Just three years ago (in a week to be exact) I sat in front of my laptop contemplating my first blog post without any minor idea of what I was getting into, I just simply knew I loved all things related to fashion, beauty, and most importantly writing.
I always get so many questions regarding how I got started and my experiences thus far from it all. So, I was really excited to do something a little different, and dedicate a post that would help someone reading this in some way.
I have never been the most outgoing person, and writing was always my outlet to express myself best along with style and beauty. My style was always (and still is) the best type of way I can really showcase who I am. It's crazy how passion for certain things can really bring out the best in someone! My blog was created purely on wanting to inspire others through what I would now consider my talent. In no way did I ever believe this was an industry that could supply someone with so much experience, business ventures, and confidence in one self.
This is by far the most repeated question I always get asked. Why? Simply because of one word: commitment! We live in a society where commitment is rare to see (in so many aspects). We ALL wonder and urge to explore what is the magic that keeps others going. For me personally, it's always been the goals I set for myself and my business. Aspiring is free, and reaching your end goal is hard labor, but there is truly nothing better than knowing you accomplished something you always dreamt of. The Fashion Muse has made me believe in things bigger than I ever imagined, so that easily has given me the daily motivation to keep moving forward.
Make a "dream check list" (as I like to call it) and make it a point to check every goal off that list (no matter the time it takes you to achieve it). My goals keep me going, and being able to share my own inspiration to others who may not always see it within themselves.
I never imagined in any way that at the age of 23 I would be a business owner and be the boss of my own personal brand. I have always been a focused individual, but nonetheless ditzy! I honestly didn't think I'd ever be capable of being a business owner. I've learned throughout this whole industry that we are our own personal brand, and we need to always be considered as so.
Many people, and even companies in this industry (or any industry per say) will try to set a value on you. They will also try to make you believe what your worth is, but only you can determine that. Financially, investment in your brand is crucial. True story, when I first began blogging I would work for free on many occasions. You will NOT start getting compensated for your work since the start. Just like anything, you start from the bottom. I will always remember the days where my team was made up of my mother and I (she was my photographer, and pretty much everything else!) She would even sometimes buy me outfits so I could blog on.
Also, knowing your story and target is very important. What sets you apart? Think about that!
Networking is such an important aspect in any business today. Long nights of writing endless emails to pretty much every local venture and world wide brands is what I did on many countless occasions. I just wanted to pitch myself and my blog and in some way get a collaboration on my hands. I must say, I got many no's but there will be that one person, business, or brand that will see that potential in you (trust me on that). Tip: start local within your own city!
I quickly learned that you never really know who out there is admiring your work. A year into blogging and only 900 (or so) followers on social media at the time, a major Hispanic network - Univision wanted to meet me. Me? The girl with no followers (as I thought)....Yup! Me. Someone on their PR team had been an avid reader of my blog, and they genuinely liked the content I was creating. Following ISN'T everything. Brands and companies are getting smarter, and turning to those who are creating the raw content in contrast to those who are buying their following. Stay true to yourself!
As I always say, If you have to write an email to Anna Wintour, do it! You never know. Pitch yourself well, work hard endlessly, and most importantly trust your self and surround yourself with those who see the best in you.
Until next post,
Xo
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