Model, actress, singer, writer, creator and soon to be YouTube star. Yes, it’s time to get more acquainted with American beauty DANI ROOT…
Quality photo shoot, Dani. Tell us a bit about it.
The idea for my shoot came from wanting to create a relaxed, easy-going, yet sporty look to encompass the Floridian vibe. It took place at Honeymoon Island State Park in Dunedin, Florida U.S.A. – one of my favourite places due to their preservation efforts to protect our Loggerhead and green sea turtles, multiple shorebirds, bald eagles and even gopher tortoises.
Give us a little more background about yourself and story so far.
Growing up, I always had a love for the arts and I immersed myself into all things acting, singing, modelling, writing and creating throughout my youth. I was also born with a heart and lung defect called Scimitar Syndrome; I basically have a combined lung capacity of one average functioning lung. Through overcoming my own obstacles, this has given me the drive to bring awareness and representation to those of us with invisible disabilities to help empower others. I think sharing stories is the best way to develop understanding, spread kindness and open hearts in the world.
What do you love most about yourself?
My ability to say “no”. Growing up a people pleaser, I never learned to put myself first. Now that I’m learning, I’ve realised that there is actually nothing wrong with validating and realising your own needs – the people who matter, will always support this and be there for you no matter what.
What is the first things you do when you get up in the morning?
The first thing I do in the morning is actually pretty nerdy! I have this app on my phone that I like to read comics off and they always put me in a good mood to start my day. After that, I like to meditate while I enjoy my coffee with some relaxing jazz or ambient music.
Got any weird quirks?
One of my weird quirks is that I sometimes sing my actions in my daily life. I love theatre and production so I tend to turn my chores into little performance numbers.
What’s the first thing you notice when it comes to the opposite gender?
It has to be their sense of style. I’m big into creativity, colours and patterns so I like to appreciate and recognise the efforts that others put into picking out what they wear. Besides that, it’s all about the connection you feel with someone.
Describe your ideal partner.
Someone who makes me feel like I’m the only one for them.
What do you think is the most attractive quality in a man?
The ability to listen and communicate. It means the world to me when someone actually takes the time to really hear what you have to say along with them being able to clearly express their feelings as well.
What impresses you on a first date?
If my date ends up having great conversation with me and is able to laugh. It’s terrible getting together with someone who doesn’t talk at all – or worse, all they do is talk about themselves. Total downer!
What advice would you give a man?
The advice I would give a man in a relationship would be to be genuine, sweet, understanding, respectful and always honest. Truly treat someone the way you would like to be treated and don’t lose that spark. As a woman, I like to be surprised and valued. Buy her flowers once in a while – it makes the world of a difference. Lastly, love unconditionally.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
My guilty pleasure has to be ordering take-out and food delivery. I just love eating a variety of different cuisines more often than not, so I’ve gotten into the bad habit of giving in to my cravings by ordering on my apps!
What is something new happening in your life right now?
Something new that I’ve gotten into lately has actually been hot yoga. It makes me feel so refreshed, aligned and relaxed – almost like a detox, you feel like a new person afterwards. I highly recommend it.
Lastly, what is one major thing you want to accomplish by the end of this year?
Starting a YouTube channel. I’ve been saying for years I’m going to start creating content to give myself that creative outlet, but I’ve never gotten around to giving myself that time. Again, working on putting myself first! ■
STATUS UPDATE
NAME: Danielle Marie Root
HOME TOWN: Clearwater, Florida U.S.A.
BORN: February 16, 1996
FIVE WORD SELF-DESCRIPTION: “Caring, giving, artistic, electric and esoteric.”
LIFE MOTTO: “Perseverance is always worth it.”
INSTAGRAM/TIKTOK: @danimroot
Photography by RACHEL FORD
For the full article grab the October 2022 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.
