CurlGirlAri: Social Media Influencer

Diamond Holly
Jun 13, 2023
4 min read

Updated: Jul 11, 2023

June 11, 2023

Ari, widely recognized as CurlGirlAri, is a multi-talented lifestyle and beauty creator, makeup artist, and TikTok personality. With a dedicated following of 40k, she has grown an audience with her infectious energy and relatable content. Beyond her expertise in makeup artistry, Ari's creative passions extend to designing stunning graphics for YouTubers and Artists, elevating their visual presence in the digital realm. Her unique blend of skills and passion for creativity has solidified her position as a rising star in the online beauty and content creation industry.

How did you get started as a content creator and graphic designer?

Ever since since I was younger I’ve always enjoyed being a creator on social media, one of my first experiences was with vine where I actually gained over 70,000 followers through creating fun skits and jingles as an 11 year old. As I got older, I wanted to continue pursuing content creation because I really enjoy that it’s a job where you get to express yourself, entertain, and educate others on topics that I am passionate about. As for graphic design I have always been passionate about arts and after attending an Information Technology focused high school I knew I wanted to integrate those to passions. In college I enrolled in the digital media design program and studied web and graphic design!

Who are some of your biggest inspirations?

I am really inspired by some of my friends who are currently successful content creators and are killing it like @champagnebecca and @sassysoundsasmr. Meeting and hanging out with them just really showed me how much it is possible to do the things that I’ve been dreaming of my whole life. Another big inspiration is Monet McMicheal. She was one of the first big creators to support me as an artist and let me send her some of my artwork and I just love everything that she puts out there, she radiates great vibes. She really does give 110% and I aspire to be at that level in the future.

Most memorable moment in your journey so far on social media?

There has been some really great moments so far but I think my favorite was when I was followed by one of my favorite artist Rico Nasty, and posted to her Instagram page. It was crazy to be recognized by someone I love and was such a great feeling.

Can you share any tips or techniques you use to stay inspired and overcome creative blocks?

Utilize your resources!!! There’s so much inspiration out there and never be shy to grab inspiration from other people as long as you’re honest in crediting the original creator. Things will always work out for you and who knows, that credit could help you be recognized and allow you to network making a new connection!

What are some common misconceptions or challenges you face as a content creator?

A misconception I think is that it’s always easy , or that it doesn’t take a lot of effort, sometimes it’s a hard job just because it’s a one-man show and you kind of have to learn how to do a lot of different jobs to bring your visions to life. But with that being said, even though it does get hard, sometimes I really enjoy that pushes me out my comfort zone, and I prove to myself time and time again that I can learn how to do something, even if it was hard at first.

How do you balance your time and energy between doing makeup, content creation, and managing it all?

It definitely was really hard as I was a full-time student up until last year but ever since graduating I am able to use my time doing what I want when I want! I really enjoy being self employed as it gives me the freedom to spend my time how I want to and I get to work where ever I go, just take my iPad with me and I’m good to go!

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in pursuing a similar path?

I would say, just go full force into it. Don’t allow other peoples doubts stop you from pursuing what you wanna do. Some people might not understand it but it’s not your job to explain yourself to them. Just have fun doing it and be consistent. Consistency is key!

What message or impact do you hope to leave on people?

I just hope to be a positive presence in peoples lives, somewhere to turn to learn new things and have a laugh and just overall make people feel good.

What do you ultimately hope to accomplish in the future?

I hope to grow my name as a brand itself, as well as take Graphics By Ari to the next level, produce apparel, and have my own warehouse to manufacture the merch I sell. I wanna continue to work with artists like Maiya The Don and more, and just become a household name where people recognize my work and know who I am!