Hi everyone,
Hope everyone is doing well and getting ready for summer!
This week, we’re featuring Candice (@candi_m_and_ms), who works as a plus-size fashion model and blogger. On top of that, she is the owner of @thekweenkloset & @kingkillection. Read on to learn more about her journey and how she shines and glows as an influencer.
Sections:
About Candice
Tips + Advice
Working with brands
About Candice
Tell us a little about your background. When did you start creating content? What got you to start?
I got more into content creation and when the pandemic hit. I have been working as a professional model for years now, so I had posted some content on my social media but not enough to label myself as an “influencer”. I was constantly looking for ways to continue connecting with the brands I love. What better way to promote myself other than social media, that’s when I decided to focus more on content creating to achieve my goals.
Do you see creating content as your full-time job or more of a hobby that you do in your free time?
I am a full-time model and an online boutique owner so I would say it is something that I would need to take the extra time to do it but I love creating art and quality content for my followers to look forward to!
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced or you are facing as a creator/influencer?
As a plus-size influencer, I think it’s hard to really establish being taken seriously by brands at times. Sometimes we are not seen as a product or brands demographic. But if over 60% of the women in the US average a size 16... then they are missing a lot of business. I also recently wrote an article in FabUPlus Magazine and on my blog talking about how Instagram tends to shadow ban curvy or plus-size related posts. Many hashtags are shadow-banned like #plussize or #curvy. So I try to make it a goal of mine to continue to vocalize this inequality within the social media and content creation world. We really need to see more diverse bodies, not just plus size humans.
Tips for other creators:
What are some of your favourite editing tools? (If you use them)
I love Photoshop Fix allows you to smooth and colour adjust anywhere you need to! I try not to edit my photos too much but I do also use a consistent filter over my photos to keep a uniform look on my feed.
What are some tips for creators who are just getting started?
Consistency is key! If you continue to post and love what you do brand will see you. You never know who is waiting to see your post one day. You will inspire more people than you would ever imagine. Definitely keep up with your hard work!
Do you have any specific goals set for yourself for the coming months?
I have TONS of goals set and things to do in the next few months, you’ll just have to follow me on Instagram to see more! Awards shows, New York Fashion Week, Book Deals, you name it!
How do you balance your personal and work life?
As a single mother, it can be difficult sometimes but I try to schedule content creation days. I’ll shoot almost 3-4 weeks worth of content at a time so I have something to post. Then if I book anything else in between that it makes the pressure to create less stressful!
How did you “learn” the ways of content creation? Are there any resources you see as absolutely necessary?
I would say just to follow people and learn from them. If you see someone doing well on Instagram or with content creation, watch them. I always say, “Hang around millionaires and you’ll learn how to be one!”. I’m currently in the process of writing an ebook about Instagram and building your brand. Stay tuned to use that as a necessary resource soon!
What kind of advice do you have for creators who are not seeing any progress or success?
I would say to maybe change your focus. If something isn’t working don’t do it. Maybe it’s not your niche you thought. That’s okay! Try to post a variety of things, or even ask your followers what else do they want to see from you! We love audience participation!!
Working with brands:
What have you found to be the biggest challenge in working with brands?
Sometimes I worry that my content is all going to look exactly the same and I want to create unique content for each brand. No one is yet to complain so I think I’m doing just fine!
What brands have you worked with in the past? What are some that you would like to work with?
I’ve worked with Lane Bryant, Oral Essentials, Amazon, Publix, Rebdolls, Kelly’s Kloset, Mac Duggal, Alpine Butterfly Swimwear, Big Fig Mattress, Blowfish Shoes, and SOOOO many more! I would love to work with more local brands and artisans to promote sustainable fashion options!
Love,
Corcus Team
If you are interested in being part of this series, please email creator@corcus.io.