Today we’d like to introduce you to Isabella Doherty
Hi Isabella, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
It’s kind of a funny story! Back in college, I was doing eyelash extensions out of my dorm while working toward my business administration and management degree—just figuring things out. My best friend had just landed an internship and a job offer at two different marketing and PR agencies, but she was also managing social media for two small businesses—a hairstylist and a wine tour company. With her new opportunities, she didn’t have the time anymore, so she asked if I wanted to take over.
At first, I said no. Running my own social media was fun, but I wasn’t sure if I’d enjoy doing it for other people.
Fast forward a few weeks—we’re at a winery, a couple of glasses in, and she asks again. This time, I thought, why not? I took over the accounts, and before I knew it, I was hooked. I started getting referrals from family, friends, and clients, and soon enough, I realized it was time to trade in the lash extensions for social media management full-time.
What started as a casual why not moment turned into a career I love—helping small businesses grow through strategic and engaging social media. And I haven’t looked back since!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Definitely not a smooth road! One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that not every client is the right fit. It’s tempting to take on everyone who wants to work with you, but I’ve realized through experience – and plenty of mistakes – that you have to be selective. Having a good mentor to turn to when things feel like they’re falling apart has been very valuable, especially as a business owner.
As a business owner, you care the most about your business, so you naturally put the most into it. When something goes wrong, even if it’s an employee’s mistake, you have to take responsibility and apologize. You carry those problems home with you, sometimes losing sleep over them. And when a client leaves, it’s easy to overanalyze what went wrong, what you could have done better. As you grow, you start to let these things roll off more easily, but not letting them affect you at all? That wouldn’t be human.
In this industry – and many others, I’m sure – the key is consistency. Did your reel, the one you spent an hour scripting and recording, flop? Okay, time to pivot. You just keep going.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Unlike many social media agencies, I don’t believe in making clients pay an arm and a leg for services they don’t need. That’s why I focus on small and medium-sized businesses, offering customized solutions that fit their needs—not cookie-cutter packages stuffed with unnecessary extras. My goal is to give businesses exactly what they need, when they need it. And if they grow to the point where they need a larger firm with more resources? That’s a win in my book—mission accomplished!
How did I get to where I am today? A mix of support, persistence, listening, and constant pivoting. My mom has played a huge role in my journey—emotionally, by being my biggest cheerleader, and practically, by connecting me with potential clients and partnerships. Persistence has been key, whether it’s pushing to elevate my clients’ social media presence or showing up at networking events to expand my reach. Listening has been just as important. I’ve learned from others’ mistakes so I don’t have to make the same ones, and I’ve prioritized truly understanding my clients’ needs, goals, and challenges. And when something doesn’t work? I pivot, adapt, and find a better way.
What I want the world to know about LilliBell Digital Marketing?
We’re more than just a social media management company—we’re partners in growth. We genuinely care about the success of our clients and take pride in building strong, lasting relationships. At LilliBell Digital Marketing, your success is our success, and we’re always ready to go the extra mile to ensure your business stands out online. We believe in supporting local businesses, making social media effortless for our clients, and bringing creativity and strategy together for real results. If you’re looking for a team that gets it and truly cares, you’ve found us.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Honestly, my success comes down to two key things: doing an amazing job for my clients and being their biggest cheerleader. When my clients win, I win—that’s the ultimate goal. And here’s the twist: even though I run a digital marketing business, my biggest source of growth has been something old-school—word-of-mouth referrals!
All of my clients are local, which means I get to connect with them in real life—whether it’s through photoshoots, attending their events, or even using their services and products myself. This personal touch sets me apart because I’m not just a marketer behind a screen—I’m part of their community. And because of that, my clients are always recommending me to others.
So, my best advice? Build genuine relationships. Be present, be supportive, and make your clients feel like you’re truly invested in their success. Digital strategies are great, but nothing beats real connections. Word-of-mouth may sound old-fashioned, but trust me—it still works!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lillibelldigitalmarketing.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lillibelldigitalmarketing/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lillibelldigitalmarketing
Image Credits
Anna Dower Photography
