4 outfits I never would’ve dreamed of wearing & they didn’t come from any social media inspiration either: How Influence Really Works.

In marketing, we talk about the future being about experiences, and this past week was a new favorite, so much so, that I felt it worth sharing. Life is really a collection of moments, and in the past few months, I have had the privilege (thanks to our mutual friend and legacy of a fashion genius Richie Rich) to have met HIS very best friend and brilliant fashion artist, stylist, and owner of the legendary boutique (by referral only) RISK Gallery & Boutique in Brooklyn. Her name is Lindsay Rose Risk, and she would never tell you that she is the true fashion influencer; she's very private (so much so I am nervous posting this, but it is well deserved). But this woman defines what it means to be an artist and leader. She runs a fashion empire, and she dresses and styles some of the most talked-about stars you see in magazines and red carpets. 

When it came to me, I thought. "Oh gosh, I'm no A-list type she's used to; I'm sure she's just doing this as a favor for Richie and won't give me the time of day." I could not have been more wrong. In the days leading up, she called me, she texted me inspiration, she poured heart, passion, and integrity into every detail, we became friends in the process, and I was so excited to meet her that I could hardly wait. 

Never in my life have I been more blown away by a stylist or fashion boutique. The RISK Gallery and Boutique is a museum of creativity and greatness, and Lindsay and her staff are like magical fairies. Having done ground research, EVERY single thing they picked, I never could have imagined for myself, yet I loved it all, and it fit perfectly (when does that ever happen)? It wasn't 'by chance'- instead, they are indeed masters of their field. This experience gave me a new appreciation for the craft of fashion, art, and expression. 

From the ambiance to the personal touch, care, and intangibles, I can't begin to describe it (made more special by my older brother from another mother Sir Tom Cooper who had a ball)! What started as a dreaded task of simply choosing what to wear for an upcoming cover and business magazine feature (excited on another note for the Kana LiVolsi shoot) inspired me to want to work with this woman in different capacities. It doesn't matter the industry; when someone isn't just talented but genuinely driven, passionate, ambitious, and fun to work with, the most remarkable collaborations (and friendships) happen, which is what great business and great life are all about!

Thank you, Richie Rich, for becoming a dear friend and introducing me to his most special one Lindsay, to Larry Namer for always supporting my work and introducing me to Richie. Thank you to Tom Cooper for always being there, supporting me, making everything more fun, and lifting me up when I need it most. See how it works; it's not networking; it's building authentic relationships. That, my friend, is real influencer marketing!