SPLITTING TIME BETWEEN MODELING AND HEALTHCARE, THIS BASKING RIDGE NATIVE IS FULL OF SURPRISES

BY JENNIFER VIKSE PHOTO BY KAUNIS HETKI PHOTOGRAPHY

INDUSTRY: How did you get started modeling?
Danielle Lupo: It wasn’t until the past few years that I started going out on my own and shooting with some skilled photographers and working with some great agencies. I began building a portfolio and networking, which eventually led me to being featured in three international Playboy issues, ultimately making it into eight different countries, two of which my heritage runs from!

Initially, it was a bit of a process getting my friends and family on board with my modeling career; their hesitations were mainly concerning my safety, but I’ve been lucky enough to have worked with some of the most amazing professionals. It has truly been a fun and fulfilling journey that I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Tell us about some other gigs you’ve done.
From modeling for motorcycles, luxury cars, boats, calendars, posters, and being a brand ambassador for some of the best-known brands to high fashion shoots, editorials in fashion magazines… I guess you can say I’ve pretty much done it all. Networking has been key for me; I’ve met some incredible people along the way, which has led to great opportunities.

What’s your favorite thing about the holiday season?
Hands-down…family. This is, unfortunately, one of only a few times of the year when everyone makes it a priority to get together. Christmas Day can even turn into a holiday week, with us all heading down to Atlantic City for more quality family time. My cousins are my closest and best friends.

How does your background influence your look?
People say that they see both the eastern European Polish/ Czechoslovakian side in me as well as the Italian side in certain features.

Where’s home now?
I‘m based out of my hometown, Basking Ridge in New Jersey, but sometimes I feel like I’m a full-time New York resident, given how often I find myself there.

What are your other interests?
I’ve been working and studying in the medical field for six years now. I started working as a dental assistant in high school and continued my education in health science, specializing in cardiology. I recently obtained my science degree and certification as a cardiographic technician. In order to finish the degree, I had to leave work at Saint Peters University Hospital in New Brunswick to start part time at Playboy Club NYC as a Playboy Bunny. It’s really fun to shock people with my knowledge and professional background. I feel extreme pride in representing all the beautiful, smart, and empowered women out there.

What do you hope for the future?
To have established a long and successful career in both modeling and healthcare. Each year in the fashion industry seems to top the last. I’m fascinated by that culture and grateful just to be involved. As far as healthcare goes, there is still so much to learn and explore. I’m looking forward to dive deeper into studies and brainstorm new, innovative ways to utilize the latest technology. It’s a thrilling time in both worlds.