Meet Simone DeCarlo | Media Personality and Travel Influencer

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

Hi Simone, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
As a media personality, in the world of entertainment things can happen in a very unstructured way timewise. This was so different from my predictable 9-5 life. You may get an invitation to cover an event the same day or within just hours of the event. You will have to be okay with missing out on something because of the timing or other circumstances. You also need to be prepared ALWAYS. Have your equipment such as your microphone, camera, etc ready. Have an on camera outfit ready. You never know sometimes when an opportunity could present itself and it could go into the very late hours of the night if its related to movies, music, or fashion.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Well, its not hard to find fashion, travel and lifestyle bloggers online. What makes my content special is that I give you behind the scenes footage and interviews of the hottest urban music artists, film stars, comedians, etc. I take you to the parties, and talk with stars about their fashion style and what projects they are working on. Its a behind the scenes look at what is going on at exclusive album releases and movie premiers.

My road was the opposite of easy. I got here by persisting and networking and I mean that. My first year was full of defeating moments. I knew no one in media who could help me gain access to red carpets and other events. I had to be willing to create my own moments. I purchased a microphone and mic flag online and took advantage of any situation that looked like it could be “post worthy”. I really, really had to think outside the box. I was willing to look like an amatuer online temporarily if it meant that I would grow. A year and a half later, I’ve met some people and formed some relationships with a few people in media and I’ve built up my profile with some solid interviews.

In addition to media, travel is a second passion so I help others who want budget friendly tips for travel. As a kid my family was poor and we never vacationed. What I want people to know about my brand and story is that you too deserve to see the world no matter your financial circumstances. I want to encourage people to be inspired by my own story of growing up with nothing and transitioning to a media personality who chased her dreams and now travels the world, despite where I grew up. My message is for anyone who thinks they can’t travel because they arent’t rich. I want them to leave their hood, and see the world.

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 love Atlanta. This is easy and hard at the same time. Monday- Atlanta is known for having some of the best adult entertainment venues in the US. Mondays are actually a good day to go. So definately the strip club. Can I say that on here? lol. Maybe visit Slutty Vegan for vegitarian burger beforhand.
Tuesday- Skate night at Sparkles of Smyna. This is the night they stay open a litte later and its an adult crowd. Great vibes!
Wednesday- Crab Legs and Karaoke and Suite Food Lounge on Luckie Street.
Thursday-Perhaps this is a day to take advantage of some good food. I always aim for either Carribean or Seafood. Try an oxtail dinner with a beef patty from Golden Krust or a seafood boil dinner at one of the cities many crab joints. Juicy Crab, or the Pirates Boil come to mind.
Friday- If the weather is nice, go to the Starlight Drive in movie theater. If you prefer a movie indoors, try IPIC theater.
Saturday- This is a great day for either shopping or outdoor activities. I love all the stores and shopping on Scenic Highway. There is literally every store you can think of and plenty of restaurants nearby. If your feeling like some fresh air and light cardio, visit the beltline with your bike, skateboard, roller skates or walking shoes.

Self Care Sunday is a favorite of mine. I oftentimes book a massage at Massage Heights or a good foot massage at Treat Your Feet in Buckhead. Both have wonderful relaxing service. If thats not your kind of thing, there are plenty of brunch spots in the city.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I certainly want to dedicate my shoutout to my brother D’mont. In 2019 I pressed forward on my journey into entertainment reporting and he was always proud and cheering me on. Anything I posted on social media, my brother was always impressed by and left a comment. I never take a team with me or anything. I always persue my celebrity interviews alone, but my brother would always be happy to see the videos I later posted online. He passed away recently on January 8th, from Covid 19. I will never forget his support.

I also have the same level of support from my best friend Tanya. It may seem like something small to some because they weren’t there physically doing the work, but it does wonders for ones drive and confidence to get positive feedback. It helps to know that your effort isn’t going unnoticed. Being a creative means taking risks even when you are terrified of what the responce from your audience will be. There are a few others on social media that have sent me a DM to say, “Hey I’m really proud of what you are doing. I’ve been watching you grow.” and that means alot to me.

Website: blackcarriebradshaw.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackcarrieebradshaw/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKJxy8uo5UpqMfuKTqCC9iQ