How did you get started?
I started my Instagram account, @AustinFoodstagram, in May of 2014 while living in Houston. It ultimately brought me back to Austin, and paved the way for my future career in Social Media & Marketing. The account was a quick success with 20,000 followers in just over a year’s time. I knew it was something special, but had no idea the overall potential and brand I would come to build.
What is your job?
I’ve had many jobs since graduating from the University of Texas, from teaching to co-founding an influencer marketing tech company called Trend. Now I run my blog full-time, and I’m excited to have more time to dedicate to building the brand even further in Austin and beyond.
How do you ‘influence’?
There are many ways to use one’s influence, but most importantly you must build a community. A community that feels personally attached to your brand, and trusts your recommendations. This is number one, if you want to start a blog or even just a popular Instagram account.
Are there any downsides to being an ‘influencer’?
Of course, as with anything. Social media is known to only highlight the brightest and best moments, but there are many things that go on behinds the scenes when running a business as an influencer. Once you start monetizing your account outside of trade partnerships, you are now running a full-fledge business which requires legal documents, accounting, budgeting, scheduling, active outreach, etc. It’s a hustler’s game.
How do you edit your photos?
I shoot on an iPhone XS Max and edit using Snapseed by Google
What’s your FAVORITE Austin restaurant?
Emmer & Rye, Suerte is a close second
