We had the good fortune of connecting with Ibby Morris and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ibby, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The Honey POP! is based entirely on positive and uplifting coverage of pop culture from the perspective of the modern day fan. So, when I saw MY fave being disrespected in interviews by an industry that uses both artists and their fans for views and clicks, I thought to myself “fans can do this better.” (And we do).
It prompted five of us to buy the url and start writing from the heart. It’s what we still do today, only now our team is just over 100 members from all across the globe, all fans, all striving to give authentic and respectful coverage to the people who inspire us.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets us apart is that every person on our team is an expert on the subject matter they’re writing about. From our graphic artists, to our social media team, to our writers, editors, and video content creators, we are fans first. That adds an authenticity to what we put out that is missing in most mainstream media coverage. We continue to stand apart, because we have not wavered from that standard from the very first day. We will never be the biggest or the most successful publication, but we will ALWAYS be the one that is the most real. We don’t do this for money, but because we genuinely care. It’s the main thing that sets us apart and the quality I love the most.
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.
For a week-long trip in the area, here’s a suggested itinerary to show your best friend a great time:
Day 1:
– Start with a delicious Korean BBQ experience in Duluth. I personally love Thrill Korean Steak and Bar.
– And don’t forget a stop at the KPOP Store in USA for a fun shopping experience while there. The store is owned by Daniel, who is such a great host to every visitor in his store. Be sure and ask him for his music recommendations!
Day 2:
– No trip to Atlanta is complete without immersing yourself in the marine life at Georgia Aquarium.
– And while you’re in the area, head to the King Center and Human Rights Museum to learn about the significance and history of Atlanta during the civil rights movement.
Day 3:
– Day three is a day for dining. So, treat yourself to a unique dining experience at Gunshow, where the chefs present their creations directly to you.
– Later, indulge in a delightful meal at Miller Union, known for its farm-to-table cuisine.
Day 4:
– Enjoy some mouthwatering barbecue at one of the many locations of Fox Bros BBQ, a renowned local chain.
– Explore the vibrant food scene and cultural diversity along Buford Highway, trying different eateries and specialties.
Day 5:
– Head North to Portal Pinball in Acworth, an exciting pinball destination loved by enthusiasts. Then head over to our friends at Woodstock Arts, where you can catch a play or a music performance. It’s a community theater, but it’s stocked with some of the most talented individuals in metro-Atlanta! If you’re an aficionado of the arts, this will be your favorite stop on the list.
This isn’t all that Atlanta has to offer, but it’s a great showcase to get you started. Hopefully, after this trip you’ll have experienced delicious food, historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and unique entertainment,
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Every single fan who has ever dedicated their time and energy to promoting and empowering artistry, whether it’s through something as simple as a tweet or as dedicated as streaming parties and bulk purchases, inspires. Fangirl is not a dirty word and every fan out there, no matter who they’re a fan of, has inspired and continues to inspire. Fandom consists of the most creative, dedicated, extraordinary people, and they are ignored because of a stigma that should have never existed.
AND, every single member of The Honey POP!, past or present, is also an inspiration. This is a team of VOLUNTEERS who dedicate the whole of their spare time to building something together that is bigger than ourselves. We are continual proof that creativity is not dead, inspiration can motivate, and we can be the change we want to see in an industry that has never seen our value.
Website: https://www.thehoneypop.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thehoneypop
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-honey-pop
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thehoneypop
Facebook: https://facebook.com/thehoneypop
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAskmjSNWJShDW64qS1pj7A
Other: Discord: https://discord.gg/thehoneypop
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@thehoneypop
Image Credits
Pics 1, 2, 5, 6, 7 are mine, Ibby Morris Pics 2, 3 are credit to Jazmin Williams of Wales, submitted with her express permission Pic 8 is credited to Aman Shamim of Los Angeles, submitted with her express permission