We had the good fortune of connecting with Marina Elaine and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marina, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
Punctuality, preparedness, and professionalism are habits that I feel have helped me to succeed. Showing up on time, being prepared, and acting professional are what make people want to hire you and work with you! If you’re late, unprepared, or have a bad attitude, chances are you’ll miss out on future opportunities and/or lose relationships in the process. It’s crucial to represent yourself in the best light, meaning that you’re ready to go on time with a smile!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a burlesque performer and pinup model that focuses on the glamorous, classic Old Hollywood vintage look with a tattooed twist!

I have been a vintage and antique clothing collector for well over a decade, and was working at a vintage reproduction clothing store when I first started pinup modeling. It eventually led to my interest in burlesque when I befriended some wonderful Florida performers that took me under their wings and grandmothered me into the Florida burlesque community. I began first as a stage kitten for shows, in which I set up props and picked up costume pieces, and was able to gain a lot of knowledge before I ever performed. While burlesque was (and still is!) a challenge, I’ve had the opportunity to travel and perform alongside some amazing people in some really cool places. Even with everything going on with Covid-19, I’m excited to eventually be able to travel and dance again!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Such a difficult question!

I am originally from Fort Lauderdale, but have recently relocated to the Sarasota area.

If my best friend were visiting me in South Florida, I would definitely love to take them to Vizcaya and the Bonnet House, two of my favorite museums. As far as eating, lots of Italian food at Big Louie’s Pizza, some delicious vegan food at Green Bar, late night greasy burgers at Lesters Diner, and some happy hour tacos at El Camino. Stache 1920s Drinking Den and my old stomping grounds of PoorHouse in downtown Fort Lauderdale would be my go-to for cocktails.

If my best friend were visiting me in Sarasota, I would immediately bring them first to the Ringling Museum, which houses one of the most amazing art collections that I have ever seen. Pangea Alchemy Lab and Florida’s oldest tiki bar the Bahi Hut would be my recommendations for cocktails, and for food, Irma’s Tacos and Piccolo’s (the most fantastic Italian deli ever). They then could come hang out and shop at Canned Ham Vintage, Sarasota’s most highly rated and recommended vintage store, where I also happen to work part time!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I wouldn’t be a burlesque performer if it weren’t for my fellow burlesque sisters Morgan La Rue and Jezebelle Red. Their guidance and encouragement, along with my first initial opportunities to perform, are things that I will forever be truly grateful for.

Website: www.missmarinaelaine.com

Instagram: @missmarinaelaine

Facebook: www.facebook.com/missmarinaelaine13

Other: www.patreon.com/missmarinaelaine

Image Credits
Alexa Luxe Photography Lorenzo Rodgers John Jones

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.