Most Adrian models complete a series of courses in subjects such as hairstyling, wardrobe, makeup application, etiquette, social graces, speech and diction and all types of modeling. Somewhere along the way, building his models' confidence restored his own.

His models are a well-rounded bunch, taking direction from Adrian himself. He emphasizes that a good sense of humor is key to surviving the business, as is optimism. He learned that from the late actress Natalie Wood when he judged dance contests.

I didn't expect to find such a good friend in Mr. Adrian,'' said Jessica Boyle, 22, of Pasadena, one of his top models. The agency has helped me to be more confident and to learn how to present myself. Those skills have helped me in many other aspects of my life.

He said his models enjoy their work, and many of them do it as a part-time job while they attend college. Boyle and model Debra Notaro, 18, are in pre-med programs. Gonzalez said she hoped to attend fashion design school.

This is cache, read story here