Instagram Influencer Spotlight On: Christina Grasso @thepouf

1) Tell us a little about yourself. What are you doing now and where do you come from?

I am a fashion and beauty writer and social media consultant, as well as a mental health advocate and avid volunteer with organizations such as Project Heal, Lower Eastside Girls Club, New York Cares and I Am That Girl. I live in New York, NY but am originally from a small town in western PA called Sharon.

2) What are your topics of interest? What do you post on Instagram the most?

Beauty, fashion, activism, and humor have always been my passions, and I try to weave those interests with snippets of inspiration gleaned through my personal journey of recovery from an eating disorder which has really inspired me to be the best person I can be, and to pay forward the kindness and support I have received over the years.

3) How did your Instagram name come about?

In high school and college I always teased my hair into a large bouffant, so people started calling me Pouf and it just stuck!

4) What are some apps you use to edit your photos? Share with us your photo-editing routine!

I prefer my photos to be as authentic as possible so will usually just play up the lighting and contrast in Afterlight.

5) Any Instagrammers whom you really like? Which Instagrammer inspires you the most?

So many! It’s such a great space to find inspiration. I really enjoy following all of my friends’ adventures, as well as @thecollecteur, @glossier, @tasteofstreep, and @beautyisboring_ for their impeccable content. At the moment I am most inspired by @sophiabush, @iamthatgirl, and @the12ishstyle who do really important work and really put forth some seriously great vibes.

6) If there’s one thing your fellow Instagrammers just gotta try now, what’s it gonna be?

I think this period of time is really interesting because I feel like many of us are really – finally – starting to embrace our authenticity and imperfections. It makes me so happy when I see others ‘gramming photos sans Facetune and all that stuff, and I think now is as good of a time as ever to really own the things that make us unique, as cheesy as that might sound.

7) What’s your favorite part about being an influencer?

I love being able to use what platform I have as a force for good. Social media can get ugly, but on the other hand it lends such a powerful opportunity to pass along positivity and love to one another.

8) What are some of your top tips to brands for running campaigns? How do you maintain authenticity?

In my experience the most successful campaigns have been those born from real passion and creativity. It’s important to take risks; that’s how we grow! Devising and implementing a well-organized plan while allowing space for organic growth and improvisation is a tricky but important balance.

9) What would your advice be on the importance of quality and original content?

I think it’s so crucial to find one’s voice and style and really stick to it, without being contrived. Don’t overthink it unless it’s something you wouldn’t want your Mom or prospective employer to see! In other words, don’t try too hard, be yourself, and also, credit your source when applicable.

10) What do you like best about partnering with brands?

Brand partnerships are a wonderful opportunity for collaboration. There is always more to learn and it is through working together that we discover new and creative ideas and perspectives.