Today we’d like to introduce you to Allie Barke.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started my blog in high school – nearly seven years ago as a creative outlet. That was before Instagram even existed. I started out with just a (very poorly designed) website. I’m originally from Southern California. I put a lot more time and effort into blogging after I moved to Chicago for college. I’m very much self-taught. I learned a lot through trial and error over the years, as well as through various social media internships. My following slowly grew as I got more involved in the Chicago blogger community.
Has it been a smooth road?
Blogging is hard work and extremely time-consuming. I spent basically all of my free time during my four years of undergrad working on my blog. It doesn’t happen overnight. At one point, I was going to a different event every night of the week. My advice for other women is to find your niche and stay true to that. Also, step away from your laptop and get involved in your local blogger community. Many of the big brand collaborations I’ve done happened because of in-person connections. The community here in Chicago is so supportive and you can find events to attend even if you’re just starting out.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Allie’s Fashion Alley – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
A lot of people think I blog full-time, but I actually work full-time at Lightspan Digital – a boutique digital marketing agency in Chicago. My work there really goes hand in hand with my blogging. My experience as a blogger and with influencer marketing complements my work at Lightspan and vice versa. My blog is now a side hustle but also something that I really enjoy. I’ve met many good friends through blogging and attending events with them never feels like work.
I’ve used the same tagline ever since I started my blog back in high school – dressing with class in an age of yoga pants and Kardashians. I’m proud that I’ve always stayed true to my personal style and I think it sets my brand apart.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve benefited from using?
I’m constantly learning from my work and coworkers at Lightspan because of digital changes so quickly. Private Facebook groups have been a major resource for keeping up with best practices in blogging and social media. Bloggers can learn a lot from each other.
Contact Info:
- Website: alliesfashionalley.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alliesfashionalley/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlliesFashionAlley
Image Credit:
Nicole Jansma https://www.nicolejansmaphotography.com
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago 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.
