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Yes, it's the holidays already.
According to Caitlin Covington, our resident queen of fall and the face of Christian Girl Fall, it’s officially PSL season.
As we dive deeper into the holiday season, the social media landscape continues to transform. From cozy décor inspiration to delicious holiday recipes, we’ll begin to see how food, family, and home influencers will play an increasingly bigger role in the holiday content.
For the average consumer, it’s still too early to be thinking about the upcoming holidays, but for a content creator or a brand? It’s almost too late. Once social platforms become over-saturated in November and December, it’ll get harder for creators and brands to stand out and carve their niche in the content market. Activating holiday campaigns early is important for creators and brands alike as it ensures they can fully capitalize on the festive season’s potential. Not only does it provide a space for them to build anticipation and use that content to engage their audiences, it also allows them to adapt their strategies based on feedback.
Get ready to prioritize holiday content and take a look at what’s coming down the pipeline.
You asked, we answered.
Curious about how influencers skyrocket to fame or the inner workings of the creator economy? In this new segment of our newsletter, we're answering all the commonly asked questions you may have about the dynamic world of influencers and the creator economy. Whether you're an aspiring content creator, a curious enthusiast, or a brand looking to tap into influencer marketing, we've got you covered.
What are the benefits of having management?
In addition to having a team behind you handling those pesky pitches and your never-ending inbox, you're constantly tapped in with experts across the industry. There is collective access, intel, and insight that you and your business will benefit from. Whether it's market trends, platform optimization, or innovative strategies, you get invaluable information from management.
When you’re working alone, you’re operating in a bubble. With management, you have a team with experience to bounce ideas off of, and help you understand benchmarks for rates, terms, and other industry standards.
Does the talent pursue the manager or is it the other way around?
Both! If you're doing the outreach, make sure you’ve got a good pitch that's short, snappy, and sweet. Tell them something compelling and back it up with a media kit and stats so they can assess your business in a relatively quick amount of time (the industry moves fast and managers are always busy!).
Managers are also always on the lookout for new talent for their roster. But be picky. Don’t go with the first company that reaches out or responds to your management inquiry. Make sure you’re doing your research.
Tip: friendly referrals from other people in the industry go a long way.
What advice would you give someone looking for a manager?
Talk to different managers at the company you’re prospecting. Every manager has a different management style, skillset, specialty, and roster. Consider whether or not their approach might complement you. See who you connect with the most, can communicate better with, and have a better working relationship with.
Remember, this is (potentially) a long-term relationship. Don't commit to something that's not for you!
New Signs
Amayah Shaienne
Amayah Shaienne is a lifestyle content creator and Sophomore at the University of Alabama who quickly grew a following during Bama Rush. At just nineteen years old, she has garnered a following of nearly 100,000 across TikTok and Instagram and has her audience obsessed with all parts of her college life. She is excited to continue bringing her loyal followers along as she attends key college moments such as sorority rush, football games, and more. Thus far, Mayah has partnered with the likes of L’Oreal, MAC, Olive & June to name a few.
Katie Fawn
Born and raised in Kentucky, Katie is a 25-year-old entrepreneur and content creator who is best known for her honest product reviews and educational, yet entertaining beauty content. She has built a very loyal audience by sharing her daily life, fashion favorites, and her top beauty secrets with her audience on the daily. Earlier this year, Katie competed in the Miss Kentucky pageant where she was a finalist and won the Evening Gown award. She currently splits her time between Kentucky and New York City.
Olivia Volpe
Olivia Volpe is a vibrant Gen Z content creator from Rhode Island who is best known for her unwavering authenticity and knack for spreading joy. Her online presence is characterized by her commitment to staying true to herself, openly discussing her struggles with anxiety to foster meaningful connection with her community, and sharing her transformative college experiences. Beyond this, Olivia is a trusted source of fashion and beauty advice, encouraging her followers to embrace their unique styles. Notably, she was crowned Miss Rhode Island Teen USA in 2019, showcasing her grace and inspirational qualities. Olivia Volpe is not just a content creator; she’s an authentic beacon of inspiration in the world of Gen Z content creation.
Payal Desai
Payal Desai is a lifestyle content creator, teacher, and an advocate for breaking down social stigmas around gender. As a mom of two with a formal background in K-12 education, she has always served as a resource for parents. She is also well known with her audience for her approachable fashion, style, and beauty tips. Payal was born and raised in the suburbs of Pennsylvania, but now resides with her husband and two boys in New Jersey. Her recent viral series “No Dusty Sons” has been published on Huff Post, Buzzfeed, Insider, and Parents.com, as well as featured on Fox Philadelphia News 29 and the Tamron Hall Show.
Sean Garrette
Sean Garrette is an NYC based licensed esthetician, skincare expert, and one of the top Gen Z creators changing beauty. With over 9 years of experience in the beauty industry, Sean educates his clients and followers on skin health through curated, in-person facial treatments and dynamic social content. Enlightening his audience on every aspect of skincare, Sean expertly breaks down the purpose of each ingredient and explores the science of skin. Focusing on skin of color, Sean advocates for his clients, ensuring that skincare is both accessible and inclusive. He has been featured in publications such as Vogue, Into The Gloss, Allure, and InStyle.
DBA NYFW Soirée at 1 Hotel Central Park
Earlier this month, we hosted a rooftop cocktail soirée at the 1 Hotel Central Park to celebrate New York Fashion Week.
So many of our incredible talent and industry-leading partners showed up and shared their passion for fashion and creativity with us. We’re grateful to have cultivated a community of innovators and trendsetters to celebrate with on a truly unforgettable night!
Thank you to the 1 Hotels team for the gorgeous space and impeccable hospitality. Take a look at more snapshots from the event below:
Latinx/Hispanic Heritage Month
Latinx Heritage Month is a time dedicated to celebrating the rich cultural heritage and contributions of the Latinx community. The month-long observance provides an opportunity to foster diverse representation and amplification of underserved voices.
During this month, elevating the voices and experiences of Latinx creators and communities should be a priority. Whether you immerse yourself in the vibrant world of art, music, or literature or engage in meaningful conversations, highlighting the multifaceted narratives of the community is what championing Latinx voices year-round and actively working towards a more inclusive world is all about.
To kick off a month of cultural celebration and reflection, we asked our talent what Latinx Heritage Month means to them. See Yasmin Maya, Yris Palmer, and Sarah Vargas' answers below as they share their personal perspective and highlight the importance of representation and cultural pride.
What does Latinx Heritage Month mean to you?
“Latinx Heritage Month means to be unapologetically you but louder! It feels like a safe space and time to really represent our culture and educate others about it.”
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What are some important traditions or customs that your family practices during LHM?
“We usually love to highlight other small Latinx businesses. One thing we started doing last year is joining shop small soirée where a lot of small Latinx brands come together to represent and support each other.”
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How are you passing on your cultural heritage and traditions to the next generation?
“Our culture is food, music, and our love for family moments so for the next generation (which are my daughters) I always remind them of the importance of family time. We make core dishes from our culture and dance to our music. I want them to know they should never be ashamed of their roots and instead represent it with pride.”
What does Latinx Heritage Month mean to you?
“Latinx Heritage month means celebrating our culture, our reason, and our family.”
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What are some important traditions or customs that your family practices during LHM?
“During Latinx Heritage Month, we put the Salvadorian flag on our cars, we are so proud of where we come from!”
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How are you passing on your cultural heritage and traditions to the next generation?
“Educating the next generation and keeping our traditions alive is the best way to pass our cultural heritage to the next generation.”
What does Latinx Heritage Month mean to you?
“I’ve always loved being a Latina. I’m forever grateful for all the time I spent in Mexico with my family and getting to experience what it means to be a Mexican woman. It makes me happy to see an entire group of people so proud of their roots and able to loudly celebrate their heritage with people around them.”
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What are some important traditions or customs that your family practices during LHM?
“We love kicking off LHM with celebrating Mexico’s Independence Day. Sometimes we celebrate at home with a special meal - this year we made Mazapán Latte’s and arroz con leche for breakfast. Other times we go downtown in our city and live it up with other latinos celebrating with food and music.”
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How are you passing on your cultural heritage and traditions to the next generation?
“My kids are definitely learning about their Mexican heritage through music, quinceañeras and carne asadas with the family, and, of course, food. Whether it’s teaching them how to make flan or tres leches for our family or having them taste test different aqua fresca or pan dulce recipes I’m working on - they definitely get to experience the different flavors of Mexico.”
Talent News
Brand Partnerships & Launches
Aimee Song and Mikayla Nogueira were named to Forbes’ second annual Top Creators list! Their second year on the Forbes Top Creators list, Aimee, the OG blogger turned entrepreneur, was featured for her decade of impact in fashion and her clothing brand Song of Style, and Mikayla, the Streamys beauty influencer of the year, was featured for her trendsetting beauty content and charismatic personality.
Big Little Feelings launched their new podcast, After Bedtime! From unpacking all things parenthood to sharing tips about potty training or managing tantrums, join Kristin and Deena as they discuss all of the things modern parents are experiencing today (but don’t want to talk about!).
Join your favorite internet big sisters, Makenzie and Malia Fowler, every Sunday as they discuss everything from relationship advice to toxic friendships, mental health, and how to be the best version of yourself on their brand new podcast, Big Sis Energy!
Brigette Romanek was tapped by Audemars Piguet to design a watch showroom penthouse right on Sunset Blvd. The space is officially complete and was featured in ELLE Decor, who coined the space a "watch lover's paradise".
Blake Gifford of Signed, Blake launched her fifth Amazon The Drop collection. From sleek pinstripe suits to resort-ready sets, this 16-piece Blake x The Drop collection features a versatile range with a little something for everyone.
Jordan Andino made an appearance on "Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen," where he engaged in lively discussions about all things Bravo and Southern Charm and showcased dishes from the latest fall menu at his restaurant, Carriage House NYC.
Paige Lindgren's custom salad, the Santa Monica Sunrise, is back for a second Summer at Alfalfa. This hormone health recipe is Paige-approved with whole and nourishing ingredients, the standout being the whipped red pepper feta. The Santa Monica Sunrise will be available while mangos are still in season!
Sean Garrette moderated the “Healthy Skin is a Flex” panel at BeautyCon. The licensed esthetician and Dior skincare expert, along with fellow beauty creators and panelists Sabrina Elba, Britni Ricard, and Kalani Hilliker, shared the beauty lessons and go-to hacks that helped shape their skincare routines.
Antoni Bumba made her modeling debut in the Kim Shui show this NYFW for the designer's SS24 collection. The TikTok star captivated the audience with her striking presence on the runway, leaving her mark in the ever-evolving world of fashion.
Glamzilla is one of the faces of Pennington's new Fall Fashion Campaign! The beauty influencer, known for her makeup reviews and unapologetic style, perfectly embodies the spirit of the brand's latest collection.
Brigette Pheloung of Acquired Style, a Gen Z fashion creator based in NYC, proudly represented Target and had the honor of attending the Target NYFW Fall Preview Event, where she was also featured in the shoot.
In the Press
We Can’t Get Enough of This Middle School Teacher’s Viral Lessons For Her Sons
View on Tamron Hall
The Black Fashion Influencers Driving Conceptual Storytelling
View on Essence
Hair Roller Queen Acquired Style Shares Her 11 Beauty Must-Haves
View on US Magazine
April Lockhart's Must Haves: From Instant Coffee to a Designer Handbag
View on PopSugar
'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition' kicks off construction in Hutto for one lucky family
View on Statesman
National Geographic’s Breakout Star, Jeff Jenkins, Is Helping Plus-Size Travelers See The World
View on Essence
“Cinnamon Spice Girl” Makeup Is Trending & It's The Dreamiest Fall Glam
View on Bustle
Confident Collective podcast inspires women to live their best lives
View on PIX11
TikTalk: Meredith Hayden on chronicling her life as a private chef
View on ABC News
UGC
The Digital Brand Architects User-Generated Content Division was launched in 2023 to meet the rising demand for diverse content and genuine product representation. User-generated content offers brands a unique opportunity to drive awareness, increase trust, and build positive sentiment, making it an essential component of their marketing strategy. While brands have historically been successful utilizing traditional social media marketing tactics, today’s consumers are looking for more diverse content and genuine product representation, making UGC the next evolution within the creator economy.
Get to know a few of our UGC creators:
Margaryta Bushkin
Margaryta is a NYC-based photographer and filmmaker since 2010, under the nickname Mucci. Thanks to her romantic storytelling and passion for capturing special moments and experiences, she have built a strong online community. From increasing brand awareness within her audience to UGC campaigns, she helps brands and artists connect with their community by expanding through photography, merchandise, motion, animated videos, and much more.
Stacy Kim
Stacy Kim is a UGC creator who creates a variety of fashion, beauty, and travel content while attending UCLA. She has worked with more than 45 brands and marketing teams, sharing high-quality photos and videos showcasing products, events, and styles. She has also been recognized for her quality content on Business Insider and LinkedIn News! Stacy understands marketing needs and makes her content presentable, but also incorporates a story behind every product.
Calli Cholodenko
Calli Cholodenko is the Founder of Something Social, a women-run, women-led social media agency and one of the first in LA to specialize in lifestyle brands. Calli and her team have worked with over 100+ notable brands, businesses and celebrities including hotels, restaurants, nightlife and entertainment, groups, beauty and fashion brands, wellness, CPG and more, creating content and managing their social channels. In addition to leading her team, Calli provides ongoing training to fellow founders and brands through one-on-one consulting and educational workshops. Calli's personal interests include travel, hotels and hospitality, wellness, beautiful aesthetics, coffee and palm trees.
Stephanie Wahler
Stephanie Wahler is a cocktail content creator with 15+ years of hospitality experience in South Florida. Steph loves creating cocktail recipes that are aesthetically pleasing and simple enough for anyone to make. Her mission is to highlight the importance of using fresh and seasonal ingredients when making a cocktail. Whether you're throwing a party or relaxing at home, her recipes encourage anyone to become their own mixologist.
@BevsByBeverly x Hey, Hei
A DBA UGC Campaign
It’s batched cocktail season and DBA UGC creator Stephanie Wahler partnered with ready-to-drink seltzer Hey, Hei on a Lemon Berry Gin Smash that’s perfect for your cocktail lineup. With over 10 years of bartending expertise and a page to prove it, Stephanie made for the perfect partner for the seltzer brand, seamlessly incorporating this fresh-on-the-scene Gin Seltzer into her one-of-a-kind recipes!
Industry News
Forbes Top Creators: The Richest On TikTok, Instagram & YouTube
View on Forbes
The Beauty Brands Driving Explosive Sales Growth From TikTok Videos
View on Business of Fashion
Gen X Marketing - brands are missing out on TikTok's fastest-growing generation
View on AdAge
Introducing The BoF Brand Magic Index
View on Business of Fashion
Influencer marketing surpassed $29 billion in 2022: report
View on Marketing Brew
Gen Z's Main Career Aspiration Is to Be an Influencer, According to a New Report
View on Entrepreneur
Publishers are taking a page out of the influencer playbook
View on The Hustle
Created for Clicks: what it takes for fashion and beauty brands to generate billion-dollar buzz
View on Marie Claire
The Hollywood Strikes Are a Wake-Up Call That Creators Are Bigger Than Social Media
View on Insider
Brands, collabs, products, and platforms to watch.
This is Digital Brand Products' Monthly Roundup! This segment will provide valuable insight into emerging digital platforms, unique brand collabs, industry updates, and more that will keep you in the know about the ever-changing consumer landscape.
Flaus is a new oral care brand that's on a mission to help people floss and reduce plastic at the same time. The brand's electric flosser is not only gentle on gums, it reduces the amount of plastic required for flossing. With plastic-free packaging, compostable mailers and a handle The easy-to-hold and gentle oral care tool is bio-friendly and non-toxic, and it helps to make one of the less enjoyable aspects of caring for the mouth, teeth and gums more friendly all around. Flaus' branding goes against traditional oral care branding stands out from other dental care brands.
The Rachel Parcell x Electric Picks collaboration features gorgeous jewelry pieces that are effortless for your everyday, but also elegant enough to be the standout piece for those special occasions. Whether you need more sparkles in your life or simply want to elevate your style, the Electric Picks x Rachel Parcell collection is a must-have! Shop the collection now.
Today’s detergents are leaving your soft goods dirty. Laundry stripping is a DIY soaking method that deep cleans the buildup in your fabrics and soft goods, removing dirt, grime, dyes, and other impurities. Founded by DBP VP of Brand Development Zoe DiStefano, Launderful is the first to develop an all-natural, biodegradable laundry stripping powder with a gentle, science-based formula. Streamlined into a quick-pour packet, SuperSoak ensures exact measurements — which means more time for you to do what you love, and less waste in landfills.
The Brandefy app is a free mobile app that helps consumers make more informed purchasing choices in the skincare and makeup categories. This is a great platform for younger consumers with less buying power or those who need to be mindful of their spending. Brandefy's mission is "to help you take control of your beauty journey" and in order to deliver on this, the brand enlists help from the community and "luxe products without the fancy labels." The app works to find the most affordable and highest-quality alternatives to one's skincare routine, with cruelty-free and vegan swaps at the forefront. While the Brandefy app was the first to come, the brand has now released its own line of clinically formulated, dermatologist-recommended, skincare.
Action Points
Staying on the pulse of emerging digital platforms is essential to maintain relevant with consumers. Adapting to promising new platforms, such as Brandefy, before they become mainstream will make you an early adopter and allow you to stay ahead of brands and creators that aren't yet utilizing these resources.
Flaus is a great example of a brand reimagining an essential product that everyone uses. The product has the same end use that it's always had, but also comes with plastic-free and display-worthy packaging. Revamping the design, adding an eco-friendly element, and marketing the beauty elements of the product allows this brand to stand out amongst big name competitors. The oral care market continues to grow and there's opportunity in reinventing everyday products that are geared towards Millennial and Gen Z consumers.
Data from 2022 shows country club and racket sports aren’t going anywhere. As pickle ball continues to grow in popularity in the US, a sport called padel is on the rise in Europe. Padel, a mix between tennis and squash, is picking up momentum in Spain and Italy and has been referred to as the fastest-growing sport in the world. Since early 2020, the number of padel courts in Italy has increased fivefold, and the number of schools and clubs has tripled. As tenniscore continues to take the athleisure world by storm, padel is set to be the next big activity on US consumers’ radars.
Digital Golf Collective
Stay in the loop and get the latest updates from Digital Golf Collective (DGC), the leading marketing and talent management agency with a specialized focus in golf. Access exclusive insights and stay informed about new signs, news, and developments in the world of golf talent. Whether you're an avid golfer, a passionate follower of the sport, or an industry professional, check out DGC's endeavors and keep up to date on all things golf below.
DGC News
PGA of America is engaging Digital Golf Collective to support the launch of their rebrand. DGC will engage a strategic list of talent to create content to promote the PGA, its updated logo, and highlight its services, mission, and programming. This campaign will educate golf and sports enthusiasts across social media on the organization, benefits, philanthropy, and highlights of The PGA to better differentiate perception of the organization from the PGA Tour. The entire campaign will not only strengthen and improve brand perception but will ultimately support the PGA of America’s launch of the new logo and messaging of WE LOVE GOLF.
Digital Golf Collective is excited to work with their newest client ECCO to expand brand awareness in the golf industry through organic and branded content. As part of this deal, DGC will provide ECCO Golf with select marketing services including influencer seeding, influencer management and sponsored support.
Talent News
Tisha Alyn is the face of Fitbit Premium as an in-app coach for all things golf fitness, dance cardio, and soon, all-around fitness instruction. She is the first Filipino female LGBTQIA+ golfer to represent Google as the face of the brand, and she will spearhead Fitbit's new product launches during Google's annual Made By event in New York.
Leading golf and hockey media personality for NBC Sports, Golf Channel, ESPN, and now, the official host for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Hailey Hunter, has a capsule collection coming out with top sports and golf retailer, PGA TOUR Superstore, this Holiday season. Comprised of her favorite pieces for the golf course, the collection will be released next month.
Cassandra Meyer recently competed in the World Long Drive and is in preparation for their World Championship in Atlanta, GA.
Dear Media Shows & Highlights
Welcome to BEING HER with Margarita Nazarenko, where we talk about womanhood, self development and the journey to BECOMING the best version of HER.
It's time to get real about sex. Welcome to Ex Virgin, the no-holds-barred podcast that's exploring the complexities of human sexuality and intimacy. Hosted by Carter Cruise, this show is all about exploring the world of sex, dating, and relationships with a candid and unapologetic approach. From porn stars and kink enthusiasts, to real time conversations with listeners, each episode is packed with insights, laughs, and surprises while breaking taboos, and exploring all the aspects of human sexuality. With its uncensored humor and outrageous stories, Ex Virgin is the podcast you've been waiting for. So put on your headphones, pour yourself a drink, and get ready to join the madness.
Uncut and Uncensored with Caroline Stanbury follows Caroline's ever evolving journey of living her best life after 40! Caroline is the star of Bravo TV hit series Real Housewives Of Dubai, an entrepreneur, wife, mother of 3, podcast host, philanthropist and style icon with a passion for business, fashion and interior design. Known for her witty humor and never afraid to speak her truth on the show, Caroline talks to celebrities, experts and guests from all walks of life. She shares their insights, lessons and experiences to empower you to thrive in every area of your life. Topics covered include everything from relationships, health, wellness, business, parenting, friendships, travel and taking control of your personal finances to facing fears and finding the courage to have those hard conversations we sometimes struggle with.