PORTLAND

FASHION MODEL EMMA VANDEUSEN

SMOKE & SILK | SEPT. 2025

A Conversation with EMMA VANDEUSEN Overcoming Challenges and Finding Inspiration

We caught up with Emma Vandeusen, a multi-faceted individual who has been navigating some significant life changes and pursuing her passions despite the challenges life has thrown her way. From her recovery after multiple surgeries to her blossoming career in modeling and promotional work, Emma offers an inspiring look at resilience, personal growth, and finding joy in the little things.

SMOKE & SILK ISSUE 001 COVER

If her life were a magazine cover, the headline would read: "Pain Behind the Beauty"

Pain Behind the Beauty

By Al’Uriel

A Journey of Recovery and Rebirth

“I’ve been doing great!” Emma begins, sharing the exciting update that she’s preparing to return to school, majoring in business with a focus on sales. While she's been busy planning her next steps academically, she’s also been recovering from a fourth leg surgery, which has proven to be the hardest of them all. “The recovery has been tough, but it’s made me stronger,” she says.

Despite these challenges, Emma has started doing the things she loves again—working as a barista, hiking, and working out. Most notably, she’s also ventured into promotional gigs, which she recently did one for Rockstar. These exciting opportunities have fueled her optimism for the future.

Behind every runway walk and striking photo lies a story few truly understand. For Emma, beauty has always been more than skin deep—it’s been a journey of resilience, acceptance, and survival.

From a young age, Emma faced health battles that would shape her perspective on life. “As a child, I was always in and out of the hospital with heart and breathing issues,” she shares. “Going through this made me very grateful to be alive and to not take anything for granted.” Spending long periods away from school and her peers, she learned to find peace in solitude and developed a deep appreciation for her own company.

As she stepped into the world of modeling, the pressure to conform to industry standards quickly became overwhelming. “Modeling has definitely changed how I see myself,” she admits. “"I used to put a lot of pressure on myself, thinking I should look a certain way, but I’ve learned to embrace my body as it is. As a young teenager, being told to lose weight to fit into sample sizes really took a toll on me.”

But rather than crumble under the weight of expectations and rejection, Emma found power in vulnerability. “I used to take rejection very harshly and beat myself down,” she says. “Now, I see it as something that just wasn’t meant for me. There are better things out there, and I’ve learned to trust that.” Today, her greatest pride doesn’t lie in magazine covers or campaigns, but in how far she’s come. “I am really proud of how strong I am despite all of the physical pain I’ve been through and still go through every day,” she says. Her strength has fueled a mission beyond modeling—raising awareness about chronic illness and the hidden battles so many face.

“I’ve been speaking out about my health struggles and showing my surgical scars to embrace what I’ve overcome. I want to help others who are struggling with the same things.”

As for this chapter of her life? “It’s been amazing but very hard at the same time,” she reflects. “Getting vulnerable recently with my story has opened so many doors, but it’s also been emotionally intense. Being diagnosed with this rare disease has taken a toll on my family. The diagnosis was both a relief and devastating.”

Emma explains that she felt comforted knowing what she had been experiencing for so long was real, but at the same time, the news brought sadness.

“I want to spread awareness about Ehlers-Danlos through my modeling and use my platform to tell my story.”

What’s next for you? Anything exciting coming up you can share with us?

“I’m finally able to get back into fashion shows, and I’m so excited to be on the runway again! I was preselected to walk for FashioNXT in Portland, and I’m auditioning in a few weeks for Fashion in Flight with Fashion District Northwest. I’ve participated in both before, and they’re always so much fun. Fashion shows are my favorite!”

If you had to walk a runway to one song on repeat forever, what would it be?

“If I had to walk a runway to one song forever, it would be Cinnamon Girl by Lana Del Rey. I love how ethereal and dreamy it feels.”

How do you prepare for a shoot?

“Before a shoot, I focus on feeling my best. I make sure to get a good night’s sleep, and I’m mindful of what I eat so I don’t feel bloated. A little caffeine is a must to get me in the zone, and I love starting the morning with a workout—it helps me feel both energized and mentally prepared.”

Who inspires you outside of the fashion world?

“Outside of the fashion world, my biggest inspiration is my mom. She’s incredibly strong and hardworking, and I admire her so much. I hope to embody those same qualities.”

Comfort Over Heels: Not surprisingly, comfort reigns in Emma’s everyday wardrobe. While her modeling career has required her to wear stylish heels, she prefers sneakers and yoga pants in her free time. “I love being comfortable,” she says, a laid-back lifestyle that includes more relaxed choices in clothing is ideal.

Perfect Day: Hiking, Yoga, and Connection

When asked what a perfect day off looks like for her, Emma describes an ideal scenario. “It’s a quiet morning hike before it gets too hot, followed by yoga to wind down,” she explains. This balance of physical activity and mental tranquility is part of the self-care routine that keeps her grounded.

Vibes at Sakura Yakitori

Smoke & Silk | SEPT. 2025

By: Natalie Spriggel

My dining experience at Sakura Yakitori in Happy Valley encompassed my full presence, captivating all of my senses. Upon opening the door, I was immediately drawn to the vibrant faux cherry tree—I had to take a second, and admittedly, third glance to assure myself it wasn’t real. At the front counter, I was greeted with a warm smile and a welcoming gesture to follow the host to my choice of seat. On this comfortably warm summer night, I chose the outdoor patio.

Once seated with the menu in hand, I noticed the gentle trickle of the nearby waterfall installation, reflecting golden sparkles from the setting sun. The outdoor furniture felt both comfortable and sturdy—a rarity in patio dining. Before long, a sharply dressed waiter introduced himself. After asking for recommendations based on my preferences, I quickly and attentively received fitting suggestions.

I ordered the Spring Roll, Summer Roll, and Lobster Roll. After a short wait, the waiter gracefully presented a large tray filled with a rainbow of sushi. The artistry on the plate made me pause in admiration.

First, I dove into the Spring Roll. It was as though Spring itself rolled onto my tongue, blossoming with flavors of fresh, mild tuna and refreshing avocado, finished by the salty crunch of crispy onion garnish. Next, I indulged in the Summer Roll. The seared salmon topping evoked the smoky warmth of a summer BBQ, while the albacore center melted in my mouth, ending with the sweet touch of unagi. Finally, I savored the Lobster Roll—a textural delight of crunchy lobster tempura and crisp cucumber, balanced by a sugary drizzle of unagi and the spicy kick of wasabi mayo.

I sat back with ease, enjoying the unhurried pace of the service. The staff was attentive yet never rushed, allowing me to linger peacefully and savor the moment until I asked for the check.

I would certainly return—not only for the menu, but also for the modern-meets-authentic Asian décor and serene ambiance. Sakura Yakitori delivered an experience that was both flavorful and memorable.