Today we’d like to introduce you to Christina Costello.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I like to believe that I’ve been a fighter my whole life. I was born with congenital pulmonary lymphangiectasia, a rare lung condition that has a high mortality rate in infancy. Because of this, I spent most of my childhood in and out of hospitals, always wishing to be on the outside. Through that time, I watched a lot of televisions and movies, as I grew older, I turned my attention to music to get me through the tough times.
Music, television, and film, inspired me time and time again to keep fighting. And I did.
It was a hard fight. In the last 25 years of my life, I’ve had countless surgeries, been hospitalized many times, and have had a few near death experiences. I believe I’m here for a reason, though.
Fast forward to the present, I am currently signed to an acting agency in New York (New York Model Management Group), I’m the singer in a band (CC and the Sound), and I’ve just started my own aromatherapy business and line of products (CC’s Essentials.) I am so lucky, in all senses of the word, to be alive, and I truly believe that I’m still here to make an impact on the world. I dedicate much of my time being a chronic Illness advocate, with hopes that my story will inspire others to keep fighting and to never give up on their dreams.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road in the slightest, and that’s okay! I struggled a lot with my health over the course of my life. I missed my prom because of it, and I’ve missed many auditions for it too. I’ve struggled with my appearance, my confidence, my anxiety, etc. but I always remind myself to take a breath, and keep moving forward. Things will fall into place, somehow, someway.
The advice I would give to other women starting their journey is to trust your instincts. If something makes you uncomfortable, it’s probably for a reason and you should listen to your gut. If you have a great feeling about a role or an agency, put 100% into it and go for it! You know more than you think, and you are stronger than you know. Do not give up on your dreams, and remember that you deserve happiness.
Please tell us about your business.
I am an actress, model, chronic illness advocate, singer-songwriter, an aromatherapist, and business owner.
I have a lot of dreams, and I’m doing my best to make them come true!
I’m so excited to be signed with NY MMG this year, and so ready to go on a journey with them. I’ve done a lot of indie projects, and I’m excited to hopefully get to act a lot more.
My band, CC & the Sound just released our first music video, “The After” which was shot by Rob Lee and recorded by Bryan Yebba. It was an honor to work with them, and I’m so proud of how it came out. You can find it on YouTube!
I also just started an aromatherapy business, called CC’s Essentials. I make hemp infused body care products with therapeutic grade essential oils with hopes of helping people. I’ve been putting my heart and soul into it, and we’ll be launching a store soon. 🙂
Most of all, I’m proud to be a chronic illness advocate who spreads awareness of people suffering from chronic illnesses. It can be really scary and lonely dealing with health problems, but I try my best to let people know they are not alone. I hope to use my acting and music platforms to reach more people and to help prove that you can still follow your dreams despite living with a (or many) chronic illnesses. I use my Instagram and Facebook pages mostly for that purpose. (@christinamcostello_ on Instagram and Facebook. You can also find CC & the Sound on there too.)
I like to think of myself as a petite package that packs a punch. I’m a little firecracker, with a big spark. I think some of my life experiences, as well as my attitude towards life, sets me apart. I’m able to draw from all kinds of experiences to properly emote in my acting and my music.
What advice would you give to someone at the start of her career?
I believe I said it earlier but trust your instincts. Your gut will not lead you astray. If you’re uncomfortable, it’s probably for a reason. Even if it could be a great opportunity if your gut says no, listen to it.
Be wary of others, it may sound terrible, but not every person you meet will have your best interests at heart. Keep your guard up until someone earns the right for you to put it down.
And most of all, remember that you deserve happiness and try not to be too hard on yourself.
Contact Info:
- Website: Ccsessentials.com
- Email: christinac123@verizon.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christinamcostello_/
- Facebook: Www.facebook.com/christinacostelloactress
- Twitter: Xochristyxo
- Other: Www.facebook.com/ccandthesound
Image Credit:
K. Elizabeth Photography, Jessica Beveridge, CC’s Essentials, Lenka Drstakova
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