Starting my journey as a content creator was a mix of chance, curiosity, and encouragement from the people around me. Back in 2014, I had been sharing long, thoughtful captions on Instagram when a friend Moureen gave me the nudge I needed to step into this space. Blogging quickly became my first love—it gave me the freedom to express my thoughts on fashion, style, and eventually fitness, which blended perfectly with my personal passions.

The inspiration to continue came from my love of storytelling and the connections I began building with people who resonated with my content. It wasn’t just about sharing pretty pictures or ideas—it was about creating a space where I could inspire, motivate, and relate to others. Every awkward YouTube video, every trial and error in my blog posts, and every comment from my growing community reminded me why I started—to document, to share, and to build something meaningful. Content creation became my creative outlet, my learning journey, and ultimately, my purpose.

During my Master’s program, I found myself drawn to the idea of rational marketing—especially as digital marketing was still so new and full of potential. The concept of content creation started to feel like a natural fit, blending creativity with strategy in a way that made sense to me. Fast forward to my role as a Studio Director in a production and marketing agency, and I was able to learn, grow, and truly understand content creation from a business perspective.

It gave me a behind-the-scenes understanding of storytelling, branding, and how to create impact. I realized that content creation isn’t just about sharing—it’s about crafting a message, building connections, and finding ways to resonate with an audience. That experience gave me the confidence to turn what started as a creative outlet into a purposeful, full-time passion. Looking back, everything—from writing my dissertation to managing campaigns—has shaped how I create today. It’s been a journey of merging structure with passion, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

After 10 years of balancing full-time employment and part-time content creation, I’ve finally taken the leap into full-time content creation. This decision was a long time coming, but truthfully, I stayed afraid for so long—afraid of leaving the stability of a 9-to-5, of stepping into the unknown, and of betting on myself in a way I never had before. It wasn’t easy to walk away from the comfort and structure I was used to, but deep down, I knew it was time.

The fear held me back for years, but so did the “what-ifs.” What if I failed? What if I couldn’t make it work? These thoughts kept me in my safe bubble. But over time, that bubble began to feel smaller and smaller, and my passion for creating grew louder. It got to the point where the fear of staying the same outweighed the fear of stepping into the unknown.

Now, as I navigate this new chapter, it’s a mix of excitement, uncertainty, and so much learning. Leaving the safety net has forced me to embrace every challenge—managing the constant demand for content, standing out in a competitive industry, and navigating financial uncertainty. But instead of letting those fears consume me, I’m learning to use them as fuel to grow, strategize, and create with purpose.

This isn’t just about following a passion; it’s about trusting myself to build something meaningful, staying authentic, and treating my work like the business it is. It’s about turning what once felt like a dream into a reality. The road ahead is uncharted, and while I’m still figuring things out, I’m moving forward with hope, determination, and faith in myself. Leaving my 9-to-5 may have been scary, but staying in it would have been scarier. It’s a journey I’m finally ready to take, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.

A typical day as a full-time content creator? Honestly, it’s a mix of structure and flexibility—it keeps things interesting! My mornings are sacred; I start with a little prayer to center myself, then head to the gym to get moving and set the tone for the day. That post-workout energy is my fuel to dive into the creative chaos.

Once I’m back, it’s all about content. Some days, I’m filming or editing videos for YouTube, brainstorming ideas, or recording an episode for the podcast. Other days, it’s less glamorous but just as important—answering emails, managing my digital products, or prepping for upcoming collaborations. There’s always something to plan or create, which I love because it keeps me on my toes.

By the afternoon, I’m usually catching up with my community—whether it’s responding to DMs, engaging with comments, or sharing some behind-the-scenes moments on Instagram. If it’s a lighter day, I’ll use that time to work on big-picture goals, like creating new resources or mapping out future projects.

Evenings are my slow-down time. I’ll reflect on what I accomplished, plan out the next day, and then unwind with my fiancé—whether that’s catching up on a show, having a good chat, or just relaxing. Every day looks a little different, but that’s what makes this journey so fulfilling. It’s creative, chaotic, and completely mine.

Paris. The city that started it all. My very first intercontinental trip, and honestly, I couldn’t have picked a better place. Paris felt like stepping into a dream—every corner, every cobblestone street, every whiff of freshly baked croissants screamed magic. And then, three years later, I got to visit it again, but this time, it wasn’t just Paris—it became our Paris. It’s where I got engaged, and now it holds this deep, personal meaning that I carry with me. Paris will forever be the place that stole my heart—twice.

New York. The city so good they had to name it twice. New York—the city that makes you feel alive in ways you didn’t know you could. It’s chaos, energy, and magic all rolled into one. It’s where I felt the most at home, like the city was rooting for me to win. From the buzz of Times Square to the quiet moments in Central Park, it’s a place where anything feels possible. I had some of the best times of my life there—days where I laughed until my cheeks hurt, walked until my feet ached, and felt like I was living in my own movie. New York isn’t just a city; it’s an experience, and every moment there reminds me why it’s a place I’ll always want to go back to. I believe everyone needs to experience her at least once.

Rome. Oh, Rome. The history, the charm, and the food—my goodness, the food. Some of the best meals of my life were had there, but let me tell you, the pizza? The pizza is the undefeated champion. There’s something about sitting at a tiny table in a bustling piazza, biting into a slice that’s so simple yet so perfect, and just letting the world around you blur for a moment. Rome is a vibe—chaotic, delicious, and unforgettable.

Bali. Bali feels like pressing pause on the noise of life. It’s where everything slows down, and you’re left with nothing but gratitude for the little things. The lush greenery, the calming beaches, the sunsets that look like they’ve been painted by a master artist—it’s pure magic. Bali is where I found peace, inspiration, and a deeper connection to myself. There’s a rhythm to life there that just lets you breathe, reset, and remember what truly matters. Every time I think of Bali, it feels like a warm hug from the universe.

South Africa. If there’s any place that feels like my second home in Africa, it’s here. South Africa isn’t just a destination; it’s a feeling. It’s where my wine palate came to life—because Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are truly something else—but it’s also where I feel the deepest sense of connection. The people, the landscapes, the culture—it’s everything I love rolled into one place. Every time I go back, it feels like a reunion with somewhere I’m meant to be.These places aren’t just spots on a map—they’re pieces of my story, layers of memories, and reminders of why I fell in love with travel in the first place. Each one has left a mark on me, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Over the years (and through plenty of trial and error), I’ve narrowed down my must-haves—the things I’d never board a plane without.

First, an eSIM or portable Wi-Fi device. Staying connected is a game-changer, whether I’m navigating new streets, checking into accommodations, or sharing a quick update with loved ones. It’s my safety net and my productivity tool all in one.

Next, a versatile travel organizer. My cables, chargers, and adapters live in one tidy little pouch. It’s such a small thing, but trust me—there’s nothing worse than digging through your bag for a charger while your phone is screaming for mercy.

Then there’s a solid travel-sized skincare routine. Planes are like little moisture vacuums, so I always carry a hydrating mist, a good moisturizer, and sunscreen (because SPF is life, no matter where you are). My skin thanks me every time.

Packing cubes are another lifesaver. They keep my suitcase from turning into a tornado zone and make unpacking at hotels ridiculously easy. I’m all about keeping my things organized—it gives me one less thing to worry about.

And finally, my curated travel journal. It’s more than just a place to write—it’s my go-to tool for organizing itineraries, tracking expenses, packing lists, and capturing all the little moments I never want to forget. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your travel experience, you can grab the same travel journal I use here. Trust me, it’ll change how you travel forever.

These essentials have become my little travel non-negotiables—they keep me organized, comfortable, and ready for whatever adventure comes next.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned from my content creation journey? Authenticity is everything. When I first started, I thought being a content creator meant showing up perfectly polished all the time—the perfect photos, the perfect captions, and the perfect version of myself. But the more I chased that, the more disconnected I felt—from my audience and even from myself.

What I’ve come to realize is that people don’t want perfect; they want real. The messy, awkward, learning-as-you-go moments are just as valuable (sometimes more!) than the wins. When I started sharing my truth—the good, the bad, and the “I’m still figuring it out”—that’s when I really started to connect. And let’s be honest, trying to be perfect all the time is exhausting.

Another biggie? Content creation is so much more than just creating. It’s a business. It’s strategy. It’s showing up, even when you’re tired, and figuring out how to pivot when something isn’t working. Learning how to balance creativity with being intentional—whether it’s building partnerships, growing income streams, or finding ways to stay consistent—has been a game-changer.

But the most important lesson? Growth takes time. Those early, cringe-worthy videos and late-night edits are part of the journey, and they’ve shaped who I am as a creator. Looking back, I wouldn’t trade those moments for anything. They’ve taught me that this isn’t just about content; it’s about the connections, the lessons, and the story you’re building along the way. And honestly? That’s the best part.

The story behind my rebrand as Kymmiee Lately is deeply personal—it’s about stepping into my truth, owning who I am, and finding clarity in where I’m going. For years, I felt like I was just “going with the flow,” trying to balance full-time work with part-time content creation. On the surface, it seemed like I was doing it all, but deep down, I knew I wasn’t fully showing up for myself or for my audience. I was creating, yes, but I wasn’t creating from a place that truly reflected me.

This rebrand is my way of saying, Enough. Enough of playing small. Enough of letting fear dictate my choices. Enough of creating just to tick the boxes or fit into someone else’s version of success. It’s about finding my why, redefining it, and fully owning it. My why is simple: I want to create a space that inspires people to see the beauty in their everyday lives, to take bold steps toward their dreams, and to feel supported in their growth—no matter where they are in their journey.

The name Kymmiee Lately felt right because it represents who I am right now—growing, changing, evolving, and embracing the messy, beautiful journey that comes with it. It’s a nod to the idea that life is fluid, that we’re always becoming, and that it’s okay to not have everything figured out. This rebrand isn’t just about a new aesthetic or tagline—it’s about showing up fully, sharing my voice, and offering something meaningful.

For the first time, I feel like I’m building something that’s truly aligned with my heart and purpose. Kymmiee Lately isn’t about perfection—it’s raw, real, and entirely mine. It’s a reflection of my journey, and I want it to feel like a home for others too. Whether you’re here to learn how to romanticize your daily life, build your dream career, or simply find inspiration for your next step, this is your space.

This rebrand is about embracing the journey, not just chasing the destination. It’s about making space for growth, being unapologetic about who we are, and showing up authentically—flaws and all. For me, that feels like freedom. That feels like purpose. And this is Kymmiee Lately—human, evolving, and here to inspire you to embrace your own journey, one bold step at a time.

my biggest piece of advice is to start with your “why.” Ask yourself: Why am I doing this? What do I want to share? What do I want people to feel or take away from my content? Your “why” is the foundation of your brand—it’s what keeps you going when things get tough and what makes your voice unique in a sea of creators.

Next, focus on authenticity. You don’t need to be perfect; you need to be real. People connect with honesty, vulnerability, and your unique perspective. Share your story, your wins, your lessons—your audience will appreciate you for showing up as your true self.

Clarity is key. Know what you stand for and what value you bring to the table. Whether it’s inspiring people, educating them, or simply making them feel seen, your brand should be consistent in its message and purpose. This doesn’t mean you can’t evolve, but having a clear focus helps your audience understand who you are and why they should follow you.

Also, treat it like a business from day one. Even if it’s a side hustle now, create systems, set goals, and take it seriously. Learn the basics of branding, marketing, and monetization, and don’t be afraid to invest in tools or education that will help you grow.

Finally, be patient. Building a personal brand takes time, consistency, and a lot of trial and error. You’ll make mistakes, try things that don’t work, and pivot more times than you can count—and that’s okay. Growth isn’t linear, and success doesn’t happen overnight, but every step you take is a step closer to building something meaningful. Stay committed, stay true to your vision, and trust the process. You’ve got this!