Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica K.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have been a promotional specialist for ten years. I moved to Atlanta in 2008 where I attended and eventually graduated, from Clark Atlanta University. I have a Bachelor’s in Psychology – my goal at the time was to become a Child Psychologist or Counselor. After several years on hold, I found my way back to modeling and decided I didn’t want to do the desk job. I became self-employed in marketing, working different activations for various brands as well as curating purposeful events aimed towards my target market. I still wanted to work with the youth in a motivational aspect, so I started uLit Lifestyle, symbolized with selfie ring lights. Currently, THEERICAK.com is a lifestyle platform that incorporates fashion and marketing into a lifestyle.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Definitely not a smooth ride! There were times when I gave up because this couldn’t possibly be what God had in store for me. But the more I prayed about what I wanted, I just had to keep going. I didn’t have a place to call my own for a long time – almost four years altogether. So, I’m trying to figure out life while couch surfing. My advice would be to never stop working towards your goal. Every move you make, no matter how little, puts you one step closer. Create a vision board where you can physically see what you’re working towards then write down three steps to get you there. Then write steps for those steps. You have to be able to verbalize clearly what you want and what it takes to get there. Never would I think that I would be a full-time model/entrepreneur – there was no lane specifically for what I want to do so I created it. When people ask what do I do, I’m happy to reply “what don’t I do?”
what should we know about THEERICAK.com? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I am a brand in itself. A lot of the companies I freelance for a state “no tattoos, piercings” etc. They love the fact that I stand out, especially with my hair, but sometimes I stand out too much. I started THEERICAK.com because I wanted to show big brands that I could represent them in a professional manner by just being me. Most companies use an influencer like an artist or celebrity to be the face of their brand – who look just like me. But because I’m out in the field, on the ground level, it’s not acceptable. Now, I get the chance to represent brands such as apparel, liquor or technology on both sides. In the field and as an activation manager. I staff promotional models for events as well as curate my own for new brands or businesses looking to increase their traffic. I’m very proud of the fact that I am able to channel all of these into motivation for other young people going through the same self-identity crisis in their career. I meet a lot of actors and actresses or people in between jobs that are just waiting until it’s their time and the network I’ve gained affords me with a multitude of opportunities with whatever I choose to do in the future. I want to share that information so others can get a jump start on their future and skip the couch surfing.
Who do you look up to? How have they inspired you?
My mom, of course. The only thing she has ever asked me to do is do well. She’s my biggest supporter and a strong crutch for when I need it.
My friends are next; I know some phenomenal women and therefore grateful to be apart of their circle. Influence in all aspects is big for a career or relationship so if I’m surrounded by women that influence me positively, then that means I have nothing but positivity to give back.
Some social influencers I pay close attention to are Su Solo, Kye Alexis, and Micah Gianelli. From social life to modeling to fashion, these women are like my blueprint for the lane I want to be in.
And last but not least, Cardi B. 🙂 She is exactly who people should strive to be like as far being genuine goes. When you are yourself, people gravitate towards that and it makes everybody want to know you. Which in turn, is good for business.
Pricing:
- $100/hr for Photo/Video shoots
- Budget + 20% for staffing promotional models
Contact Info:
- Website: www.THEERICAK.com
- Email: info@theericak.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/theericak
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/THEERICAKcom-153516432084210/?timeline_context_item_type=intro_card_work&timeline_context_item_source=560795610&fref=tag
Image Credit:
Maurice Speaks
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