Lori Leland

"I am delighted to have made so many new friends and be part of the incredible shopping at Ideal World"

Lori was born in the United States and grew up in the beautiful state of Colorado near the city of Boulder. Outdoor activities such as rafting and skiing were a huge part of her childhood. Lori moved to Las Vegas after graduating from university to become the spokesperson for a casino group that sent her traveling and promoting throughout the world. Loving anything that had to do with entertainment, she had a wonderful time appearing in print ads, TV and radio advertising and hosted live events for the casinos.

Living in Las Vegas was a thrill and while she was there, Lori began interviewing celebrities for an entertainment TV show that aired throughout the US as well as working in Los Angeles doing commercials and infomercials. At the same time, Lori pursued her passion for gadgets and electronics by conducting live technology presentations for major technology companies at conventions like the Consumer Electronics Show that takes place in Las Vegas every January.

Lori’s next stop was Dallas, Texas where she moved to co-host a weekly entertainment show and start up a modeling and talent business with a close friend. It didn’t take long before the Home Shopping Network in Florida contacted Lori to become a tech expert guest presenter. After 3 years as a guest, Lori was offered a full-time presenter position where she co-hosted the Sunrise morning show that aired in 90 million US households. After presenting for several years, Lori began working with Ideal World on the “USA Live” show in early 2008 which has been a highlight.

While in Florida, Lori met her future husband, Ken, a chef at a resort in St. Petersburg, Florida. Lori and Ken were married on August 29th of 2007. The duo enjoys cooking together (meaning Lori watches as Ken does most of it!) entertaining, enjoying friends and family, spending time outdoors (when it’s not too hot or they’re not dodging hurricanes in Florida!) and travel.

Q & A:

What did you do before IW?

I co-hosted a popular morning show in the States, worked as a spokesperson for many large companies and appeared in lots of commercials in infomercials.

Most embarrassing on-screen moment?

I hosted a very comedic show for a while so not much embarrasses me, but I remember working with an out-of-control fashion stylist who lifted my skirt on-air and flashed my knickers- I was mortified!

Tell us a secret

Although this is not really a secret, it’s something most people don’t know: neither my husband nor I have siblings. We are both “only” children.

What’s your idea of the perfect Sunday (when you’re not working)?

Leisurely waking up to a hot cup of coffee with my husband, meeting our family for brunch, a soothing afternoon bike ride, having friends over in the evening to grill outside on our deck and have some laughs- that’s a perfect day!

Which living person do you most admire and why?

I truly admire my parents who created a very loving home and continue to encourage me and my crazy ideas every day.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself / others?

In myself it is trying to please everyone and I find I have too much pride to ask for help. In others it is deceit.

Aside from property, what’s the most expensive thing you've bought?

Aside from my car, which is nearly paid for, my husband and I enjoy collecting gold coins.

What is your guiltiest pleasure?

Reality TV- I can’t get enough "American Idol!" I am also addicted to "Lost," "Heroes," and "Desperate Housewives!"

What keeps you awake at night?

I tend to worry about the health of my family.

How would you like to be remembered?

As a friendly and sincere person who had a zest for living and never met a stranger.

What is the most important lesson life has taught you?

Through ups and downs, adversity and joy, being positive will always pull you through!

Favourite IW/CC product?

Michael diCesare and Samy hair care, M. Asam skincare, jewellery, technology- there are simply too many to name!

Which phrase do you overuse?

"Well hello and welcome!" I don’t know where the "well" came from but it seems to have stuck in my head every time I start a show.

If you could travel back in time, which period would you visit?

King Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table and Camelot- true, historical figures or only heroes of legend? I would have loved to be alive to find out!