Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Rodriguez.
Ashley, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I started First Date Guide as an information hub for others to check when looking for something to do with someone special. It began in 2017 and to my surprise, my following grew to 5k in five months so I knew something I was doing was right. Later on Oct. 2018, I discovered TikTok and started uploading my videos. My following to date grew to 248k+. I was one of the first few foodies on TikTok! I love that folk can head over to my page to discover a new place from Los Angeles and Orange County! Some of my favorites are Velmas Cafe in South Gate, Lock and Key Social Drinkery in Downey and Wood and Vine in Hollywood.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has been a long and steady road. More opportunities keep popping up including: new friendships, brand deals, relationships with business owners and fans who support. To be honest, I struggled with photo content because I never went to school for it. I thought everyone on Instagram was a graphic designer when I first started. Turns out that they just downloaded apps and found their own style. I just started asking questions and advice to people I aspired to be like. Also, I asked for honest feedback, even if it hurt! I would give anyone this advice: Post every day for 30 days, give the audience what they want, work on your photography and video skills and get comfortable in front of the camera. If not then, you’ll never practice and get better at it! Never stop learning.
What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I currently freelance work with restaurants as their social media manager, create content for their social media platforms/brand/menus and I offer exposure on my platforms. You can find me on Instagram (@ashcashftw & @firstdateguide), Twitter (@ashcahsftw), TikTok (@firstdateguide). Linkedin, Google Maps Local guide & Yelp Elite. I’m most proud of being able to speak on multiple platforms as an influencer and consumer.
It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
Some books: The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday, Contagious by Jonah Berger and How to Shoot Video That Doesn’t SUck By Stockman.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.firstdateguide.info
- Phone: 5623966259
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firstdateguide/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleyanaisrodriguez
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/ashcashftw
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@firstdateguide
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