Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Browne.
Hi Jessica, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Everyone calls me Jess. I am a plus-size beauty influencer and food blogger based in Marietta, Ga. I was born and raised in NYC. In 2018, I moved to Marietta, Georgia, to accept a position as an executive chef in Atlanta, Georgia. Prior to this, I spent over 15 years in the food and hospitality industries.
When I lost my job due to the COVID-19 shutdowns in 2020, I began this journey. During the pandemic’s tough times, I turned to makeup as a coping mechanism. During this time, I made the decision to start creating content and writing beauty reviews in order to earn beauty necessities that I couldn’t afford, as well as extra cash.
This is when I realized how much I enjoy creating content and everything on social media. So I decided to make a career out of it and launched my own brand. I was able to fulfill my dreams of becoming a plus-size beauty influencer and food blogger after staying focused for the past two years.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It wasn’t an easy journey. I made a lot of mistakes and missteps that I had to learn from. But these mistakes helped me create the strategies that I have in place today. Along the way, I learned to put the “social” back into social media. Social media is about connecting with other amazing creatives. Connecting with other creatives is what makes this even more enjoyable.
One of my biggest mistakes was allowing imposter syndrome to stifle my growth in the beginning. I struggled to stay consistent because I didn’t feel as confident as bigger content creators, especially since I was so new to the industry. I had to constantly remind myself that I belonged in this space and push myself to be consistent. My community’s support has also been invaluable in overcoming this obstacle.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a plus-size beauty influencer, content creator, and food blogger. I love showcasing vibrant colors and energy through my content, whether it’s food or beauty. I’m known for creating high-energy videos, with fun and quirky transitions. I am also known for my work as a chef.
What distinguishes me from others is my enthusiasm for genuine connections made through content!
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice to those just starting out is to stay focused on your own path. Don’t compare yourself to others because comparison steals joy. One thing to remember about social media is that everything happens at its own pace, so you just have to be patient to see results.
One thing I wish I had known when I first started out is how critical it is to have plans and strategies in place for everything, from creating to engaging. This would have saved a lot of time, energy, and headaches.
My final piece of advice is to have fun with it! Remember to include the ‘social’ in social media and make connections you value. If you make creating content a task and/or a chore, I believe you will experience burnout and want to quit. Remember to make content that you enjoy.
Contact Info:
- Website: instagram.com/aphrocentriceats
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jess_theplushbeauty/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jesstheplushbeauty
- Twitter: twitter.com/jtheplushbeauty
- Other: tiktok.com/@jess_theplushbeauty
