Lifestyle

From Small Town to Entertainment Capital of the World – Nara Ford

Published

4 years ago

February 16, 2021

How Nara Ford went from a tiny beach town to a widely renowned model and businesswoman living her dream life in Las Vegas

Everyone knows that the modeling industry is one of the toughest to break into. Social media is saturated with would-be models and influencers. So how did a small-town girl from Washington become a (practically) overnight success in such a dog-eat-dog business? Read on to get acquainted with Nara Ford, a tough ex-airman in the U.S. Airforce, who was discovered by being labeled a “Military Hottie” while on active duty in Mississippi.

Behind every beautiful aspiring model, there are hundreds in line hoping to be discovered. Nara Ford realized this truth early on when she began gaining traction in the world of modeling after being featured on several platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and The Chive, for her incredible figure. Nara got a taste of success after her first paid gig (to the tune of $5,000) and was bitten by the entrepreneurial bug. Rather than resting on her laurels, as they say, Nara developed a sharp business plan that has helped her become not only a successful model but a keen businesswoman who helps others, hoping to realize their dreams.

Nara was born and raised in the little beach town of Ocean Shores, Washington. After being led to serve her country, Nara enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. When she realized modeling was a real possibility for a future career, she got serious about learning all she could about the industry. When the Air Force moved her to Las Vegas, she looked at it as a golden opportunity to stretch her legs as a bonafide model, but that is not all. As the modeling took shape, not everyone was thrilled. There was controversy over racy photographs published while an active-duty airman, a blip that did not deter the ambitious Nara. She continued to build her modeling portfolio, being featured in domestic and international magazine publications. More than a pretty face, Nara began constructing a business plan not only to get ahead but bring others along with her.

Nara hosts networking events to brand herself but is also eager to share the knowledge she has amassed in the industry. She hosts engagement groups and has created a unique formula to help new influencers earn six figures annually, as she does. Nara is now within the top 1% of a pool of over 450,000 content creators and strives to help other women do the same. Nara is assembling a team of the hottest up-and-coming girls from small towns who also strive for unique branding and social media success. The idea was born when Nara recognized that many other women share the same ambition as her. As a result, she created ways to help women learn the art of embracing their bodies, not becoming fixated on what others think, and reaching their career goals, however big or small.

Nara is building an empire more than a career. Her brand encompasses not only modeling but running a lucrative website for four years before Only Fans. Nara participates in live streaming, PPV, and messaging, rarely turning down a fan’s request, not even the “off” ones she sometimes receives. She has grown her business while narrowing in on her clientele’s specific needs, perfecting her marketing skills, and monetizing her Instagram following, resulting in over $500,000 in her first year!

Setbacks are common, but thankfully, Nara says, she has not encountered many of them so far in her journey. “One of the keys is to not worry too much about things I cannot control. I focus on myself, try to be the best I can be, and remember that it’s all about the fans.” Nara says she makes it a point to measure herself by her past achievements. To stay focused, healthy, and ready for the demands of her schedule, Nara meditates, works out, and maintains a positive attitude. Self-love and respect are critical keys to her success.

Most entrepreneurs understand the importance of diversifying one’s income streams. Nara is no different. She has found ways to do this every chance she gets. After purchasing and renovating her Las Vegas dream home, Nara rents part of the space for other creators to shoot their content. It is not only a way to earn extra money but also add value to her clients. Fans can expect a lot more from Nara in the future. With tireless energy and willingness to learn and produce exciting content, this model-turned-mogul is quickly making a name for herself. “There is plenty more to come! I am always trying to figure out what my fans want and make that happen in new and entertaining ways.”

Learn more about Nara by following her on Instagram at @thenaraford, Twitter at nara_ford, and on her website at www.naraford.com.

Lifestyle

Why Classical Dance Is Thriving on Instagram

Published

5 hours ago

April 28, 2025

Michelle Langton

For centuries, classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Kathak have been treasured for their elegance, complexity, and storytelling prowess. But in recent years, these age-old traditions have found an unlikely stage: Instagram. From intricate mudras to rhythmic footwork, young dancers are captivating audiences worldwide, all in the span of a 60-second reel.

So, what’s fueling this revival of classical dance on a platform known for trends, filters, and viral challenges?

Instagram, with its visual-first format, has become an ideal space for artists to share their craft. Classical dance, rich in visual storytelling, translates beautifully into bite-sized performances that are accessible and engaging for modern audiences.

“Reels are short enough to grab attention but long enough to convey the essence of a classical piece,” says one of Spardha’s dance teachers, actively creating dance videos for the Instagram page of Spardha School of Music and Dance, an online platform for performing arts education. “You don’t need an elaborate stage or hours of performance; a simple backdrop and good lighting can bring your art to life.”

On Instagram, young dancers bring a fresh approach to traditional art. They skillfully blend classical compositions with trending audio tracks, often choreographing pieces that resonate with younger audiences.

These videos show how classical dance can be relevant in today’s world as young artists reinterpret popular songs in classical style. Such performances respect the tradition, make it accessible to a larger audience by making classical dance relatable.

Social media has also given classical dancers something they’ve never had before: a global audience. Platforms like Instagram allow Indian artists to reach audiences in the U.S., Europe, and beyond, fostering cultural exchange and appreciation.

And the feedback loop is immediate. Unlike traditional performances, which are confined to auditoriums and limited audiences, Instagram reels receive likes, comments, and shares in real time, creating a sense of community and encouraging more engagement.

The rise of online platforms for learning music and dance like Spardha School of Music and Dance has further fueled this trend. Spardha provides structured lessons in classical dance forms like Bharatnatyam and Kathak, and even Bollywood, making them accessible to young learners regardless of their location.

“Many of our students have taken what they’ve learned and showcased it online,” says a representative from Spardha. “It’s incredible to see them not just learn the art but also innovate and present it in ways that inspire others.”

By offering online classes, Spardha ensures that classical dance is no longer restricted to physical studios, enabling dancers to connect with their culture through dance no matter where they are in the world.

The success of classical dance on Instagram lies in its ability to blend heritage with modernity. The younger generation, armed with smartphones and a passion for preserving their roots, is making classical dance both aspirational and accessible.

Dance has always been about expression, and Instagram is just a new way of reaching people.