Aysel Verdieva is a lifestyle blogger who moved to the USA. She shares her life path, what her day as an influencer in the United States looks like, and gives some advice about Instagram. Also, Aysel will tell how her family reacted to her profession and what generally matters in her life.
When did you start blogging and what was your motivation for getting started?
At the age of 16, I started blogging. Every day my audience grew, new subscribers appeared. I began to notice how they became interested in my life. Seeing beautiful girls on Instagram, I was inspired, and I wanted to be just like them. I loved attention, like being recognized.
What difficulties did you encounter when you first started blogging?
Gradually, I began to receive promotional offers. I was already starting to make money from Instagram, was invited to shoot and make-up – of course, it was all paid. Laying out beautiful places that I went to, they started to hate me. They poured mud on, always said you were so ugly, why are you invited to events.
Do you miss your homeland? And what do you like about life in America?
I miss my homeland very much. Although I was born and raised in Moscow, my homeland is Azerbaijan. America is a country of immigrants. People of hundreds of nationalities live here, and the locals generally treat foreigners well. There are pros: the opportunity to learn the language, because in practice you can learn the language even from 0; high wages and living standards. Also, there are same-sex marriages allowed – no one will discuss or condemn them. In America, those things are allowed that are prohibited by Russian law. I lived in Russia for 21 years, and I often faced the disapprobation of the people who did not accept my nation, my appearance. Therefore I had to move from Russia. I feel comfortable in America.
What does a typical day in your week look like?
At home, I am an exemplary wife who cooks for my husband. On weekends, we go to a restaurant and spend time together. In America, I found friends with whom I spend time – we go shopping and get along great.
Who takes the majority of your photos?
Most of my photos are taken by my husband. When my husband is not around, I take pictures of myself (a tripod to help).
Can you name some of your favorite bloggers?
As such, I have no favorite bloggers. Because every day, I think about my blog: to take pictures of something interesting for my subscribers.
What would you say is the #1 key to success on Instagram?
You need to be yourself. Тeed to think, it’s not enough just to post photos and like everyone. You need regularly share useful information. You need to publish posts from 17:00 to 21:00 – this is the peak of attendance. Use the location, and don’t forget about hashtags.
Why do you think your family was so much against the blog that you had to delete your page?
Social media is a place where we often express our resentment about something. We talk about our lives. So, I think because of a lot of pressure from relatives. Among my relatives, I was the first to start with an open page on Instagram. And for them, it was something unreal and inappropriate. In their concept, a girl should stay at home to do household chores and not see her friends. I was worried since Instagram was my second family.
How does your family react to your blogging now?
My family now responds positively to my blog. I managed to explain to them that there is nothing wrong with that. After all, this is my favorite hobby, which gives me pleasure.
If not Instagram, then what? What offline business options would you consider for yourself?
Over time, I plan to move to another platform – TikTok, as I started to learn a lot. Thanks to this platform, I was able to create quality videos. I do not consider these platforms as a business – the main thing for me is to learn a lot of needed information and share it with my audience.
What is your favorite part of Instagram?
Create beautiful looks that will inspire other people.
What are you inspired by?
Others motivate me. Most often, this is my mom. She knows how to choose the right words and arguments to awaken the desire to achieve more and more. I am always inspired by the quote: “Do today what others do not want. Tomorrow you will live in a way that others cannot”.
Do you have a day off from social media? If so, how do you prefer to spend your free time?
Once a week, I want to take a break from social networks – so, I take a day off. At this moment, I want to spend time with benefits. I prefer a day off with my husband and my family.
What makes you happy?
I have parents whom no one will ever replace, a beloved family, and my husband’s support makes me happy. There is nothing more important than seeing support next to you.
What do you want to achieve in a couple of years?
Moving forward in blogging. Get better and learn to create fascinating content. Travel the world and be an exemplary mother to my children.
