Ana Salles
Ana Salles
Creative Strategist / Content Specialist
New York, NY
www.anasalles.me
instagram @anasallesnyc
twitter @anasallesnyc
instagram @magiacreative
linkedin
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I am a multi-faceted Creative & Content Strategist with a knack for creative direction, strategy, content production, user experience, and storytelling.”
For the last decade, I’ve worked with Fortune 50 companies and startups across industries managing the creative development process from ideation through execution. Some of my past clients include Meta, Instagram, WhatsApp, PayPal, OLAY and The Museum of Ice Cream. Currently, I am based in South California.
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
As a Fashion Business major and a Fashion Merchandising / Marketing postgraduate, I began my career in fashion editorial and trend forecasting in New York and Sao Paulo, Brazil. I built a reputation as an expert in the field, serving as the Brazilian trend correspondent for reputable organizations such as Fashion Snoops, Trendland, Stylesight and WGSN. in 2012, I joined the renowned Brazilian digital magazine, Site by Gloria Kalil, where I led the 'How to Wear' and Beauty column, and had the privilege of interviewing industry icons such as Diane Von Furtenberger, Tory Burch, Karlie Kloss and Iris Apfel .While managing their Instagram account, I saw the opportunity to offer my social and content expertise to fashion houses and emerging designers to help them grow their businesses. Leveraging my expertise in social media and content, I began offering consulting services to fashion houses and emerging designers to help them grow their businesses. In 2016, I moved back to New York City and have been working with creative and advertising agencies and continuing to consult for fashion and beauty brands until 2020, when I transitioned to the technology world and joined Meta (formerly Facebook) as a Content Strategist on the Content Development team. I've worked with creative and advertising agencies and tech clients since then.
How do you stand out in your field?
Throughout my career, I have found that my intuition, curiosity, and ability to spot industry trends and opportunities have guided me. My curiosity has driven me to continuously research and learn about new technologies, design and cultural trends, allowing me to identify new opportunities for growth and advancement. My experience in trend forecasting also helped me anticipate changes in the marketplace and stay ahead of the curve, enabling me to make strategic decisions that have positively impacted my career. As a self-taught individual, I am constantly striving to grow and improve. I take a proactive approach to learning, constantly seeking out new resources and opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills. Whether it's reading industry-related books, listening to podcasts, taking online classes, or attending seminars and workshops, I am dedicated to staying at the forefront of my field. My self-taught approach and dedication to continuous learning have played a significant role in my professional development and have allowed me to adapt and excel in various roles throughout my career.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
Currently, I am engaged in a diverse range of projects that combine my passion for brand marketing and my commitment to social impact. I have collaborated with leading creative agencies and technology firms, including BUCK, Meta, Sparks & Honey, and Hornet, to develop cutting-edge brand marketing campaigns. Additionally, I have taken on a number of initiatives aimed at raising awareness of the climate crisis and empowering individuals to take action. I am also developing brand activation ideas that promote wellness and well-being.
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
The minimal and retro styles of design, along with a touch of surrealism, are my favorites. I am also drawn to earthy design aesthetics because of my connection to nature.
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
Whether it is content marketing series, social partnerships, or physical brand activation, I enjoy developing creative solutions and ideating campaigns.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
It would be great to collaborate more with brands that focus on social-impact initiatives and in the health & wellness space, which match my interests and lifestyle. My goal is to use my skills and expertise to help causes and people in need. Sadly, there are a lot of green-washing and purpose washing campaigns by large organizations that aren't changing their business practices harming the planet.
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
I don't know. Maybe a Chat GPT assistant?
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
My younger self would have appreciated my realization that success isn't about high salaries, titles, or Instagram followers. It is about making a positive impact on others' lives, having good relationships and a sense of community, maintaining a balanced work-life schedule and taking care of my body, mind and soul.
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
I'd love to connect with creative and social entrepreneurs in the wellness, health & nutrition, psychedelics and tech industries. I also feel inspired to meet female creatives and entrepreneurs making waves.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
I am interested in working with brands and agencies on social-impact initiatives and brand experiences that blend the physical and digital worlds. Also, I am available to consult on content and social media projects.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL JOB/CLIENT/COLLABORATION.
Design-driven and innovative companies across the health & wellness, food & nutrition, tech and beauty industries.
WHAT IS YOUR HOURLY RATE, RETAINER, OR SALARY RANGE?
It depends on the project. I prefer to discuss it with my clients.
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
Stalk me on LinkedIn and say hello.
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
Living nomadic for the past three years gave me the opportunity to find inspiration in nature and different cultures. Meditating, journaling, and drawing also help me to stay creative. Connecting with others, looking through Instagram creators, attending art shows, listening to podcasts, reading inspirational books, learning new skills are some other ways that keep me in my creative flow.
This member profile was originally published in October 2019, Updated January 2023.