I have set myself another challenge this weekend and the nerves have officially kicked in, big style.
I’m struggling to eat and that nervous, butterfly stomach feeling just wont leave me alone. Alright, so I’m not skydiving or bungee jumping or doing anything physically dangerous, but my self confidence is taking a real beating.
It all started on Sunday morning, as I tend to get myself involved in all manner of random things when I’m up at 5am with no school run to distract me.
I’m reporting on the, sold out BMD Law Liverpool Fashion & Beauty Awards this Saturday and I’d emailed organiser, Amanda Moss to see how prep was going, at the same time runway manager, Natalie put a call out for a model size 12/14 as she’d had a late cancellation.
. 
Being naturally helpful, I offered up the contacts who had walked for Natalie before, but at late notice they had prior engagements. So, yep, you guessed it. I uttered the immortal words: “I’ll have a crack at it” and so a catwalk challenge was born.
Firstly I thought this would make for great viewing for my social media accounts. Reporting live from backstage at catwalk show, showing viewers the real prep, the models and of course, the collections. Actually walking the catwalk would give me extra scope to write about the industry and its age-old size issues.
Secondly I’m more likely to do a Carrie and fall on my face, like fashion road-kill while a pro steps over me which could create a YouTube vid that goes viral, adding to my social media presence, but for all the wrong reasons.
It’s now Friday morning, and the nerves have really kicked in. I’ve had my nails done and hair coloured, but I’ve not magically dropped two stone and toned up in the five days since I agreed to take part.
In real terms I can walk from one place to another with relative ease, but I am the most accident prone person in the world so there’s a good chance of a trip. I’m not a natural scouse princess either, tan doesn’t suit me and my brows are just my own, but I’m hoping Emma Lampkin’s MUA team can help me blend in for the occasion.
I am coming to terms with the fact that this is me, and after watching what feels like hours of ‘How to Walk Like A Runway Model’ tutorials, I’m going to walk from one side of a room to another, exactly as I am. Head up, shoulders back, one foot in front of the other.
One thing that has to be said for fashion shows in the North West, and kudos to the organisers far and wide, is that fashion is accessible here. It’s not about pretentious shows for frowers and celebrities. The events are about celebrating talent and creativity in all its forms.
I just hope Saturday’s guests bear that in mind as I sashay all Phoebe-From-Friends-Running-like.
Catch my live updates from 5pm on my Facebook & Twitter accounts http://www.facebook.com/katereillyjames and @Katereillyjames
Wish me luck!
Kate Reilly James 