How Digital Creator Reg Lok Van Has Adapted Her Blog In Response To The Pandemic
While many industries have taken a hit during the pandemic, influencers and content creators have been in a precarious position.
Screen time has increased as a result of nationwide lockdowns but on the other hand, brand partnerships look a bit different right now.
Wellness and lifestyle blogger Reg Lok Von has been navigating her way, and adapting to the crisis at hand.
Reg is a woman that wears many hats. She’s a kinesiologist, mom and digital creator. Her lifestyle blog, Nourish Through Movement, focuses on functional fitness, home and DIYs.
She has worked with brands including United Way Canada, Big Brothers of Vancouver, Walmart Canada, Steven Nash Fitness + Sports Club, Great Wolf Lodge, Pink Shirt Day, Kinder Surprise, Garnier Canada and Charmin, and was nominated as a Top 30 Vancouver Mom Blogger.
From budget-friendly home refreshes, to nightly bedtime memes, Reg is proving that there is a community for everyone online, and that there’s no better time to follow a creative pursuit than now.
How would you describe your work in one sentence or less?
Creating a fun and inclusive space for movement, wellness and the everyday.
“Making movement accessible and fun has always been my purpose. I want to inspire others to move well and without pain.”
Do you consider yourself an "influencer"; how has influencer culture shaped social media?
My role in this space is to have fun, make people laugh and share ideas - all things that I do with my girlfriends. I've connected with so many new people - that have also become my friends IRL - that being an “influencer” simply feels like an extension of my real life.
Influencer culture has hugely impacted social media. Influencers and creators form a special relationships with users and that is extremely valuable. Users turn to them for first hand reviews and recommendations and I think that can be very beneficial for consumers and brands.
How did leveraging social media allow you to earn a second income (or is this your primary income now?)
I was nominated for Vancouver Mom Top 30 Blogger a few years ago and that really jump started this adventure. I created a brand - but not without a couple of revamps.
Then I began attending media events, networking with brands, local bloggers and entrepreneurs. Organic relationships were formed. And then the work gradually came in.
It is a lot of work I have to admit, but I allow myself grace to ensure it is still fun because that is important to me. I also love being a kinesiologist so I won't be leaving that position anytime soon.
“That is what is so great about social media: the space for creativity is endless. There is something for everyone and if there isn’t, create it!”
What is the best part about what you do as a blogger? On the other hand, What is the most challenging?
There are so many good parts to this. I like attending media events because connecting with others fills my cup. The partnerships that I’ve had with local businesses have been incredible for my family. My girls love trying new things.
The most challenging part is the amount of work that goes on behind the scenes: editing, shooting and re-working of photos and captions as well as engagement. The second most challenging, I would have to say is the negative comments. I don't get them often - thank goodness - but they can be hurtful and discouraging.
What has been one of the most memorable campaigns you've worked on?
Ah, there have been several! I am particular about who I work with so they've all been pretty awesome! The most recent one that I miss quite a bit is my two year long partnership with a local gym. (COVID brought it to a halt.)
What social media trends do you think people should keep an eye on heading into the new year?
I think short video platforms like TikTok will continue to grow and be a starter of trends. Microblogging will become more common on social media. I also think there will be a trend towards more real and natural photos vs. over edited ones.
What would be your advice for someone who is considering monetizing their social channels, or wants to get started as an influencer?
Be YOU. Have fun, find your people and the rest will follow. There is room for every single one of us.
