Miss NO: Happy Birthday, Eris! This cover is such a powerful statement. What inspired the concept behind the image and the overall shoot? What did you want people to feel the moment they saw it?

Eris: The concept was rooted in elegance and new beginnings. I envisioned something that felt soft yet intentional—centered, grounded, and growing. Turning sixteen has always felt like a major milestone to me. Now that it’s here, I wanted people to feel the beauty of that transition—graceful, powerful, and blooming in real time.

Miss NO: The setting feels very grounded and natural. Was there a reason you chose to shoot outdoors on a wooden deck surrounded by greenery? How does the location reflect where you are in your personal or creative journey?

Eris: The greenery and natural elements were very intentional—they symbolize transformation and personal growth, with me positioned right at the center of it all. Shooting on a wooden deck surrounded by nature felt like stepping into a moment of reflection and renewal. It represents where I am both personally and creatively: grounded, evolving, and embracing a fresh start. The setting allowed the visuals to breathe while still keeping the focus on me—as someone in the midst of becoming.

Miss NO: Your look is so elegant yet minimal. Can you tell us about the styling and why you chose this aesthetic?

Eris: Designer Shari Henry captured everything perfectly. I couldn’t have asked for a better creative partner to help bring this milestone to life. When we consulted, we took time to really dive into what turning sixteen meant to me—how I wanted it to feel and how I wanted it to look. I chose an elegant, soft nude with a touch of gold because it felt timeless and graceful. The gold added warmth and glow without overpowering the simplicity. The overall aesthetic reflects maturity, softness, and stepping into this next chapter with quiet confidence.

Miss NO: How did it feel being both the subject and the visionary behind the shoot? What was it like stepping into a creative director or producer role for your own release?

Eris: I wouldn’t have it any other way. Being both the subject and the visionary was an astonishing experience—bringing an idea to life from start to finish is something I genuinely love. I’m used to taking charge, so stepping into that creative director role felt natural. The biggest challenge was balancing being behind the vision while also being in front of the lens—but once I found the rhythm, it became empowering. I’d do it again a thousand times over.

Miss NO: At 16, you’re already rebranding yourself into the production world. What motivated that shift, and how did it influence this cover? Is there a new message or energy you’re trying to bring to your audience now?

Eris: Executing a vision from start to finish is an incredible feeling. Coming from the modeling and designer world, I’ve always admired how much work goes into each production. My curiosity grew after attending an arts school and getting involved in shows. I started in the costume department, but once I had the chance to direct a production, I fell in love with stage management. Now, I want to bring the energy of being a “Jill of all trades”—I love being unpredictable and showing that I’m not limited to one role or identity. This shift influences my work and this cover, reflecting a new, confident energy that embraces every part of who I am.

Miss NO: Was there a moment during the shoot where you thought: “Yes—this is exactly the story I want to tell”? What clicked for you emotionally or creatively on set that day?

Eris: Absolutely! The moment we stepped into the Aquatic Gardens, I felt my vision coming to life exactly as I had imagined. Everything—the setting, the mood, the energy—aligned perfectly. It was in that instant I truly understood the importance of trusting the creative process, letting go, and allowing the story to unfold naturally. That trust made all the difference and brought an authentic emotion to the shoot.

Miss NO: If someone is seeing this cover for the first time and doesn’t know your story, what do you want them to understand about you from just this image?

Eris: New beginnings—that’s the core of what I want people to feel. If someone sees this cover without knowing anything about me, I want it to spark curiosity. I hope they wonder, “Who is she?” while also sensing the grace, elegance, and quiet strength in the image. It’s an introduction, but also an invitation to follow the journey from here.

Miss NO: What’s next for Eris and how can our readers find you?

Eris: Next up is junior year in high school—an exciting chapter that I know will bring even more growth, challenges, and creative opportunities. Stay tuned for many more productions to come as I continue building my vision and voice. I have a Runway Model Workshop coming up in the DMV on September 7th, and you can also catch me during Emerge Fashion Week in New York this September.

I’m just getting started.

Follow my journey on Instagram at @eris_aubrie