From Spanish shores to international stardom, Sandra Imann spills the tea on life, love, and Tequila shots.
Tell us a bit about your shoot…
The plan was to shoot in Europe, specifically in Spain, where I grew up. One of the key elements was working with a professional like Jorge Ogalla, which gave me a lot of confidence. The session was designed to portray a woman who exudes elegance, sexiness, and confidence, while also maintaining an air of innocence.
What made this shoot unique was having a strong team that made me feel comfortable. We aimed to capture a European woman who embodies both sophistication and sensuality, with a touch of chic, American style. Behind every photo, there’s a lot of work, but what matters most is the passion and enthusiasm poured into it. MAXIM was always a priority for me because they understand how to portray a woman’s sensuality while preserving the balance of innocence in something sexy and elegant.
Have you ever been to New Zealand?
I’ve never actually had the pleasure of visiting New Zealand.
However, I’ve heard fascinating stories about its lush natural beauty, with its majestic mountains, pristine beaches, and rich, welcoming culture. Although I haven’t been there, New Zealand is definitely on my dream destination list. I can’t wait to try their famous wine and gastronomy!
When do you feel sexy and why?
I feel sexy when I feel empowered, free, and in control of how I present myself to the world. This factor comes down to my self-acceptance, self-confidence, and ability to attract and impress people.
What is your best asset? Physically and otherwise.
Physically, my best asset is my smile—it can light up a room. Otherwise, it’s my heart and my empathy. I genuinely care about others and always try to understand what they’re feeling, approaching everything with kindness and compassion.
Give us a little more background about yourself and your life story so far.
I grew up in Spain, where the rich culture and vibrant environment played a big role in shaping who I am today. My upbringing was a blend of traditional values and creativity, which pushed me to explore different forms of art and self-expression. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with incredibly talented individuals, and each experience has helped me grow both professionally and personally.
For the last few years I’ve been living in the USA, which has been a fantastic complement to my journey. The mix of cultures and opportunities here has allowed me to expand my horizons and embrace new challenges. It’s helped me find a balance between elegance and strength, sensuality and innocence, while still staying true to my roots. Through it all, my empathy and the heart I bring to everything I do continue to shape my path forward, as I remain open to new inspirations and experiences.
What would people be most surprised to know about you?
People might be most surprised to know that beneath my confident exterior, I have a deep well of love and compassion inside me. I care deeply for those around me and always strive to connect on a meaningful level. It’s that love and empathy that guide everything I do, whether in my personal life or my work, and it’s something that not everyone immediately sees.
How long have you been modelling and what would do if you weren’t modelling?
I’ve been modeling for several years, and I’ve always felt that there’s a model within me. I firmly believe that it’s possible to balance being a businesswoman with being a model at the same time. The creativity and confidence required in both areas complement each other, and I love the idea of expressing my style and personality while also pursuing my professional goals. Fashion and entrepreneurship are not mutually exclusive; in fact, I think they can enhance each other.
What have you learned about men over the years?
Over the years, I’ve learned that men, like everyone else, are complex individuals with their own struggles and insecurities. I’ve come to appreciate the importance of communication and understanding in any relationship. Many men are seeking connection and authenticity just as much as women are. It’s also clear that vulnerability can be a strength, and when men feel safe to express their emotions, it leads to deeper and more meaningful connections. Ultimately, building mutual respect and empathy is key to understanding each other better.
What’s one thing men should always know about women?
One thing men should always know about women is that they value genuine communication and emotional connection. Women often appreciate when men take the time to listen, understand, and validate their feelings. This creates a strong foundation for trust and intimacy in any relationship. Additionally, it’s important to recognise that women are multifaceted individuals with their own dreams, aspirations, and strengths, and respecting that complexity fosters a more meaningful connection.
What do you look for in a man?
In a man, I look for qualities such as kindness, honesty, and a good sense of humour. I value someone who can communicate openly and is willing to share their thoughts and feelings. Additionally, I appreciate a man who is ambitious and has a passion for what he does, as well as someone who respects and supports my goals. A genuine connection and shared values are also important to me, as they create a strong foundation for a meaningful relationship.
Describe your ideal date.
My ideal date would be during the day, starting with a romantic walk along the beach, enjoying the gentle sea breeze and the sound of the waves. After that, we could have a picnic in the sand, with a blanket, delicious food, and a bottle of wine, sharing laughter and secrets. I would love for us to take a stroll along the shore afterward, hand in hand, feeling the sand between our toes. To finish, watching the sunset on the beach, with the sky painted in vibrant colors while we embrace and share our dreams, would be the perfect ending to a magical and romantic date.
What can we get you at the bar?
At the bar, I’d love to enjoy a shot of Clase Azul Gold tequila, served in a short whiskey glass with a big ice cube. I appreciate savoring the smooth and rich flavours of the tequila this way, letting it chill slightly while I take my time to enjoy each sip.
It’s a simple yet elegant choice that really enhances the experience!
Got a hangover cure?
For a hangover cure, I’d recommend a refreshing Bloody Mary paired with a delicious seafood meal. The flavors of the cocktail can help settle your stomach, while the tomatoes and spices offer some nourishment. Enjoying it alongside a plate of fresh seafood, like shrimp or oysters, can be both satisfying and restorative. The combination of the savory drink and flavorful food is a perfect way to recover and enjoy a leisurely brunch!
What’s your best hidden talent?
My best hidden talent is my ability to connect with people on a deeper level. I have a knack for listening and understanding others, which often helps them feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. This talent allows me to build strong relationships and create meaningful conversations, even in casual settings. It’s something that may not be immediately visible, but it plays a significant role in how I engage with the world around me.
Do you have any phobias?
I wouldn’t say I have phobias, but I do have a healthy awareness of illnesses. I sometimes think about the importance of staying in control of my health. While I try to maintain a positive mindset and take care of my well-being, I know that uncertainty is a part of life. Overall, I prefer to stay informed and take reasonable precautions to feel comfortable.
Who is your girl crush and why? (OK to name a few if you want)
One of my girl crushes is Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. I admire her not only for her stunning beauty and modeling career but also for her poise and elegance. She has a unique style that blends sophistication with a relaxed vibe, and I appreciate how she carries herself with confidence. Additionally, I admire her business side, especially her work in the beauty industry with her own brand, which showcases her entrepreneurial spirit and is truly inspiring.
What’s the freakiest/weirdest thing someone has sent you via social media?
The freakiest thing someone has sent me via social media was an unsolicited direct message with a very detailed and bizarre fan fiction about me. It was flattering in a way, but also quite strange to read about myself in such an imaginative and personal scenario. It definitely caught me off guard and made me realize how creative (and sometimes odd) people can be online!
What is your motto in life?
My motto in life is “Stay true to yourself and trust the process.” I believe that authenticity and patience are key to navigating both personal and professional challenges. By staying grounded in who you are and believing that everything will unfold in its own time, you can achieve your goals without losing sight of what really matters.
What’s next for you? Any exciting projects on the horizon you can share with us?
What’s next for me is continuing to grow both personally and professionally. I have a few exciting projects on the horizon, especially in the business and fashion worlds. I’m also looking forward to expanding my work in beauty, with some collaborations that I’m really excited about. While I can’t share all the details just yet, I’m working on combining my passions in ways that will allow me to continue expressing myself creatively and pushing boundaries.
Stay tuned!
Finally, where would you like to be in five years?
In five years, I’d like to see myself continuing to evolve both personally and professionally. I envision growing my business ventures, especially in beauty and fashion, while staying true to my creative side. I’d also love to have a more balanced lifestyle, where I can focus on my passions while enjoying time with my loved ones and my Frenchie Van Gogh . Ultimately, I hope to be in a place where I’m proud of what I’ve built, continuing to push boundaries, and living a fulfilling, happy life.
STATUS UPDATE
FULL NAME: Sandra Imann
HOMETOWN: Miami
BORN: April 7, 1992
INSTAGRAM: @Imann_sandra
Photographer: Jorge ogalla @marbellaphotographer
Asistente fotografía: Javier rendom @javier_rendon_fotografia
Making: Juan Carlos Domínguez
Make up: Sonia alvarez. @sonyalvarezdom6
Peluquería: Soledad Matas @soledad_matas
Styling: @darsyland
PR: LSA @leo.alderman @lsapublications
For the full article grab the December 2024 issue of MAXIM New Zealand from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.
