Onch as a 'BFF' contestant in 2008, and now, as a popular jewelry designer.
When Onch told MTV.com in 2008 that his favorite color was "rainbow," he'd said it all. The Hacienda, Calif., native had more than a colorful personality; he had a penchant for accessories and outfits that would make a kaleidoscope cry out in envy. Onch was a character through and through, and he quickly became someone Paris Hilton could depend on while competing for her friendship on the first season of "Paris Hilton's My New BFF." Things weren't all Technicolor roses, though.
While Onch generally sat in Hilton's good graces, his fellow competitors didn't always hold him in as high esteem, and after he was voted one of the "fakest" in the house, Hilton eliminated him from the competition. Still, she sent him off with a "TTYS," rather than the standard "TTYN," which translated to "See you soon, bitch."
Now, Onch's jewelry line, OnchMovement, is in high demand in the weird, wide world of Hollywood, and by some definite A-listers. Remember Nicki Minaj's infamous pink drumstick necklace? Yeah, that was Onch's piece. His website is loaded with food-for-jewelry in every conceivable hue or shade--lime green pretzels and the perfectly portioned wearable pizza slice are the new floating diamonds, we hear.
Below, check what the vibrant MTV alum told Remote Control and see his recipe for the perfect piece of jewelry. Plus, follow his Twitter account for the latest in the design world!
How did you wind up on “BFF?"
I was out at some bar when the casting agent saw me and asked if I would be interested in being on the show. At first I said no, but after thinking it over, I thought that shooting a TV show would be a super fun experience. With that and my extreme love of Paris, I decided to do it, and the rest is MTV history!
What were some memorable moments from your time on the show?
The whole experience was like living in a fun sorority house full of hot, crazy girls (all of them crazy and some of them hot). Facing one of my extreme fears, heights and roller coasters, was a memorable life moment for me. The roller coaster challenge was literally my nightmare come true--I still get the chills thinking of that day.
Did you expect to be eliminated when you did, or that being considered "fake" by some other contestants would ultimately lead to you going home?
I never expected to be eliminated. I think it was a shock to everyone in the house. I always knew in my heart I was being genuine, so I was so confused when I was put up for elimination. I think a lot of the other contestants that called me fake were just playing the game and trying to do whatever they could to sell each other out and win. I wasn't willing to stoop that low. I was just being myself: outrageous, eccentric and fun!
What's Paris like in person? Have you kept in touch with her since the show?
To me, Paris is like the Hollywood big sister I never had. She was the one that introduced me to the world of Hollywood and taught me how to live within it by being grateful and classy but still having fun! We still keep in touch--she sends me invites to her parties and events, and of course I am and always will be there to support my girl.
What immediately followed the show for you, both in a personal and professional sense?
After the show, I did a few months of traveling for club and event appearances, but I knew that wasn't my passion. I am a designer and had always been designing accessories even before the show, so I decided to focus back on that. When I did, I realized that what I am best at doing is designing and creating unique, fun and innovative jewelry.
What inspires you to create such unique pieces?
Hollywood starlets and the entertainment world have been a great inspiration--the "Meat-lace" was inspired by Lady Gaga's Meat Dress. I love attention, and I know I'm not the only one, so I figured I would create designs for people who also love to get attention!
Where did the idea for Nicki Minaj's pink chicken wing come from?
The Pink Fried Chicken Wing necklace was an idea I had and designed specially for Nicki. I was listening to her songs and lyrics for a clue to what she might like. I heard a line from Britney Spears' "Till the World Ends" remix, in which Nicki says "I ain't talkin' poultry when I say this chicken's fried," so a fried chicken wing necklace seemed like the perfect fit. But, of course, it had to be a pink fried chicken wing cause that’s "Barbie food"...and Nicki is the Head Barbz!
I am truly grateful for her love and support. It takes a very special talent and person to be able to rock my jewelry with pride, and Nicki is just the most perfect muse.
What are some of your most popular pieces, and what can fans expect in upcoming collections?
The signature Onch Pretzel is always the most popular piece! The Bacon Necklace, Ice Cream Swirl Necklace, Lollipops and the Meat-lace are for sure best sellers and customer favorites. There are lots of fun collaborations coming in 2012 and fun surprises being unveiled as early as January. I am so excited, I can barely contain myself!
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