connectionsnc.com

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connectionsnc.com

connectionsnc.comconnectionsnc.comconnectionsnc.com
  • Home
  • Carolina Model & Talent
  • Nashville in the Carolina
  • Gallery
  • Model Search
DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES

Who We Are

Our Story

At Connections Model & Talent, we are passionate about the modeling industry and the opportunities it provides for talented individuals. We are a full-service agency, representing models, actors, singers and dancers. Our founder, Dorothy Houston, started the agency in 2002 with the goal of creating a nurturing and supportive environment for talent of all backgrounds. Dorothy Houston has been in the industry for 30+ years.

Our Models

We work with some of the most talented and diverse models and actors in the industry. From high fashion to commercial modeling, and acting our talent bring a unique perspective and energy to every project they work on.

OUR TEAM

Dorothy Houston

Owner 

 

Dorothy Houston is the founder and owner of Connections Model and Talent Agency, based in Hickory, North Carolina. She launched the agency in 2002 and brings over 35 years of experience in the entertainment and fashion industry.

Before establishing Connections, Dorothy built a successful career working in commercials, fashion shows, and on film sets. Her extensive travel, participation in industry conventions, and hands-on experience in various facets of the business deepened her passion for the field. Inspired by her journey and the opportunities she had, she founded Connections Model and Talent Agency with the goal of mentoring and representing new talent.

Today, Connections is a full-service talent agency representing models, actors, and children across film, television, fashion, print, and runway. Under Dorothy’s leadership, the agency has earned a reputation for professionalism, integrity, and a personalized approach to talent development.

Brooke Potocki

Office Manager/Creative Director 


Brooke Potocki became connected to the world of modeling in 2021 when her son was discovered as a model by Dorothy, the founder of Connections Modeling and Talent Agency. From the start, Brooke was deeply impressed by Dorothy’s strong ethics, professionalism, extensive industry connections, and—most importantly—her genuine care and protection of the models she represents.  What began as a personal connection quickly grew into a passion. Brooke began volunteering her time, assisting with showcases, fashion shows, and special projects. As her son progressed and eventually signed with agents in New York City, Brooke’s involvement with the agency deepened. Today, Brooke remains an active contributor to Connections Modeling and Talent Agency, bringing a creative eye and collaborative energy. Her continued support helps welcome and guide new talent as they begin their journeys in the modeling world.

 


OUR TEAM

John Yang

Mandy Carpenter

Eddie Marlowe

Photographer


John Yang - Photographer - 

John Yang has been a dedicated part of Connections Modeling and Talent Agency for over 20 years. Like Mandy, he began his journey as a model, gaining valuable experience and insight into the industry. Despite his success in front of the camera, John discovered a deeper passion behind it. His backgrou

Photographer


John Yang - Photographer - 

John Yang has been a dedicated part of Connections Modeling and Talent Agency for over 20 years. Like Mandy, he began his journey as a model, gaining valuable experience and insight into the industry. Despite his success in front of the camera, John discovered a deeper passion behind it. His background as a model gave him a unique perspective—he understands what models need, how to make them feel confident, and how to capture the smallest details that make a big impact. John takes pride in helping talent craft their own visual identity and brings patience, creativity, and precision to every shoot. In addition to his ongoing work with Connections, John founded his own successful photography business, John Yang Photography. Even with the growth of his own company, John remains loyal to Dorothy and the agency that helped shape his career, continuing to support new talent with the same dedication that has defined his work for two decades.

Eddie Marlowe

Mandy Carpenter

Eddie Marlowe

Marketing Coordinator


 Eddie Marlowe became involved with Connections Modeling and Talent Agency in 2023 while working on a separate project that required models. It was through this collaboration that he met Dorothy, who quickly recognized his extensive knowledge, enthusiasm, and genuine desire to help others succeed. Impressed by his ini

Marketing Coordinator


 Eddie Marlowe became involved with Connections Modeling and Talent Agency in 2023 while working on a separate project that required models. It was through this collaboration that he met Dorothy, who quickly recognized his extensive knowledge, enthusiasm, and genuine desire to help others succeed. Impressed by his initiative and professionalism, she brought him on board—and he has thrived in his role ever since. Eddie plays a key part in organizing and promoting major agency events, most notably the successful “Nashville in the Carolinas” showcase. For that event, he played a crucial role in securing sponsors, identifying new talent, coordinating with vendors, and overseeing a wide range of logistics. His ability to bring people together and elevate every project he touches makes him an invaluable part of the Connections team.

Mandy Carpenter

Mandy Carpenter

Mandy Carpenter

Showcase Assistant/Light and Sound Technician

 

Mandy Carpenter's journey with Connections Modeling and Talent Agency began at the age of 13, when she stepped into the world of modeling by attending showcases and walking the runway herself. Over the years, she gained firsthand experience and insight into the industry, shaped by the steady g

Showcase Assistant/Light and Sound Technician

 

Mandy Carpenter's journey with Connections Modeling and Talent Agency began at the age of 13, when she stepped into the world of modeling by attending showcases and walking the runway herself. Over the years, she gained firsthand experience and insight into the industry, shaped by the steady guidance and support of Dorothy, the agency’s founder. Now, 22 years later, while she is no longer active as a model, Mandy remains deeply connected to the agency. Motivated by gratitude and admiration for Dorothy’s unwavering commitment to her models, Mandy dedicates her time to supporting and mentoring young, aspiring talent. Her passion for helping others succeed is rooted in her own journey and the belief that every model deserves the same care and encouragement she once received.

Discovering the Essence of connectionsnc.com: A Collection of Top Models

Contact Us

Better yet, see us in person!

We love for you to feel free to visit during normal business hours. Please call or text to setup an appointment, 828-781-0501


Email: connectionsmt@aol.com 

connectionsnc.com

Hours

Open today

09:00 am – 05:00 pm

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Do you have What It takes

Showcase Classes

At connections Model and Talent, we are passionate about the modeling industry and the opportunities it provides for talented individuals. Our founder, Dorothy Houston, started the agency in 2002 with the goal of creating a nurturing and supportive environment for Actors, Models, Singers and dancers. Carolina Model and Talant Showcase started in 2007. It's a place for everyone to meet industry professionals in the business and showcase their talents. We have classes available. Please call or text 828-781-0501 for more information. You can also email: connectionsmt@aol.com.

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