Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Lewandowski.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My foodie and influencer Instagram account were started on a whim – about 5 years ago. I started writing for a website called HedonistShedonist.com. I would go to restaurants and events in Chicago, IL and write reviews, so I had plenty of yummy photos to post. The website covers 8 major U.S. cities, including Miami. Fast forward to today and I’m the Lead Editor for the Chicago chapter of Hedonist Shedonist, my Instagram (@chiknwingqueen) has over 8k followers. I have my feet dipped in a few outlets for my freelancing photography, blogging, and recipe development career. I can only go up from here!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
My biggest struggle has been learning what my qualities and online aesthetic should be. Just like it takes years for an artist to find what techniques they’re particularly good at, it has taken me years to discover what makes me stand out from all the other “foodies” and influencers on Instagram. I’m still learning about myself and I think it will be a continuing journey.
My best advice is to keep going. Especially when it comes to social media, your success will not likely happen overnight. Don’t expect your following to grow by the hundreds instantly. It is best to be true to who you are, and don’t give up just because not everyone is immediately seeing your potential. Keep your head up at all times and just keep going.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with @chiknwingqueen – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
My Instagram, @chiknwingqueen, showcases my favorite places to eat and some of my best work I do for clients. I develop recipes from home for a variety of businesses, including diet apps, small entrepreneurs and family owned operations. I also write restaurant and event reviews, so I always have a drool-worthy photo of my experiences to share with my followers.
What I’m most proud of is my brand is completely self-started. It’s just me doing all the work I do. Collaborators have loved working with me and we tend to get along very well. I think keeping my business as close to one-on-one interaction as possible has been an important part of my success so far.
There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
I suggest to always be educating yourself. Find others who are doing what you want to do and learn what has made them successful. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions! Message some of your favorite influencers with your questions, and see if they’ll offer you any advice.
For networking, it’s very important to stay active in your social media community. You won’t get by with just liking a few posts every so often. You have to make friendly connections every single day. Even a simple “hey, I love this picture you posted! I’ll have to try that restaurant some time”, will do wonders.
Contact Info:
- Email: chiknwingqueen@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chiknwingqueen/
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
