Today we’d like to introduce you to Zariah Hunter.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve always been a fashionista ever since a little girl! My mommy always tells the story about me wanting my hair done and nice clothes before I left the house! #lildiva I’ve always loved shopping as well. Our favorite store to go to are TJMaxx, Ross and Burlington but early in the morning before the crowds or late at night.
In middle school, many students were doing this thing called thrifting. Of course, it became popular, so I wanted to go as well! My Mommy was like, I know about the thrift store, but I didn’t think you would want to go. I’m not going to lie what drew me in was how much you could buy for such a little price. Then also in the back of my mind, I would think I’m in this huge building with clothes from thousands of random people house… literally, in the past, I could only be in a thrift store for 30 minutes before I thought I would crawl out my skin.
Fast forward to high school. I’ve always had many interests but fashion has always stuck, and many can agree to that. In high school, I posted ootd on Instagram just because I thought I was cute. I think my original page was @semajladybug but know it’s @doseofsemaj. Around the time when I changed my name, I met a friend, and we were talking about branding and stuff this is when I realized people really do this for real. We were brainstorming a name, and she said doseofsemaj as a joke and was like I kinda like it let’s do it. Now its five/six years later thanks, Crystal!!
Fast forward to college, I vowed to always be cute on campus 1. because why not 2. I’m a merchandising and digital retailing student studying fashion. Many people can attest to me always needing an ootd picture. I was so passionate about capturing my looks I would call friends and say I’m meeting you at this building or tell them I’m stopping by before your class starts because I need a picture lol!! Now thrifting in college became the life one I needed to save money and two it gave me the opportunity to create looks at an affordable price.
If I wasn’t at the thrift, I was in the back of some discount retailer at the clearance rack still trying to use a coupon #allaboutsavingacoin! The goal behind my Instagram is to share the price means nothing as long as you are confident! I love to brag about my deals and share how you can mix your old and new. Also, I love color, and I love to laugh so anyone that comes to my page. I want them to go feel the brightness and get a laugh. Also, I want women to feel confident in their skin tone.
Many African American women have shared their insecurities of being a dark skin woman and if anything I want them to rock their melanin and know their darkness makes them shine! Throughout my college experience, I’ve work to build my brand but also managing school work and work I was never able to give my 100% of course. My passion is to keep influencing people and working with brands so that I am able to monetize my platform.
I’m also working on building my network and clientele for wardrobe styling and personal shopping. Going to college, I have met so many great people, attended many events, and gained so many opportunities. This experience has been challenging, frowning and fun! I’ve grown a deeper love for my style and others, and most importantly I’ve loved this blogger life.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I’ve really struggled with consistency and having creativity drought. Sometimes you don’t know what to do, or you don’t know what your audience likes. Therefore you just create content and see how it goes. (But still remains true to yourself don’t put things out if you don’t like it) Also, my weight has gone up over my college years so sometimes I’m overly concerned about how fluffy I look lol!
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Dose of Semaj story. Tell us more about the business.
Fashion, Food, Lifestyle Blogger. People know me for my fashion mainly I’m slowly incorporating food post because I am a true foodie.
I’m proud of the network I’ve built online, and some of the people I’ve met in person and I look up to them. I believe what sets me apart is on the internet. I’m the same girl as in person.
The way I am on Ig stories, or the way I talk in my caption is how I am when I meet you. We are the same I just like to take pictures in cute clothes. I believe my vibe is consistent.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I’ve had nothing, but great opportunities come from social media. Thank you, God! When I’m not consistent, I do lose followers and engagement, unfortunately. Even though I don’t like that it is not something I can rebuild.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.doseofsemaj.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: Www.instagram.com/doseofsemaj
- Yelp: Zariah H
Image Credit:
Zariah Hunter, Khalilah Hunter
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