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

Hi Marissa, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Although I still work as a model and influencer, I transitioned the main focus of my business to digital marketing. This has allowed me to use my past experiences in a beautiful way. My background has allowed me to bring experience from all sides of digital marketing to my projects and clients. In todays market, an online presence is such an important part of running a business. Having the experience of working behind and in front of the camera, creating ads from both the perspective of a consumer and the business side has really been beneficial. As a social media manager, I was able to pivot something I loved doing into a passion; helping others.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Through my experience in the creative industry, I’ve learned so much. Most importantly, I learned is to be true to myself and how to express that in the form of art. I focused on finding a purpose, and that was in being creative and inspiring others to do the same. I created a business structure that brings in people that want to solely work with me because they can love and respect my work ethic, experience, and approach in the field.

This was not easy at all, but chasing your dreams never is. Conforming to what is expected or what is societies standards is the easy thing to do. With these efforts I’m able to bring the best results for anyone I work with.

Once I was able to let go of following the exact standard protocol and procedures that I was taught via courses and classes and different corporate agencies I’ve worked with, I was able to build a structure that included what I knew works for a business from the perspective of someone creating social media content, modeling social media content, sharing things I love on social media as a creator, but also as a consumer.

Collaboration is truly the key to success, building true genuine relationships is what got me where I am. Hard work is what helped me maintain where I am.
Living and making money pursuing my dreams is what allows me to be so good at what I do. I’m able to go above and beyond for anyone I work with because I truly love what I do.

It’s truly a dream come true to express my creativity in so many different ways, while proving guidance and opportunity for 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.
Chicago is such a fun, diverse, and beautiful city. A lot of my favorite spots are very dependent on the weather, lol.

A lot of my favorite places to eat are located in the Gold Coast, all walking distance from each other. The neighborhood is beautiful and gives you such an appreciation for Chicagos architecture and food.
(Treat yourself) Restaurants: Esquire By Cooper’s Hawk, Maple & Ash, & Adalina.
When visiting Chicago having pizza is a MUST. I would recommend Peqouds, or Giordano’s.

I’m a huge fan of @ericbosschicago, he’s a very reputable Chicago promoter that always has the best themed parties weekly. He’s extremely hospitable and welcoming to anyone looking to have a good time downtown Chicago.

For business networking in Chicago, @tonypnetworkingevents hosts events at Chicagos top spots where you can meet local business professionals.

Chicago always have mind blowing pop ups, that are always fun.
Chicago theater puts on some amazing plays, Harold Washington library is amazing inside and out it has 9 floors of books and resources and an atrium on the top floor to study or read.
Nothing beats a stroll through Millennium Park (in the summer if you get cold easily like me) or a stroll down Michigan Ave or State St for shopping

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Gratefulness truly lives in my heart. I could not be where I am now without all the love and support. Every single client and collaborator I have worked with that took a chance on me because they believed in my vision and work ethic. My friends and family for sticking with me through all the trials, tribulations, and transitions. As an entrepreneur, we all cross paths of change. To anyone who has stuck beside me through all the changes. I love you deeply and sincerely, and words cannot describe how thankful I am. Without you, I would not be who I am today.

I want to thank the team of @trendsapio for trusting me in their journey and bringing me on the team.

My family for showing me how much they have my back especially this year.

And each and every creative I have worked with this year… It wouldn’t have been possible without you.

Instagram: www.instagram.com/meeowrissa

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marissabuckle

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