Adam: Thanks again for taking the time to go behind the brand. First things first, though, what is something about you that the many people who follow you don’t know?

Caroline: When I started my career I wanted to become a fashion designer!

Adam: How did you become an “influencer”? What is the inside story?

Caroline: I never set out to become an influencer. I started writing my book “Making it in Manhattan: The Beginners Guide to Surviving and Thriving in the World of Fashion” and my literary agent suggested I start a website also called Making it in Manhattan! From there, things just started to take off and before I knew it I became an influencer.

Adam: What advice do you have for those interested in working with influencers? How do you do decide who to work with?

Caroline: I think it’s so important to make sure whatever project or campaign you’re considering working on, make sure it is on brand for you. Make sure your brand and theirs align well and it makes sense. I think looking for influencers who fit well with your brand and that are also offering something different is great!

Adam: What advice do you have for those interested in becoming influencers?

Caroline: Find something that sets you apart and run with it! There’s so many influencers out there at the moment so try finding something that will set you and your brand apart. Ask yourself, why should someone follow you? What can you add to the mix that isn’t already being done?

Adam: What is the biggest misconception about the influencer world and life as an influencer?

Caroline: That all we do all day is take pictures! It’s actually a lot of hard work- so much planning, research, and concept creation goes on behind the scenes that we can’t always share with our followers!

Adam: What has being an influencer taught you about branding and marketing?

Caroline: I’ve learned so much about how to brand myself and how to sell myself to an audience or brand! I’ve learn so much about what I like and what I don’t like and I am constantly challenging myself to always be creative!

Adam: What are your hobbies and how have they shaped you?

Caroline: In college, I was a varsity cross country and track runner. Being a runner taught me so much about persistence, how hard work can pay off, and how to push through the hard times! I’ve been able to apply so much of this into my career!

Adam: Who have been the biggest influences in your life and how do you pay it forward?

Caroline: My parents have been a huge inspiration to me along with designers like Betsey Johnson and Nicole Miller! I pay it forward through my book where I share all of my tips and tricks to getting your foot in the door and landing your dream job!