortunately, for all the great clinics out there, there are also some that should be avoided.

Any unfulfilled ambitions yet to achieve?
L: Loads, always! If I had more time in the day I would be doing more things. Myself and Gary have great brainstorming sessions and really encourage and support each other. We go on a few holidays each year, which is great for breathing space, and a chance to recharge the batteries.
We have a lovely time together when we get to, and it’s never boring. Most of all, I think that we have gotten to the point with our lives and careers where we are aware that if you want or need something, there is nothing stopping you from doing it. That can make life very exciting.

Your biggest ambition in life Gary or have you already achieved it?
G: To be as successful as possible, no matter how hard the work.

Do you have a busy year ahead? Any big assignments coming up?
G: Getting full-time into my new career.

You are married to one of Ireland’s most successful and well known models. You have been highly successful in your own right but perhaps without the same level of household recognition. Why do you think this seems to be the case right across the world when it comes to the level of exposure that female models attract in comparison to male models. Has there been a male model who has transgressed this barrier?
G: Not on the same scale as the female supermodels, but then they tend to have bigger campaigns, probably because women want to spend money more than men!

A lot of our women readers will be interested in who your own personal favourite designers are?
L: I just love Irish designer Peter O’Brien, he makes the most outstanding couture I’ve ever seen. His clothes consistently have the wow factor, and to be honest, he could top anything strolling down the red carpet at the Oscars.

As well as been one of the most recognised faces in Ireland you are also a role model for many women Laura – wife, mother, and a successful career – and you seem to have fun too!
What advice would you give to all those women out there who oftentimes feel frustrated, under appreciated and just downright tired for a lot of the time?
L: We all feel like that from time to time, you just have to get back up and start again. Negativity and bad treatment from others is just one method of controlling you.

Pick a day, and from that day, take everything they say or do, put it in a box, put a bow on it, and chuck it. When they come around, be gracious, they deserve to see how wrong they played you.
Everything you need you can find in yourself, respect yourself, if you believe it, others will too!

Photography by:
Corin Bishop
www.corinbishop.com
Tel: 090 644 4657