Instagram Influencer Spotlight On: Jessica Santini @bigcitylilblog

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

I am a freelance digital marketer specializing in web design and social media. I work from home in New York City, balancing my time between my clients, my blog, and raising my adorable Yorkshire Terrier, Joey Buttons (@JoeyButtons_Yorkie.) I recently married my boyfriend of 6 years, and we are playing house in the Financial District.

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

I believe in a beautifully balanced lifestyle full of great food, fashion, fitness, and fun. I like to post a combination of photos that inspire such a lifestyle. I do my best to make my gallery balanced and cohesive, so that when you look at it as a whole- it makes sense. I can’t help but also post photos of my beautiful city as I find that’s one of the best inspirations of all!

3) How did your Instagram name come about?

It’s named after my blog: “Big City Little Blog.” Originally, it was started as a food blog full or recipes, restaurant reviews, and food porn. It was called “Big City Little Kitchen,” which was inspired of by my shoebox of a kitchen in my first NYC apartment. It has since evolved into a lifestyle blog with a focus on food, fashion, fitness, and more.

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

I rarely use apps to edit my photos and try to rely on well-lit, quality images. I will alter the lighting, brightness, saturation, etc to optimize the image. Mostly this is done within the Instagram app, but sometimes I will use Photoshop. Then, I use my favorite filter: Gingham- but only at 50%- to give an etherial, light effect. I will throw in a Boomerang for fun, but I try to keep everything streamlined for a balanced, cohesive gallery.

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

My favorite instagrammer and blogger is @RosieLondoner. She inspires me because she lives a envious lifestyle but still presents herself in a humble and likable manner. Unlike many fashion and lifestyle bloggers, she comes across friendly and approachable. She is also an amazing cook and has the photos and recipes to prove it! She makes me want to grab a burger and rosé with her! I’m also a big fan of my puppy, @JoeyButtons_yorkie, but I’m clearly bias on that one.

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

My latest obsession is Rent the Runway Unlimited. You pay a small monthly fee to receive any 3 items (clothes, bags, jewelry) at a time. You can keep the items as long as you want and as you return them, you get to pick something new. It’s great for those who want to keep an updated wardrobe but hate clutter and textile waste. All the items are high-quality and they have tons of reviews from other users to help you order the right size.

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

I love connecting with other influencers. It’s great for me professionally because I get to discuss social media marketing techniques and share information. I find meeting other influencers incredibly inspiring as they are often creative, fun, entrepreneurial women.

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

I always like to experiment with a product of service so that I have a first-hand experience. If after testing it out I find it’s not my cup of tea, I politely decline the review. I only accept campaigns that make sense for my brand so I can leave positive and honest reviews. Furthermore, it’s important to tell the story in my own words and my own unique voice. People are smart, and they know when something is phony!

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

It’s extremely important! Social media is the modern day “word of mouth” so you have to offer real, original content. The internet is oversaturated with reviews, articles, and opinions, so it’s also important to be engaging and entertaining as you get your point across. People should feel a connection to you and you voice, so authenticity is of the upmost importance.

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

I like showing people how to use things in unique and interesting ways. The best part about partnering with brands is that they often show me something I wouldn’t have originally been drawn to, so the exposure to something new sparks my creativity and makes me think outside the box.

Topics:

• Animals & Pets
• Cooking
• Design
• DIY & Crafts
• Fashion
• Food & Drink
• Hair & Beauty
• Health & Fitness
• Travel

Country:

United States of America