We had the good fortune of connecting with Abigail Ann and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Abigail, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I grew up in a smaller town in Arizona. Small town living motivated me to explore all of the possibilities and opportunities that my town couldn’t provide, and most of those at the time were online. I began creating content online when I was in middle school. Since I didn’t have a license and my parents worked, I was left to my own devices (literally). I would spend hours making silly YouTube videos with my friends and family, or writing poetry or fiction. Because I experimented so much with different styles of content — both consuming and creating — I developed a love for trying new things that have followed me into my adult life. Now, as a college student living on my own, I desire to explore and try new things that expose me to new people, connections, cultures, lifestyles, and passions.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I entered the social media industry when I was just fourteen. I began writing books and self-publishing on Amazon just months before my freshman year of high school. My early career in writing eventually landed me a position as a multi-media journalist for a media agency, and I continued with that company for nearly three years. Throughout those three years, I also freelanced as a blog copywriter and worked for several social media personalities with notable followings. In the four years since entering the industry, I’ve worked for brands such as Shopify and Cartoon Network. Although I tried to not let my young age define me, it was something that stood out to people I connected with. I began working for brands and influencers at a time when it was still relatively new, and I believe that my experience surpasses others who are well into their adult lives. It was hard being fifteen in a Zoom meeting with business execs or influencers with hundreds of thousands of followers, but it taught me how important having confidence in yourself and your abilities is when trying to be successful. I had to believe in myself because not a lot of other people would right off the bat. Now that I am transitioning more into working in a corporate world and growing my personal brand, I want people to know that my age doesn’t undermine my experience, but also that a good employee is always willing to learn and grow with a company. I’ve spent years making mistakes, but it is the taking accountability and willingness to improve that sticks out to others.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I currently live in Flagstaff, AZ full-time, and I love when people visit so I can show them my favorite spots. If my best friend was visiting for the day, I would first take them to downtown Flag and sit down for coffee or tea, either at Late for the Train or Steep. Then, we might walk around downtown looking at the shops and local businesses, my personal favorite being the Basement Marketplace. Then we might go on a little hike / nature walk on Campbell Mesa Loop or Buffalo Park in East Flagstaff. After that we could grab lunch/dinner in Southside (I have to make sure they see all of the different parts of Flagstaff!) We might walk around more in town and end the day watching the sunset at City Lookout by Lowell Observatory.

 

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mom has always been my biggest supporter in life, and if it weren’t for her unconditional encouragement to be independent and explore the opportunities available to me, I wouldn’t be nearly as adventurous as I am. I owe a lot to her. She was my first investor when I founded my jewelry business honeydew jewelry co, she was the first person to write reviews for my books on Amazon, and she always fought for me when I faced adversity (and still does!) My mom (Julie) is the strongest person I know and she inspires me every day to never give up.

Website: https://abigailannofficial.weebly.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/abigaiilann

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigail-ann/

Other: Podcast: https://anchor.fm/girl-talk-with-abigail

Image Credits
Image credits: Rainee Favela

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