Image Credit: https://www.instagram.com/lilliebernie/
Lillie Bernie’s journey from model to celebrated artist and entrepreneur provides a masterclass in using social media to build a successful venture to progress and grow an innovative business.
Lillie has shown how leveraging online platforms specifically, can turn a creative passion into a lucrative business, with her six-figure glitter-art brand, The Glitter Store gaining the attention and adoration of celebrities and a growing global clientele.
If she understands one thing, Lillie understands how to grow a business in a niche, but what lessons can other budding entrepreneurs learn from her journey?
Finding a Niche
Bernie’s success began by recognising a niche in custom artwork.
She combined her love for aesthetically pleasing art with an eye-catching, glitter-infused approach that transforms personal photographs into vibrant, sparkling pieces.
While wedding and bridal photos became particularly popular with her clients, starting with one of her best friends who fell in love with her glittered photo instantly, her distinctive style quickly expanded to appeal to a broader audience, including public figures like Amanda Holden and the Hilton family.
Building Awareness Through Instagram
Instagram played a crucial role in Bernie’s growth.
Recognising its potential early on, Lillie consistently shared her work on the platform, carefully curating her feed with images of her art, the creative process and testimonials from satisfied clients, influencers, friends and celebrities alike.
With her unique aesthetic, she attracted significant attention, allowing her to reach an extensive audience without significant marketing costs, including being shared by influencers and even having her work appear on ITV’s This Morning.
Followers started sharing her creations, and this organic spread significantly amplified her brand’s reach. Each time a celebrity or influencer posted about her work, her profile surged with new followers and enquiries.
Collaborations and Client Sharing
Client referrals and endorsements are essential for any small business, and social media facilitated this on a grand scale for Bernie.
By strategically partnering with influencers and encouraging clients to post her work, she maximised visibility and credibility. Positive posts from prominent clients acted as word-of-mouth marketing, each post carrying her brand to new potential customers who resonated with her style.
The Power of Authenticity
Bernie’s story underscores the importance of authenticity on social media. Her posts convey not only her work but her journey, struggles and dedication to her craft.
This transparency humanised her brand and made it relatable, drawing more engagement and building a community around her art. For Bernie, the power of authenticity proved that potential clients value a genuine story behind the art they purchase.
Adapting to Changing Demand
Lillie Bernie also demonstrates the importance of adapting one’s business model to meet evolving trends and demand.
She capitalised on social media’s visual nature and on her audience’s appetite for personalised, memorable artwork. By tailoring her content and offerings to reflect these values, she has consistently ensured that her brand remains relevant and in demand and her name and reputation grows.
What Can Entrepreneurs Learn From Lillie?
- Identify a Unique Niche: Bernie’s success shows the value of filling a gap with a creative product, especially one that captures emotion and personalisation
- Use Social Media Strategically: Instagram and influencer culture were essential to Bernie’s journey. For those with limited budgets, organic growth through consistent posting and engagement with clients is invaluable.
- Foster Client Relationships: Each client is a potential promoter. Building relationships and encouraging satisfied customers to share their experiences creates a network of advocates.
- Be Authentic and Transparent: Sharing more than the product, such as insights into your passion and struggles builds trust and deepens client loyalty.
- Adapt and Stay Engaged: Keeping up with trends and engaging followers keeps the business agile and connected to its audience.
Lillie Bernie’s story shows how social media can be more than a tool—it can be a launchpad for a thriving, sustainable business when combined with creativity, consistency, and a strong personal brand.
