Instagram alone has reached 600 million monthly active users. Over 400 million of those, use Instagram every day. That means a lot of earned media value for brands and a hell of a lot of opportunity for bloggers, fashionistas, creatives, and influencers to make this platform into a money-making business. Meet Natalie aka Instagram’s @Natalieleeish whose lifestyle surrounds, beauty, brains, fashion and fitness.
Where does your style savvy come from, and where do you get your inspiration?
NL: My style and inspiration come from a mix between what I have seen on someone else, either in real life or online, and my own individual ideas. I like to mix different styles together, like sexy and cute, sassy and cool etc., and that’s the core of my style.
When did you start blogging/social media, and what was your motivation for getting started?
NL: In the very beginning, I used social media to keep in touch with my family and friends. It wasn’t until April 2019 that I opened up my Instagram to the public with the goal of gaining social media experience to be more eligible for marketing jobs that I wanted to apply to. Once I saw the traction and community that I was slowly starting to build, I realized my Instagram could become more than just “social media experience”; It could become a side hustle that potentially could become my main hustle. That’s where my motivation comes from now.
Who is your primary audience, and what do you think keeps them coming back to your gram?
NL: My primary audience are the millennial’s (people around my age), both females and males. I like to think I have a cool style and live a certain lifestyle people look up to, but who knows what the real reason is.
What have been your keys to success?
NL: I would say my consistency, quality of photos, and engagement with my followers have had a huge effect on my success. I post every day and make sure I respond to everyone’s comments on my posts (unless they’re inappropriate). When people take the time out of their day to respond to my post, I do my best to take the time out of my day to acknowledge their comment, whether it’s by “liking” or “replying” back. I have also done a lot of research when it comes to Instagram growth strategies (hashtags, geotags, tagging brands, timing, consistency etc.) that I am utilizing every day. I am still learning new strategies and tricks to this day – you never stop to learn!
How do you find balance in between work and social media and your personal off time?
NL: Time management is key! It can be tough at times, not going to lie! I work a full time job, have a dog and a husband, so I have to plan out when I’m going to take pictures and also set aside time throughout the day to work on my Instagram while also devoting time to my little family at home. Then I also need to make time for the gym and the much needed “me-time”, so it can be a lot. Ultimately, it all comes down to time management and how you prioritize what’s more important to you.
In what way does being a multicultural and international fashionista and blogger help you connect with your fans?
NL: My followers are from all over the world and they might feel more connected to me since I tap into multiple ethnicity, cultures, and styles that they relate to.
Do you see yourself as an “influencer”, and if so, what does that mean to you?
NL: Hmm.. I didn’t for the longest time! Then, I started to notice that what I wore or what I said had an impact on my followers. They listened and cared about my opinions, which was when I started to think of myself as an “influencer”. This, to me, means that I have people who look up to me, and I want to set a good example. I’m all about a balanced lifestyle, working hard to achieve your goals, and have the confidence in yourself to do so. You may not achieve everything you want in life, but if you don’t try and work hard for it, you definitely won’t.
If you could have a collaboration through social media with any brand, who would you pick and why?
NL: I would love to work with Gymshark! I already have a few leggings and tops from them, and their quality and fit are exceptional. They also have a very similar style to mine, so I could basically wear 90% of what they make.
How do you stay full of energy throughout the day?
NL: I’ve always had a lot of energy, it’s part of my personality. Therefore, I don’t really have an answer as I’ve always just been this way… I think when you have goals and you’re motivated to achieve them; you get energized by working towards them.
General words of wisdom you live by?
NL: Hard work pays off.
Do you have any upcoming events or announcements you wish to share?
NL: Stay tuned and follow my Instagram to see what I have in store!
