Katie Meade isn't your typical model. She's 32 years old, stands 4'10" and, most recently, became the first woman with Down syndrome to land a beauty campaign.
Yep, in becoming the face of Beauty & Pin-Ups Fearless Hair Rescue Treatment, Meade is definitely challenging traditional beauty norms -- and having a blast while she's doing it. "It was so fun," she says of shooting her campaign for the beauty brand. "Hair and makeup takes a long time, but I love having it done. And I love getting to try on all the clothes." We can totally relate, Katie.
And when it comes to her off-duty beauty routine, the gorgeous gal admits she's a bit of a beauty junkie. "I'll try any trend," she reveals. "And I love bright lipstick and false eyelashes. They make me feel really glamorous."
But Meade, who also works as global ambassador for non-profit Best Buddies and holds a full-time gig working at her county's treasury office -- talk about a model who knows how to
werk! -- admits she doesn't reach for that scarlet tube of lipstick when she needs to feel her best.
"I feel most beautiful when I'm laughing and spending time with my family and my friends and my dog, Buddy," she says. "Having fun makes me feel good, and that makes me feel beautiful."
With such a refreshing attitude, we just had to ask Meade to share her advice for those days we feel less-than-glamorous regardless of whether or not we've reached for our makeup bags. "Take a deep breath and be brave," she advises. "Choose to be fearless, and you will shine like I did. Beauty belongs to everyone. I have abilities, not a disability, and I want people to know that anything is possible if you chase your dreams."
As for Meade's dreams for the future, she hopes to continue her work in front of and behind the camera. "I want to continue working with Beauty & Pin-Ups, and inspire others to follow their dreams," she says. "And maybe do another photo shoot!"
We eagerly await her next campaign.
Catch Katie in action on the next episode of "Global Beauty Masters," airing on TLC on Monday, April 18 at 11:00 a.m. EST/PST.
