VizSense - Blog - VizSense Vizionary: Rowda Baker

How did you find the inspiration to start your page and take the leap as a content creator?

I knew I always wanted to do something creative. All through my 20s--friends, family, and random people I see would come and ask me where I got my outfits. In 2017, I finally took the plunge and turned my Instagram into a content creator page.

What is your overall inspiration for your posts and Instagram feed?

I buy what I like and I don’t worry about trends. True style will stay. I like to believe my page reflects that. If I am feeling uninspired, I check out Pinterest or the Instagram explore page. I love finding new accounts especially the under 10K accounts.

How did you get your first brand sponsorship, and who was it with?

My first brand partnership was actually Waterloo Sparkling Water through VizSense! I am forever grateful for it and I can’t believe yall chose me! It’s funny because I discovered Waterloo about three months prior to working with them. I was already drinking their product! It worked out perfectly. I only take on brands that I like and personally use!

What are the biggest lessons you’ve learned working for yourself and creating your own personal brand?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that people will judge you no matter what so do what you love and don’t worry about it. You don’t need them. Don’t try and be someone else either. I’ve seen a few influencers straight up imitate someone else’s style. People will see through that!

What is your favorite part of being a content creator?

Meeting people whether they are bloggers or followers. I’ve met so many fellow bloggers in this industry and some are my closest friends now. I wouldn’t trade those relationships for anything! My style has really evolved during the years too. I found myself and my style. I love interacting with followers as well. Everyone has been really nice.

Who is your biggest inspiration in the industry and why?

I always look up to Claudia Graziano (claudiagraziano), the girls from SomewhereLately (somewherelately), and Erica Stolman (FashionLush) because they are authentic. I love how interactive they are with their followers too.

What do you wish people knew about influencers?

Not every influencer is the same. I’m not going to try and sell you something for the sake of commissions. I only post what I actually buy. I will never post things I don’t own!

Where do you see yourself, as well as the industry, within the next few years?

I worked full-time in Talent Acquisition for the past 8 years and loved it. I am currently unemployed (thanks COVID lol) but I hope to be in a company where I am able to grow! I hope to continue sharing what I love and about my life on my Instagram too.

What is the best piece of advice you have for people who want to build their own social media brand and get started in the industry?

Just do it. Start somewhere. You will hear some influencers say the market is saturated but I don’t believe that. I do believe Instagram makes it harder for the micro-influencers to get shown (algorithm myths) but that’s another topic.

OWN YOUR STYLE! Don’t change for anyone and be AUTHENTIC.