Today we’d like to introduce you to Marissa Garrett
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My passion for travel has always been evident, and I have secretly dreamed of living an “influencer” lifestyle while helping others, and without constantly being in the spotlight. I sat on this idea for years while daydreaming about it more than I’d like to admit. Then, I picked up my life and moved from my hometown in Ohio to South Carolina, several hours away from my family and friends. Embracing the change and having fulfilled one of my dreams of moving to the Carolina’s, I decided to take the leap and become a travel creator.
I hadn’t seen many people do this the way I envisioned it, so it was definitely a challenging start. I needed to determine my direction, what I wanted to focus on, and how I would stand out in a sea of millions of creators. Hours (and hours) of research later and having utilized my Marketing and Communications background, I began shaping my brand and direction.
Just over a year later I’m here, and have learned so much in a short timeframe. I’ve begun developing my community on Instagram, @SouthernExplorationsUS, showing up primarily as a faceless account sharing southern travel, stays, local favorites and hidden gems.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s been a journey consisting of endless hours of work in the background to develop my brand, my community, the content, and the entire vision behind it. Navigating your way through the world of social media when you’re just starting out as a creator feels like you’re a tiny fish in a huge ocean, to say the least. It’s so much different than being a viewer, so finding your footing can be challenging when there are so many industries, niches, and methods of success. Not to mention, the ever-changing state of social media platforms today.
Now that I’m starting to work with local businesses, short-term rentals, and other creators, it has made every late night and stressful situation worth it. Even when I thought about giving up, every small win along the way gives me the guiding light to keep going.
This passion project has become a self-taught learning experience that I treat as an opportunity every day.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
@SouthernExplorationsUS is a place where you can soak in the southern lifestyle and find your next adventure — whether that be your next mountain cabin, a coastal beach town getaway, or the local’s favorite restaurant. The travel inspiration is real, and it might just encourage you to add a new park, town, or event to your wish list. This page is a community of travelers, Carolinians, business owners, and those who love the south, where all are welcome.
What sets @SouthernExplorationsUS apart is the focus on our shared passion for adventure vs. the traditional “influencer” approach. You won’t see my name or face very often, but rather, you’ll see a new location you might want to check out or an Airbnb, restaurant, or itinerary you can use to catapult your next trip into action.
Come find us on Instagram and say hi! We might just be your next southern staple.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Most people would be surprised to hear that I’m currently a one-woman show who also works a 9-5!
I hope to pursue a full-time career in travel creation eventually, but until then, the grind carries on as my passion for travel and connecting with others continues to flourish and grow.
My motivation stems from a deep love of adventure and a passion for helping others uncover the beauty and endless possibilities the South has to offer.
I’m proud and so grateful for the community that exists today, and I’m extremely excited for all that lies ahead. Thank you for this opportunity!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://marissagarrett.my.canva.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southernexplorationsus
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@marissajgarrett_
