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April Showers
Bring May Flowers

Somehow, it’s May. The days are getting longer, the weather’s getting warmer, and as we wrap up a busy music festival season, we are headed for a month filled with big cultural moments.

Not only is May AAPI Heritage Month and home to Cinco De Mayo, Mother’s Day, and Memorial Day, the month also marks a prime time to start thinking ahead and planning out your summer content strategy.

With summer right around the corner, look to DBA talent for some content inspiration:

Whether you’re showcasing summer fashion trends, sharing delicious recipes for backyard BBQs, or capturing sun-drenched landscapes, there’s no shortage of content opportunities to engage your community and get them excited for the warmer weather.

Team DBA

New Signs
Aisha Ruperto

Aisha Ruperto, known as FoodGotMeWasted, has rapidly emerged as a prominent figure in the food content creation scene, gaining over 1.3 million followers in just three months. She started honing her culinary skills at age 15, working in restaurants before transitioning those talents to social media. Her standout features include not only her exceptional knife skills but also her confidence and genuine presentation of cooking realities, which resonate deeply with her audience. Currently based in Illinois, Aisha is balancing her burgeoning social media career with her academic pursuits as a senior in college, preparing for her board exams to become a dental hygienist.

Krystiana Tiana

Krystiana Tiana, a mother of five, cares for a diverse range of children, from teenagers and toddlers to a precious newborn baby boy. Her journey took a turn in August 2023 when she celebrated the arrival of her newborn son while also bidding an emotional farewell to her 18-year-old son as he embarked on a Marine Corps journey. Krystiana's content weaves a heartfelt narrative, rich with significant milestones and candid moments that form a genuine connection with her audience, currently having over 10M followers across all platforms. Within the family and lifestyle space, she stands out as a top converter. Her unique family dynamic has not only captivated viewers but also positioned her as a sought-after collaborator for esteemed brands, including Disney, Verizon, Hasbro, Posh Peanut, and more.

Kylia & Francesca

Kylia and Francesca are the fashion and lifestyle creators behind Babes on Trend. Based in New Albany, Ohio, the sister duo have quickly built a loyal following by consistently sharing their love for fashion, beauty, and the everyday moment. The two continue to balance their respective full-time jobs in sales while also building strong relationships with their favorite brands, participating in brand trips, attending NYFW, and traveling the world together. Their audience is known to love them for their strong bond, their own respective style, and their personal take on all things fashion and lifestyle.

Made By Musashi

Made by Musashi is the joint account of Jasmine and Musashi, a couple living in NYC, who are sharing an inside look at what it’s like to be a chef both in and outside of Michelin kitchens. Musashi grew-up in the restaurant industry – his parents have owned a sushi restaurant for 30 years – and he’s continued in their footsteps as the current Sous Chef at Restaurant Yuu (1 Michelin) which is a Japanese-French fine dining restaurant in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Previously, Musashi worked at Blue Hill Stone Barns (2 Michelin stars, featured on Netflix's Chefs Table), Blue Hill NYC (1 Michelin) and Atoboy (#30 on Pete Wells’ 100 NYC Best Restaurants, James Beard Award Winner). While Jasmine doesn’t work in the restaurant industry, she films and shares Musashi's industry tips from the lens of a curious home cook, and shows the small ways people can elevate their everyday meals at home. Their various viral series that are deeply rooted in culinary education has garnered them over an 11% ER on Instagram.

Mia Martini

Mia Martini is a 22-year-old lifestyle creator with an affinity for beauty, haircare and well-being. Mia is an advocate for self-care and enjoys sharing her personal routines and experiences that promote physical and mental health. She prides herself on being authentic & relatable and not taking things too seriously. Mia's zest for living her best life, along with her advice on navigating life's adventures as a recent graduate living in Miami contributes to her humorous and relatable content. Her infectious personality and best friend vibes make her familiar and relatable to watch, as indicated by her loyal following which is growing exponentially. Mia has successfully partnered with brands such as Kiehl’s, First Aid Beauty Jo Malone and L’Oreal.

Samantha Varvel

Samantha Varvel is a NYC-based creator whose passion for creativity runs deep, cultivated by a lifelong dedication to artistry that began in the school art room. Her innate drive to curate, refine personal style, transform living spaces, seek beauty in experiences, and capture it all through photography defines her journey. Through her website and social media channels, Samantha showcases her diverse interests and creative endeavors. What started as an escape from corporate life has blossomed into her full-time pursuit. Having been raised in Tokyo and experienced life in diverse international cities like Singapore and London, Samantha's upbringing has enriched her perspective, allowing her to collaborate with esteemed brands such as Mackenzie Childs, Vera Bradley, Mark and Graham, and many more.

Sara Walker

Sara Walker (StyledSara) is a Seattle born content creator known for sharing her viral styling tips and fashion content across Instagram and TikTok. She remains a month-over-month Revolve top seller driving sales most notably in the denim and dress categories. Sara has worked in the fashion industry for 8+ years in roles across marketing, buying, merchandising and styling. She has brought her knowledge of the fashion industry to her social media platforms and gained a following for her expertise. She has recently partnered with brands such as David Yurman, G. Label by goop, Skims, J.Crew, and Veronica Beard. Sara is currently based in Los Angeles.

Vanessa Gyimah

Vanessa is a professional makeup artist who has been featured in Buzzfeed and Essence Magazine. The former MAC cosmetics artist quickly become a beauty content creator. Her fun and empowering makeup videos create an inclusive space for women to feel confident and comfortable wearing any type of make up. She rose to fame based on her “365 Look” concept. The idea is tied to her mission to create an everyday beautiful makeup look that works for any occasion. From “soft glam” to “bold and colorful,” she is passionate about discovering new beauty products that make women smile and feel beautiful from the inside and out.

Yvette Garcia

Yvette is a content creator specializing in fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and family content, based in Los Angeles. Her career began in New Mexico before she returned to LA to pursue more opportunities in the industry. Over time, she has expanded her network and forged partnerships with brands like Amazon, Kohl’s, Edelman, and more. Currently, Yvette is working on various projects including a podcast and a children’s book.

Beauty Power Moves

In February, beauty creators Glamzilla and Lisa Joy drove high earned media value (EMV) in the beauty category. As viral beauty tutorialists, the pair have established themselves as trusted sources for organic beauty product reviews.

This trust is reflected in their ability to create content that resonates across the community. After their respective beauty reviews went viral on TikTok, Glamzilla garnered $364,000 in EMV for Mac Cosmetics and Lisa brought $423,400 for Fenty Beauty and Rare Beauty each.

Glamzilla and Lisa exemplify the power of authenticity and community in driving EMV. Their ability to connect with their audience, share personal experiences, and offer valuable beauty insights has enabled them to cultivate highly engaged communities. By creating organic (and viral!) content that resonates across audiences, they boost brand awareness and foster long-term brand and community loyalty.

Talk about a Power Move!

Beauty Partnerships

Glamzilla and Mikayla Nogueira sat down with Glossy to chat about all things beauty brand partnerships.

The two beauty creators were featured in Glossy+’s Research 2024 Influencer Index as creators who have harnessed the power of their influence and online community to garner incredibly high levels of engagement for beauty brands. Stephanie and Mikayla discussed the importance of authenticity, value alignment, creative freedom, and true partnership when it comes to creating a social media campaign that resonates with an increasingly more aware consumer.

As for the future of brand partnerships in the beauty space? Both agree that highlighting niche communities, focusing on connecting with local communities IRL, and building strong, long-term relationships with brands are the ways forward.

Talent News

Aimee Song and Jacopo Moschin are the cover stars of Brides’ Engagement Issue and share a glimpse into their decade-long love story. The newly engaged couple reveals how they’re approaching relationship milestones differently and discuss everything from their first meeting in Morocco to their romantic Paris proposal to wedding planning while expecting their second child.

Jackie Aina launched the long-awaited FORVR MOOD Fine Fragrance Collection. The beauty entrepreneur is expanding her lifestyle brand into the fragrance territory and just released four incredible scents. Known for her impeccable taste in all things luxury, she spent the last four years perfecting the different formulas. So whether you want to smell like red velvet and raspberries or spiced rum and vanilla bean, Jackie has you covered across scent categories.

The Bento Box Queen, Sulhee Jessica Woo, announced her debut cookbook. “Let’s Make Some Lunch” features over 150 recipes for home cooks of all experience levels. From breakfast-inspired lunches to sandwiches and wraps to dinner “leftovers”, you can now learn how to create Jessica’s signature lunch dishes that are sure to delight!

Xandra Pohl is joining the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Rookie Class of 2024! After making her debut at the Miami Swim Week runway show last year, Xandra joined the SI Swimsuit team in Belize for her rookie photoshoot and shared a glimpse into life as a DJ and content creator. Her infectious energy makes her the perfect addition to a dynamic Rookie class and you’re going to want to keep her on your radar as she conquers another exciting year.

Olivia Tiedemann launched her new weekly digital series, Bite Me. For the first episode, Olivia makes fellow DBA talent, Fabrizio, a killer burger. Join Olivia each week as she teams up with other chefs and food creators to whip up some truly mouthwatering dishes.

Carissa Stanton's debut cookbook “Seriously, So Good” released this month and is ranked at #2 on New York Times' bestsellers list. Filled with 100 simple, delicious, and approachable recipes for every occasion, the cookbook will become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting dinner parties for friends or cooking for yourself after work, Carissa’s fun and stress-free approach to cooking will have you coming back for her recipes time and time again.

Patrick Starrr is IPSY’s May Icon Box Curator. The ONE/SIZE founder curated his top makeup and skincare products for full glam from prep to finish. With 8 full-sized products valued at up to $350, the box is a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their makeup looks with Patrick-approved products.

Alexa Santos is the face of Korbel for National Brunch Month with in-store activations in Winn Dixie, Florida. The chef and food creator was tapped to develop brunch recipes featuring Korbel Rose.

Nazanin Kavari teamed up with renowned makeup artist Makeup by Rubina to host an exclusive masterclass in LA. Sponsors for the event include Garnier, One/Size, KISS lashes, Glow Recipe, Too Faced and more.

Leena Snoubar partnered with Amazon The Drop to release a new collection just in time for Eid this month. For her third partnership with Amazon, the fashion and lifestyle influencer designed elegant dresses and matching abayas to elevate your spring style for Eid celebrations.

Olivia Ponton partnered with REEF to release a collection of bright, cushioned and water-friendly sandals that are perfect for trips to the beach or boating.

Celebrated interior designer Brigette Romanek created a stunning collection of rugs and pillows with Loloi Rugs that are sure to elevate any space. Chic minimalism at its finest, the exclusive collaboration features four distinct rug lines and an assortment of complementary throw pillows.

Whitney Port is the new creative director of High Confectionary. The fashion and lifestyle entrepreneur will be responsible for building community and contributing to overall branding for the female-founded all-natural gummies brand. On top of strategy, she’ll also be hosting brand events, sharing exclusive behind-the-scenes on her socials, and leading expansion into other product categories.

Fashion and lifestyle creator Ella Rose curated the dreamiest collection with Revolve. From cute beach-ready accessories to dainty coquette tops to flowy maxi dresses, the edit features the perfect pieces for your summer wardrobe.

In the Press
UTA’s Digital Brand Architects Signs 12 Culinary TikTok Stars, Including Jordan Farnum and the Grill Dads
View on Variety
Olivia Ponton Talks Designer Jeans, Calvin Kleins & More
View on WWD
Karalea Pior shares how she changed the way she reminds kids to use their manners
View on GMA
Drew's News; Cooking With Grill Dads
View on Drew Barrymore Show
Beauty Tutorialists Are Still the Most Earned Media Value-driving Influencer Group for Beauty Brands
View on WWD
40 Under 40: Celebrating Southern Nevada talent - Jessica Woo
View on Las Vegas Sun
Glossy+ Research 2024 Influencer Index: The level of engagement top influencers can harness for brands
View on Glossy
Woman Who Asked Travis Kelce Viral 'Kiss, Marry, Kill' Question Reacts to Taylor Swift's TTPD Lyric
View on People
Why Everyone Keeps Telling You to Talk About Your Feelings
View on Men's Health
Luis Arturo Sánchez
View on Singulart
Jackie Aina’s FORVR Mood Is A Charge To Live And Do Business By Design
View on Forbes
Justine Martillotti’s Dinner Party Playbook
View on PopSugar
Industry News
What Gen Z Wants From Influencer Marketing
View on AdAge
AI Evolution: Transitioning From Creator Economy To Editor Economy
View on Forbes
It’s Not Just You, Influencer Collaborations Are Everywhere
View on Coveteur
TikTok Shop’s Era of Super Subsidies Is Ending
View on Wired
The Revolution Will Be Socialized
View on AdAge
LinkedIn betting it can take on TikTok and Instagram in influencer marketing
View on CNBC
New data reveals which influencer revenue streams are growing the most, from affiliate marketing to tipping
View on Business Insider
Revolve Invented Influencer Marketing as We Know It. Now It’s Pulling Back.
View on Business of Fashion
The WNBA Draft Was the Biggest Beauty Spectacle of the Year So Far
View on Allure
Dear Media Shows & Highlights

Given her vast array of expertise, Gabby Windey takes her guests on a deep dive into the topics today’s audiences care about: dating, sexuality, health & mental health plus a healthy dose of pop culture shit talk.

Each episode, Gabby will be interviewing guests with the ultimate goal to break down walls and get beyond the typical interview questions— “So tell us about yourself” doesn’t actually tell us anything about who the person really is- does it?! Instead, she skips the surface and plunges right into the core. Drawing from her experience as an ICU nurse, NFL cheerleader, and being The Bachelorette- Gabby is able to bring a unique perspective to each conversation. With discussions covering serious and relatable topics but approached from relatability and heart (along with Gabby’s wicked sense of humor— of course).

Join Caroline Baudino, of Instagram’s 'Shop with Caroline', as she fearlessly tackles life's challenges on her new podcast, COMING IN HOT. In a world filled with mom, wife, daughter, and the list goes on responsibilities, Caroline inspires women to reclaim the vibrant, unstoppable version of themselves. Turning the unmentionable into an engaging conversation and making self-discovery and empowerment a stylish journey, get ready to rediscover your best self with Caroline. Get Up. Get Dressed. Let’s Do This!

Join best friends, Kristen McAtee and Alex Koot as they navigate the ups and downs of life. Coming from opposite upbringings, these 20 something-year olds bring different perspectives to the table. Each week they share personal experiences about various topics, and then in the next episode they read your stories and answer your questions. They're playing in the deep end and the shallow end... so grab your floaties 'cause it's about to get WAVY, BABY!
No Limits. No Filters. Real ODDvice.