Today we’d like to introduce you to Lorane Rhoden.
Hi Lorane, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey started after University when I was at my first job and had no idea what to do. I’ve always loved Fashion and with a Degree in Communications, I wanted to find a way to sort of “marry” my love for Fashion and Writing and “Haute People” was created in 2011.
During this time, Blogging was still relatively new and I had no idea what to do so there were a lot of trials and errors and of course sleepless nights but with consistency and a strategic approach, I found my way and amassed quite a following.
This saw me joining numerous Facebook Groups, posting on Reddit and several other bookmarking sites that allowed the Blog Posts to reach a wider audience in different parts of the world. I also ensured that I was intentional and very selective with the events I went to as a Blogger and always ensured I was networking with the right people.
The rest as they say is history and the brand continues to grow since then.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has definitely not been a smooth path but with everything that occurred, I took it as a stepping stone and a lesson to get to the next stage of where I want to be.
The most obvious struggle is people not understanding what Blogging is/was and not taking it seriously, hence I was not always readily accepted until it became cool.
I remember a particular experience where I went to cover a Trunk Show and collaborated with a few brands and they were all receptive and respectful except for one lady. She said she didn’t “believe” in Blogs (as if it was a Religion) and refused to be interviewed or have her photo taken. I still left my card just in case. After the event (just in case). I ensured all brands were represented in the best way and the photos came out great and added all the right keywords. The same lady who refused to participate went on Google and saw my write-up on the Trunk Show and called to ask why she was excluded…lol.
Another challenge is people seeing Blogging as a “lesser than” version of Journalism and as a result, I’m not taken seriously. It’s always after the events when they see the amazing write-up and photos “pop-up” on Google that they kinda see Blogging as a serious career and always come back for a feature …. waaaaay after!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m most known for my work as a Lifestyle Blogger and also for being witty with Content Writing and Marketing.
I am most proud of my Blog Haute People that I considered a “figment of my imagination” that I took from my mind and Brough to life. It has been going strong since 2011 and I was able to curate amazing ever-green content, event photos and a Rolodex of Industry Professionals that are quite impressive.
My Blog Haute People has awarded me some of the most amazing opportunities such as covering New York Fashion Week, being nominated for a South Florida Blogger Awards in 2017 and 2018 in the Lifestyle Category and most recently being invited to Cover Paris Fashion Week in October 2021. The Blog has also allowed me to be invited to numerous exclusive events locally and internationally. Because of the success of the Blog,
I was fascinated with this new online world and wanted to learn more so I ventured off and explored Digital Marketing where I enrolled in a Digital Marketing Course and soon landed a job at a local Advertising Agency.
I love my job and was excited about this new world where I was able to express myself creatively and of course wear cute outfits to work!
The thing that sets me apart is the way I mix High Fashion with my Jamaican Culture and vibe — High Fashion is sometimes seen as uptight, but I’ve been able to infuse personality and even humour into the content I create.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I like that people here are always down for a good time and are genuinely living their best life! It always feels like a vacation and though things are serious at times, it feels light-hearted and fun. Going to South Beach is like being at a College Party that never ends.
I, of course love the weather and a different groups of people as it is so similar to life in Jamaica! It is always a vibe! I love the Cuban music blaring from bars and the way people get up and dance!
The things I like the least are Reptiles! Why are there so many snakes and Lizards! Oh my goodness! If there is anything I am afraid of, it has got to be Lizards and they are here a plenty just, chilling!
Pricing:
- Social Media Starter Package $550 per month
- Social Media Basic Package $750 per month
- Social Media Premium Package $1,100 per month
Contact Info:
- Email: hautepeople@yahoo.com
- Website: https://thehautepeople.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Haute-People-100831588999410
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/hautepeople
Image Credits
Lorane Rhoden
