Let’s Talk About Gifting…
Getting loans and gifts from brands you love and can authentically support is a key element to the success and growth of an influencer. Here I’m wearing a Rhode dress and Pedro Garcia sandals.
Let’s Talk About Gifting…
This is probably every influencer’s favorite word : gifting.
This is when a brand reaches out to an influencer to offer them something for free. This could be clothes, electronics, holiday trips, toothpaste, and everything in between. Getting those emails can make your heart pitter-patter in such joy especially when an influencer is starting their career. Let’s not even mention when your favorite designer (hello Dior!) sends you a little “something something” in the mail.
Insert SWOON face here.
An influencer can begin to get a sense (sometimes false) that they’ve finally made it in the industry.
One thing I always like to point out is that influencers always have to be mindful when saying yes to this gifting, and not do so gratuitously. Meaning, not saying yes for the sake of saying yes.
Here are two main reasons why:
Sustainability - it’s simply not sustainable to say yes to everything. No one needs everything. In a world of mass consumption, we always have to be sensitive to “mass gifting.” Think about the packaging that goes into sending you something, and then the CO2 emissions for having it delivered to you. Simply by kindly opting out of receiving something you don’t necessarily like or care for (more on that below), you’re already taking a step towards being more sustainable in the fashion industry.
Thoughtfulness - when a brands gift influencers, they normally do so with a specific list, and they’re hoping that a) they genuinely love what they’re being gifted and b) that they’ll post something organically. So when an influencer accepts and really doesn’t care (nor do they post) they just did a disservice to that brand. They could have gifted someone who really loves it, and who could potentially post about it. Being thoughtful is always key to building relationships with brands you truly love. There’s nothing less chic than fashion-gluttony.
If you’re wondering how to kindly say no to a brand who’s offering you something for free, you should definitely check out THIS email template. You’ll sound extremely grateful and professional - and isn’t that what we’re all aiming to be?