How Celestyal used influencers to increase bookings and brand visibility

Brand Snapshot

Celestyal Cruises is known for something a lot of cruise lines don’t always get right: a genuinely authentic, destination-focused experience.

Their trips revolve around culture, people, food, and the feeling of actually being in the places you visit, not just passing through them.

The company operates with smaller ships, as they don't really talk about the number of people working for them much but more pride upon their smaller more intimate ships.

Celestyal sits firmly in the cruise travel space, attracting curious travellers aged 30 and over who want something more personal than the typical mega-ship experience.

These are people who love exploring local traditions, trying new cuisines, and taking home something more meaningful than a postcard.

And while Celestyal has long had a strong reputation offline, the digital travel world has changed fast.

Travellers now book after seeing videos, hearing recommendations, or spotting a creator’s experience online. That shift opened up a huge opportunity for Celestyal.

Leading the charge is Sebastien Pelisse, Manager of Trade & Influencer Marketing.

He was tasked with expanding the brand’s online presence, building visibility, and finding a more modern way to inspire bookings.

On influencer marketing, Seb said:

“It sits in our direct marketing strategy. What we try to do more with influencers is the conversion bits. So we want to see bookings and we want to see people visiting our website.”


The Challenge

Before shifting to a new approach, Celestyal faced a few key hurdles.

They needed more bookings, so their biggest priority was driving more conversions.

Traditional marketing was solid, but not enough on its own, not in a world where most travellers now discover trips through creators or social media.

They needed a bigger, better library of high-quality, authentic content. Not glossy, scripted ads, but real people capturing moments travellers could relate to.

Working with individual influencers was expensive. One-off partnerships, high fees and long negotiations all added up quickly.

Most of their previous influencer work came through PR outreach or cold DMs. It took ages to coordinate, and Seb was building the influencer side of the business alone. The method wasn’t scalable.

They needed a wider pool of creators and a smoother way to run campaigns without stretching budgets further.

“We had to find something flexible and affordable, and The Influence Room gave us the flexibility, with managing campaigns and looking for influencers.”

 

The Turning Point

Before choosing The Influence Room, Celestyal also considered other agencies. However, nothing offered the combination of cost efficiency, scale, variety, and genuine creator interest.

The decision came down to authenticity and value.

Creators applying organically meant the content would feel real and not forced.

The platform opened the door to a much larger pool of creators, which meant more styles, more audiences, and more chances to inspire the right travellers.

“It could have been something organic. And this is what we wanted and this is what I wanted because the result behind was so much better. It was exponential to what we were expecting, because it doesn’t feel like an ad.”

 

Strategic Content

For Seb and the team, influencer marketing wasn’t just another channel, it was a way to show the reality of the Celestyal experience.

Real cabins, real food, real destinations, real passengers.

The main goal was clear:

Travel is emotional, and social content is one of the most powerful tools for pulling people in.

A single creator video showing a sunset on deck or a small taverna in Mykonos does more than a polished brochure ever could.

Before working with The Influence Room, Celestyal were already thinking about how they could step into this space more confidently.

Especially as they saw other travel brands using creators to inspire large numbers of new guests.

The Experience

Once Celestyal joined The Influence Room, the difference was immediate.

Seb described the setup as straightforward and stress-free.

Instead of juggling spreadsheets, email chains, and slow approvals, everything moved into one place.

Campaign briefs went out quickly. Pitches came in fast. And reviewing creators took mere minutes.

One of the biggest wins was the sheer variety of creators.

From couples documenting their travels to solo adventurers showing day-in-the-life clips onboard.

The mix gave Celestyal exactly what they’d been missing: honest, diverse content that travellers trust.

The assets they received weren’t just pretty, they were useful. Quality content became a library the team could tap into and re-use again and again on multiple platforms.

For a travel brand, this kind of evergreen content is priceless.

A big surprise was how deeply the creators captured the essence of Celestyal with local flavours, warm service, and the unique feeling of exploring smaller, culture-rich ports.

The team saw audiences responding not just to the visuals, but the storytelling.

Stakeholders quickly recognised the value. The volume of content. The quality. The increase in visibility.

Seb, who was managing influencer marketing alone, was suddenly able to run large campaigns without the usual overwhelm.

Seb also highlighted how easy it was to work with the TIR team on the platform. In his words:

“It was made really easy, you get like a whole platform that's simple and easy to use, and you’ve got a massive base of creators. It's just perfect. And behind this, they handle measuring results, doing the reports, all the analysis we need”

The campaigns felt organised, collaborative, and energising, far from the manual work of their old process.

Since working with The Influence Room, Celestyal has seen numerous successes.

The two brands were nominated together for the Travel Creator Marketing Campaign of the Year at the 2025 bCreator awards, essentially the Oscars for creators.

That campaign in question was none other than the cruise across the Arabian Gulf, filled with desert adventures, traditional souks, dolphin watching and the typical glitz and glamour.

The campaign was a phenomenal success with 7.7M reach and 9.3M impressions from only 12 influencers.

The Results

Across four campaigns, Celestyal achieved results that genuinely shifted their digital presence:

For a brand stepping into influencer marketing at scale, these numbers were a major leap forward.

The Heavenly 7 Night Med Cruise delivered extraordinary results:

What made this campaign special wasn’t just the numbers.

The creators captured the emotion of travel, the warmth of Greek hospitality, and the magic of Mediterranean destinations.

With more bookings coming in, a richer visual library, and an engaged digital audience, there was full confidence internally to continue investing in influencer marketing.

“The results we thought did really well, and were amazing! We had a boost in bookings off the back of our first campaign, which was really well perceived.”

 

Standout Creator Moment

One creator who had a huge impact was Saffron Rose.

Her content felt effortlessly humorous and  that showed what travelling with Celestyal actually feels like with a light-hearted twist.

Her results speak for themselves:

Her videos didn’t try to be picture perfect. They were honest, inviting and offered something different. And that authenticity resonated.

 

Conclusion

Celestyal’s move into influencer marketing shows the power of real storytelling in travel.

By embracing creators who love exploring the world, they didn’t just increase visibility.

They built trust, inspired new travellers, and created a content library that keeps performing campaign after campaign.

Celestyal has firmly established itself as a brand that understands modern travel behaviour.

To conclude Seb said:

“I feel like any brand who wants to work on a gifted basis should reach out to The Influence Room. They can help them get people interested, and give them standout content.”

For travel brands looking to build brand awareness the way Celestyal did, you can explore how to elevate your brand or learn how to find the right influencers to connect with your audience.

Book a demo with The Influence Room and discover how creator partnerships can reshape your marketing.

How Canterbury generated 1.8m reach for the British & Irish Lions

Brand Snapshot

Canterbury has been part of rugby for so long, the brand is one of those names you grow up with.

Maybe it was the first kit you wore at school, maybe it was the jersey your parents bought before a big match, or maybe it’s still the stuff you throw on for training.

They’ve been involved at every level of the game, from muddy community pitches right up to the huge international fixtures.

The company itself is only between 201-500  people, but they’ve managed to stay firmly rooted in the rugby world.

Their audience is anyone who loves the sport: kids just starting out, weekend warriors, die-hard fans who’ve followed the same team their whole life.

What ties all these people together is the same set of values rugby is built on: tradition, honesty, community, and a sense of belonging.

That’s why Canterbury stands out. Their kit isn’t just another bit of sportswear, it feels like part of the sport’s history and tradition.

They’ve earned trust across professional teams and grassroots sides, and they’ve been a big part of bridging the gap as women’s rugby continues to grow at speed.

For fans, the shirt isn’t just something you buy, it’s something you feel part of.

The British & Irish Lions squad announcement is always a major moment in the rugby calendar, and Canterbury wanted to make sure people didn’t just watch it, they wanted them to feel it.

They wanted fans, especially younger audiences, to share that pride, put on the jersey, and be part of something bigger.

That’s where influencer marketing came in.


The Challenge

thatsportspice

Before they made the shift, Canterbury found themselves at a crossroads.

They had heritage, credibility, and a huge legacy behind them.

But visibility among younger audiences and even among casual rugby fans needed a boost.

With the world of sport ever-evolving, Canterbury wanted to make sure they stayed on people’s minds, particularly during major moments like the Lions announcement.

The main challenges were:

1. Growing their online presence

The brand wanted to reach beyond the traditional rugby crowd and get more people excited about the shirt, the squad, and what it represents. They needed fresh visibility in a crowded space.

2. Creating inspiring, fan-led content

Supporters aren’t just looking for official imagery anymore, they want real people showing real reactions. Canterbury wanted content that felt genuine, not overly branded.

3. Reconnecting with younger fans

Rugby is evolving, and the next generation consumes the sport differently. Canterbury knew this was the moment to make younger audiences feel part of the Lions story.

4. Building a bigger library of authentic assets

They needed more depth, more variety, and content that didn’t expire after a single campaign.

The “before” feeling was that they were doing good work, but not reaching as far or as deeply as they could.

They wanted every fan across the four nations to feel directly connected to the squad announcement,  that sense of belonging the Lions are known for.

Something had to shift.

 

The Turning Point

The real switch came when the team realised that traditional content alone wasn’t enough. They needed something more dynamic and more fan-led.

They wanted supporters to feel proud when they wore the jersey and to see people they relate to wearing it too.

That sense of shared pride is powerful, and it spreads much faster when creators are part of the narrative.

The trigger moment was recognising that influencer-generated content could deliver what they were missing: wider awareness, emotional storytelling, and a route to audiences who live on social platforms.

With The Influence Room, the value was immediately clear, they could get far more variety, far more reach, and far more authentic storytelling for the same investment.

What convinced the team was the simple fact that social media is a huge part of fandom now.

Fans want to feel close to the squad, and creators help build that bridge in a way brands simply can’t do alone.

The Influence Room offered the right mix of volume, relevance, and connection.

 

Strategic Content

The squad announcement for the British & Irish Lions is a cultural event as much as a sporting one.

Canterbury wanted to make it louder, wider, and more emotionally charged by tapping into social media, where the rugby conversation is happening every day, especially with younger supporters.

Their goal was simple but powerful:
Build brand awareness around the announcement and give the new jersey the attention it deserved.

The brand realised pretty quickly that social media isn’t just a place to push out updates anymore.

It’s where fans actually find things, talk about them, argue about them, and show support for the teams they’re obsessed with.

And with the Lions bringing together four nations under one badge, there was a real chance to build something that felt genuinely shared and that came from the fans as much as it was made for them.

Influencer marketing offered reach, personality, and authenticity.

It let everyday fans and rugby advocates tell the story from their own point of view, instead of relying solely on big campaigns or polished studio content.

For Canterbury, this wasn’t about chasing trends. It was about giving supporters more ways to feel involved.

The Experience

ashlifecoach

Once Canterbury launched the campaign through The Influence Room, things moved quickly and naturally.

The platform made it straightforward to get the campaign moving.

Briefs, creator selection, approvals, it all slotted smoothly into their marketing process. No heavy admin. No long delays. Just a clean setup that saved the team time and opened up a new way of working.

The creators weren’t random influencers, they were rugby fans, lifestyle creators, fitness advocates, and people who understood what the Lions represent.

Their passion translated directly into the content. Supporters could see it wasn’t just a paid post. It was genuine excitement and social proof.

The mix of creators meant the campaign reached audiences across different corners of social media, such as TikTok, Instagram, YouTube Shorts, reels, reaction videos, quick unboxings, styling content, and even family-focused posts.

An unexpected win was seeing how many fans engaged not just with the creators, but with Canterbury itself.

People were talking about the shirt, tagging friends, sharing anticipation for the squad, and showing their own connection to the team.

The response inside the business was overwhelmingly positive. The team could feel how the campaign changed the energy around the launch.

Supporters felt included. Younger fans felt spoken to. And Canterbury gained a new layer of relevance online.

The Influence Room team behind the platform helped streamline the process making it far easier for Canterbury to focus on storytelling rather than logistics.

With everything coming together it felt like the right partnership at the right time.

The Results

The "British & Irish Lions Rugby Shirt" campaign exceeded expectations across the board with:

For a campaign tied to a single moment like the squad announcement, the scale and depth of the content made a real impact.

The assets weren’t just high-performing, they felt personal. Real fans wearing the shirt. Real reactions. Real excitement.

Internal confidence surged as well. Stakeholders could clearly see how influencer marketing contributed to the growing excitement and recognition around the launch.

 

Standout Creator Moment

One creator who made a huge mark on the campaign was Oliver Phelps.

His posts generated an incredible response:

His content found the  perfect balance between his personality and rugby pride.

Fans loved seeing a recognisable figure sharing the moment of the squad announcement and kit launch in such an authentic, relatable way.

“I really enjoyed working with Canterbury on this campaign, they were very easy to work with and provided the rugby shirt very promptly.” - Oliver

Conclusion

Canterbury’s work with the British & Irish Lions is a good example of what happens when a long-standing rugby brand opens itself up to how fans actually talk online and share moments today.

They brought creators into the mix, the people who already live and breathe the sport. That didn’t just get more eyes on the launch; it made supporters feel closer to the players and created a real buzz around the new jersey.

The results speak for themselves: over 1.8M people reached and 2.4M impressions. More importantly, it delivered the kind of scale, energy, and honesty the launch needed.

For Canterbury, it signalled a shift,  moving towards a style of communication that feels more connected to the fans and the wider rugby community.

Does your brand want to build deeper visibility and reach new audiences through creators?

Explore how to elevate your brand, learn how to find the right influencers, and discover how brand ambassadors can transform long-term awareness.

Ready to build your next standout campaign?

Book a demo with The Influence Room and see how creator partnerships can move your brand forward.

How Coopers increased brand exposure with 279K impressions

Brand Snapshot

Coopers of Stortford has been a familiar name in British homes for decades.

Known for its mix of traditional home essentials and innovative products, the brand has carved out a loyal customer base who value the way they make daily life easier.

Coopers has a team of 51-200 employees and sits in the home and garden retail sector with an audience of predominantly adults aged 30–40.

Mums and homeowners looking for everyday household items are their bread and butter; These customers want products that work, last, and feel thoughtfully designed.

But while their catalogue has always performed well offline, the digital space represented a huge opportunity, one the team knew they needed to step into more confidently.

Leading that effort was Kay Hutcheson, Head of Product Marketing, whose focus has been strengthening brand visibility, expanding online reach, and growing an engaged social community.

As Kay put it:

“We’ve always had such a large range of products that we need to get out there and be seen.”

For Kay and the marketing team, Coopers’ products have always spoken for themselves.

The challenge was making sure more people heard them, and more eyes were on what they were producing.


The Challenge

 

Like many home and garden retailers navigating the digital shift, Coopers faced a few hurdles.

They had a strong offline presence, but struggled to translate that into digital recognition. 

In a competitive retail market filled with large household names, it was easy for their products to get overshadowed.

Traditional channels weren’t just expensive, they didn’t offer the variety of content the team needed. The costs were not matching the output.

Coopers needed assets that could live beyond a single campaign for social posts, ads, and seasonal promotions. They wanted content libraries they could build over time.

Their customer base meant they needed creators who naturally aligned with their demographic, not just anyone with a large following.

Overall, Coopers were struggling to grow their online name recognition. 

They were a small company in comparison to bigger competitors, and with a selective audience, they needed an approach that stretched their budget further while amplifying brand awareness.

They weren’t just searching for exposure. They were searching for the right exposure.

As Kay summed it up:

“With you guys it's a lot more authentic and we get that exposure, on Instagram, on Facebook, and on Tik Tok which we wouldn't get from the other influencers.”

 

The Turning Point

The turning point came when the team realised their existing approach just wasn’t moving the needle online.

They needed more eyes on the brand, more regular content, and an easier way to share their story without stretching the team too thin.

That’s when Kay spotted the gap.

Influencer-generated content could give them something freelancers couldn’t: more volume, more variety, and the bonus of creators sharing the content with their own audiences.

They’d used freelancers before, but the costs were similar to The Influence Room and the output didn’t come close.

The team was paying the same but walking away with far fewer assets.

Transitioning to The Influence Room meant:

The decision came down to value and efficiency.

The platform gave them access to a wide pool of creators, each producing unique, reusable content, something freelancers simply couldn’t match in volume.

What convinced them to act was simple:

“We realised we could get even more content for the same cost and we were able to carve out more of a social brand, which we didn't have previously, which has been quite nice.”

 

Strategic Content

Before using creators, online brand exposure was something of an untapped territory for Coopers.

Their traditional customer base was strong, but social media offered something they couldn’t ignore: visibility, relevance, and ongoing interaction with new audiences.

Kay and the team knew that building brand exposure wasn’t just a “nice to have” it was a necessary part of modern retail.

The goal was clear:

Influencer marketing became the natural next step.

Coopers didn’t want polished ad-style partnerships, they needed real creators producing real content that could live on their social channels long after campaigns ended.

It wasn’t just about reach. It was about brand exposure that felt genuine.

The Experience

Once they joined The Influence Room, Kay described the platform setup as refreshing.

Everything was clear, intuitive, and built for marketers who need results without endless admin.

Campaigns that previously took hours to organise were now handled in minutes.

Uploading briefs, reviewing pitches and approving creators fit naturally into their workflow, saving the team valuable time.

The creators delivered exactly what Coopers had been searching for: beautiful, evergreen content that could be repurposed across channels.

From product demos to cosy winter lifestyle shots, creators showcased items in real homes, offering far more authenticity than studio content ever could.

The team quickly noticed an added bonus: creators were posting content that looked organic, relatable, and trustworthy.

This wasn’t just exposure; it was social proof, an area Coopers had been eager to strengthen.

The reaction internally was immediate. Stakeholders were genuinely impressed by how quickly the content came through and how visible the brand suddenly became online.

Having such a steady stream of creator-made assets took a huge weight off the marketing team. 

Instead of constantly trying to produce content themselves, they finally had the space to focus on the bigger picture and plan ahead.

For a small team, that shift made a massive difference.

Coopers also highlighted how helpful The Influence Room team was throughout the process. Campaigns felt smoother, easier, and more organised than anything they had run before.

“The platform has worked very well for us, definitely for the UGC content you get a lot more quality content for the price tag.”

Influencer marketing had felt like a big leap, but The Influence Room made it feel effortless.

The Results

The “Winter Warmers” campaign became a turning point for Coopers’ online visibility.

Across 10 campaigns, the cumulative results were:

For a brand stepping into influencer marketing more seriously, these numbers represented a major leap forward.

The spotlight Winter Warmers campaign produced:

This wasn’t just surface-level awareness. 

Coopers saw stronger audience interaction, better recognition across social platforms, and a noticeable lift in followers who resonated with the warm, relatable content creators posted.

Confidence grew quickly. Teams could see the direct benefit influencer marketing brought to the table, especially the high volume of quality assets that could fuel marketing activity for months.

Without The Influence Room, Kay said:

“If we weren't working with you, we probably would have spent another couple months floundering around for a bit figuring out what we were doing, being super behind on video content creation.”

But they did not have to worry…

With their online presence strengthened and brand exposure growing, it became easy for leadership to approve continued budget toward creator-driven campaigns.

 

Standout Creator Moment

One creator who really stood out during the Winter Warmers campaign was Sylwia Wasik.

The way she shared Coopers’ products felt completely natural, like someone showing what they actually use in their home, rather than a staged photoshoot.

Sylwia delivered:

She posted about winter essentials in her own space, with warm lighting, small family moments in the background, and rooms that felt lived-in.

It resonated deeply  with audiences because it felt like it came from someone who genuinely used and enjoyed the products.

 

Conclusion

Coopers’ move into influencer marketing shows what can happen when a traditional retail brand tries something a bit different.

Working with creators didn’t just put their name in front of more people.

It helped them build trust with their audience, get people genuinely interacting with the brand, and create a stash of content they can keep using long after a campaign finishes.

It’s the kind of work that keeps giving, rather than disappearing the moment the campaign ends.

From 279K impressions in a single flagship campaign to more than 1M cumulative reach, the results reflect a brand that has successfully expanded its digital footprint and evolved.

For Coopers, The Influence Room didn’t just provide influencers. It provided momentum and the brand exposure they were ultimately seeking.

If you want to elevate your brand like Coopers of Stortford, book a demo with us at The Influence Room today for unforgettable results and a bank of even more beautiful content!

How La Redoute Got 465k Impressions From 9 Influencers

Brand Snapshot

La Redoute has been a leading name in French fashion and homeware since its inception in 1837, balancing style with affordability for modern consumers.

Their target audience? Style-conscious homeowners and fashion lovers who are looking for quality pieces that don’t break the bank.

So how do they make it feel real? Enter influencer marketing. It’s authentic. It’s relatable. It’s how La Redoute’s style connects with daily lives, through already trusted voices.

At the heart of this strategy was Elizabeth Barnett, Marketing Executive at La Redoute, who plays a key role in shaping how the brand connects with its audience.


The Challenge

stylesofsophie_ back to work

La Redoute had seen considerable success with influencer campaigns, but after a while, the results started to plateau. 

The same creators were showing up time and again, and while their content was good, a change was needed.

Most deals came through agencies. Unpredictable costs. And the packages left little room to test or try new things.

Money went out. Fresh ideas didn’t always come back. Agencies delivered a set number of posts from select influencers, but they weren’t always the right fit for La Redoute’s audience.

The stakes became pretty high. Without new voices and original content, campaigns risked fading into the background, making it harder to prove the spending was worth it.

And as talent agency fees kept rising, it became harder to argue that the return justified the cost.

Elizabeth remembers the frustration of getting good-quality consumer-generated content in return for social agency retainers:

Elizabeth went on to say, 

“It’s not always about the performance of the campaign; it's the assets that we’re getting back.”

 

The Turning Point

Instead of searching for alternative agencies, La Redoute turned to The Influence Room.

Why?

Unlike the old agency model, The Influence Room gives brands control and transparency. La Redoute’s team can:

It wasn’t just about cutting costs. It was a strategic shift. La Redoute wanted influencer marketing to be a long-term growth outlet, not just a short-term experiment.

 

Strategic Content

tammy_personal_stylist back to work

For La Redoute, influencer marketing shifted from “nice to have” to a must-have. It is a key way to connect across both fashion and home.

Elizabeth and her team saw why it mattered: audiences trust creators who share real, everyday moments. Polished ads alone weren’t enough.

They saw an opportunity to:

As Elizabeth puts it, La Redoute “always had influencer activity within their plan” and now has access to a bank of quality content to use.

“We never had that before. We previously used influencers through agencies, so we never had direct or paid access to that.”

It’s no longer just about engagement. It’s about building a content library they can tap anytime.

For a brand spanning fashion, interiors, and lifestyle, this shift means every campaign works harder and keeps paying off long after it goes live.

The Experience

Onboarding with The Influence Room was smooth from day one.

The internal shift was instant. Content volume grew. Quality jumped. Brand noise picked up.

Elizabeth highlights the ease of using The Influence Room:

“It's just streamlined. It's not messy. It shows us what we want to see, even from the bids coming in. From that point of view, it makes my job a lot easier.”

This wasn’t only about content. It was about confidence. The team finally had a model that delivered predictable results while leaving room to experiment.

Elizabeth puts it simply:

“If you've got the budget to spend on gifting, why wouldn't you do it? If your brand is prioritising content, then it's a no-brainer.”

La Redoute’s marketing team felt empowered, with the tools and flexibility to make every campaign work harder.

The Results

One of La Redoute’s standout wins was the “Back to Work” campaign. The brief was to find home and fashion creators to show off back-to-work style.

La Redoute offered two routes for influencers: 

The campaign exceeded expectations, especially compared to previous agency-led campaigns.

Elizabeth reflects on why the old model wasn’t working:

“We often felt tied in with the same agencies, which kept referring to the same creators. It became restrictive, and when you’re paying for content, it was expensive for what we were getting back; you expect more variety.”

The internal wins mattered just as much as the campaign results themselves:

Elizabeth says it best:

“I could see it working for anyone. Honestly, it's adaptable to any brand. It's opened my eyes to how bigger brands work.”

La Redoute has since built on that success with campaigns like “Linen Fashion” and “In Good Company.” Together with “Back to Work,” they’ve proven the power of The Influence Room to scale results:

La Redoute isn’t just running influencer campaigns anymore; it’s dominating the space.

Standout Creator Moments

A standout voice for the ‘Back to Work’ campaign was Kate Seddon. Her content clicked instantly with both La Redoute’s team and her audience.

Kate styled La Redoute pieces in a way that felt effortless, showing how easily the brand works for home and office life alike.

Her results spoke for themselves:

Kate’s content didn’t just drive numbers. It gave La Redoute fresh assets they could reuse across channels that were authentic, polished, and on brand.

“I really loved working with La Redoute on the Back to Work campaign. It can be hard to find stylish office wear, but their pieces were of such great quality and felt so easy to style day to day, which made creating content around them really fun and engaging. It was a really positive experience working with them from start to finish."

Kate’s content was visual proof of the campaign’s success: authentic, stylish, and reusable.

 

Conclusion

La Redoute’s journey with The Influence Room shows how the right shift in strategy can reshape influencer marketing and unlock a new level of content and community.

What started as a need for fresh creators, better ROI, and more content has turned into a clear blueprint for long-term growth.

The results speak for themselves: stronger engagement, a reliable content library, and a marketing team confident in future campaigns.

As Elizabeth concludes:

“It really was a lightbulb moment for us when it came to content. We suddenly realised, this is how the big brands are doing it. And then it clicked: okay, this is achievable, we can actually do this too.”

So if you are looking to elevate your brand with campaigns that are easy to manage and genuine creator connections, The Influence Room is the place for you.

Book a demo today and see how far your next campaign can go!

How Rubies Masquerade boosted their brand identity with 820k impressions

Brand Snapshot

Rubies Masquerade isn’t just a costume company. They’re the world’s largest designer and manufacturer of costumes and accessories. Their costumes have been at the centre of countless parties, conventions, and trick-or-treat memories for decades. 

Rubies’ audience really does cover everyone: kids who dream of being Barbie or Spider-Man for a day, parents planning birthday parties, adults getting ready for fancy-dress nights, and even cosplayers who go all out to create something unforgettable.

Even if you didn’t know the name, chances are you’ve worn their magic.

What makes Rubies unique is their ethos. They’re committed to authentically inspiring imagination, helping fans step into a different world while holding themselves to strong ethical standards in design and production.

For Ciara, Marketing Manager, and Helen Pagden, Senior Graphic Designer, that mission runs through everything. 

Their role isn’t about simply pushing costumes. It’s about ensuring Rubies’ brand is recognised as the creative, trusted home of dress-up fun.


Strategic Content

the.southend.mummy Rubies Masquerade

Rubies knew costumes alone weren’t enough. 

To truly grow, they needed to strengthen their brand identity to make sure people connected the magic of costume with the Rubies Masquerade name.

And in today’s landscape, that meant leaning into influencer marketing.

For Helen and Ciara, influencers were essential. Traditional advertising could show off costumes in a shoot. But creators could do something different: bring those costumes to life in real, relatable ways.

A parent filming their kids running around the living room as superheroes. A cosplayer showcasing the detail of an outfit. A TikTok creator transforming into their favourite character in seconds.

Those moments weren’t ads. They were authentic stories. Exactly the kind of content that sparks brand awareness and builds trust.

As Helen explained:

“Influencer marketing is definitely the perfect marketing strategy that aligns both our desire for disruptive industry-leading content and our ability to reach consumers.”

For Rubies, influencer marketing was the stage they needed to shine on to boost their brand awareness to new levels.

 

The Challenge

Rubies wished to grow their brand recognition; they prioritised their licenses and brands over bigger retailers. To most consumers, a Spider-Man suit was just a Spider-Man suit, not a Rubies creation.

That caused some real challenges:

The stakes were high. Rubies wanted the chance to connect directly with fans and grow long-term loyalty through their content.

Helen and Ciara wanted Rubies to be seen as more than just the costume provider. They wanted Rubies to stand as a brand in its own right:

“Your average customer won't necessarily know the Rubies brand. So, the influencers are really helping get the Rubies' name out there as opposed to just a Star Wars costume or a Marvel costume.”

 

The Turning Point

the_mum_diary Rubies Masquerade

The turning point came when the team looked into their current influencer activity.

They’d touched on this before, having reached out to influencers manually. But the process was too fiddly; too much time spent on DMs, contracts, and admin, and too much effort for not enough payoff.

What they needed was a platform that could connect them with the right creators with ease and give them the visibility boost they were looking for.

That’s when they discovered The Influence Room.

And the decision was instant.

“Completely transparently, we weren't scouting at that point in time. We weren't doing market research and investigating various channels. It was a pitch that just wowed us, and we decided to go with that.” – Ciara

With The Influence Room, Rubies finally had a partner who could make boosting brand awareness and notoriety smooth, efficient, and scalable.

The Experience

The difference was obvious from the very first campaign.

The setup was simple. The platform was very clear, concise, and organised. Instead of weeks of prep, the Rubies team could get a campaign live in hours.

Then came the creators. The variety impressed them. 

Rubies tapped into all kinds of creators, from parents with active followings to cosplay influencers with small but dedicated fan bases.

They had room to experiment with different voices and styles, and since there wasn’t really a limit on how many people they could bring on, the possibilities kept opening up. 

Some of the biggest wins even came from places they didn’t expect. Influencers, they might never have found, brought fresh perspectives and fresh audiences. 

Those unexpected collabs turned out to be a big win for Rubies, bringing in content the team didn’t even see coming.

Internally, the payoff started to show:

As Helen put it:

“When we've worked with agencies in the past, it was usually a one-off around a key season; it felt like, for us, that our products weren't the star of the content, but they now are.”

For Rubies, influencer marketing wasn’t just easy; it was finally an effective way to boost brand awareness.

The Results

bonnie.flo_hayden.ray Rubies Masquerad

The results spoke for themselves.

Across four campaigns, Rubies partnered with 94 influencers who created 189 exceptional assets. The results?

That’s not just exposure. That’s brand visibility at scale. For a brand fighting to be seen as more than a supplier, it was proof that they were winning the recognition they deserved.

Even zooming in on the ‘Bring Your Character to Life’ campaign shows the impact:

Campaign after campaign, Rubies built momentum, and their audiences weren’t just seeing the costumes; they were taking notice of the Rubies brand.

For the team, these results meant newfound confidence to invest more in influencer marketing campaigns.

And confidence that their efforts were paying off in building brand awareness and consumer connection.

As Helen explains:

“A really lovely thing that The Influence Room does is that it's however many products we want to send and as many influencers as we want to accept. So we could really see the value where the more we accept, the more content we're getting and at a better value for money per campaign.”

Standout Creator Moments

Every campaign brings surprises, but a few creators stood out.

Take Amy Blackburn. With one post, she captured the joy that Rubies wants every fan to feel.

Her kids' excitement was infectious. Her audience loved it. And for Rubies, it was proof of the magic that happens when the right people wear the right costume, with a genuine interest.

Amy wasn’t the only winner. Rubies had a ton of families experience the adventure of dress-up, capturing real reactions and genuine delight, further pushing their brand name.

These moments all add up. Each driving reach and impressions, and helping Rubies carve out an identity as a brand people recognised and celebrated, away from just the costumes.

What's Next

Rubies doesn’t treat influencer marketing as a side hustle anymore. It’s right at the heart of how they’re growing and getting their name out there.

What creators do for them goes way beyond a regular ad; they make people notice the brand, remember it, and actually have fun with it.

Looking ahead, Rubies is planning seasonal campaigns, such as Halloween. They’re using the platform to run campaigns more often, ensuring Rubies stays front of mind all year round.

The brand is shifting to a household name in the space - from background player to centre stage. With each new campaign, Rubies is cementing its identity and making sure the world knows who’s behind the costumes.

The importance of influencers? They gave Rubies their visibility...And they’re only just getting started.

Helen went on to say how important this avenue has been for them:

“It provides us with content that we can utilise across different areas of marketing, not only on our social media but for other advertising platforms, such as online, trade shows, etc.”

Now, are you looking to elevate your brand and boost awareness and recognition?

Connect with a ready-made list of perfect influencers for your next campaign and book a demo with us at The Influence Room today!

HFSS & Influencer Marketing: What Brands Need to Know from Jan 2026

You'll know the acronym HFSS if you're working in food and beverage by now. It stands for High Fat, Salt and Sugar foods - think chocolate, crisps, sugary cereals, fizzy drinks, and most ready meals.

From January 2026, the government is introducing some of the strictest advertising rules in years. The goal is simple: limit exposure to HFSS products, particularly for the under-16s. And yes, influencer marketing is in scope.

But here's the good news: that does not spell the end of influencer marketing. It is just evolving, and there are plenty of ways in which brands can still collaborate with creators to drive awareness, trust, and engagement.

1. Who is it impacting?

The restrictions impact:

If your product is HFSS, the opportunities for online advertising are shrinking, but there is still plenty you can do.

2. What are the January 2026 regulations?

The main points:

So from January:

❌ No paid influencer ads promoting HFSS products directly.

✅ You can still work with influencers - just not on direct product promotion.

✅ Campaigns must be focused on brand, values, and experience rather than the product itself.

3. What does that mean for influencer marketing?

Influencer marketing isn't dead, it just needs a smarter, more creative approach.

Rather than "here's me eating this chocolate bar," campaigns will be about what the brand believes in: lifestyle, occasions, cultural relevance, or values. 

Creators who have a youth audience are off-limits, but influencers who are adult-focused can still share engaging stories about your brand.

4. Practical workarounds for influencer marketing

Below are some of the ways that brands can still partner with creators while being compliant:

The common thread? The focus is on purpose, experience, and brand values, not explicitly promoting HFSS products.

6. How do brands prepare for this shift?

To be ready for January 2026:

  1. Audit current activity – identify product-led influencer campaigns.
  2. Rethink strategy – invest budget in brand-led content.
  3. Spotlight non-HFSS ranges – use these for active influencer campaigns.
  4. Stay on top of compliance – know ASA and CAP rules inside out.
  5. Work with the right creators – those who can tell your brand story credibly and creatively.

7. How can The Influence Room help?

The Influence Room is helping brands navigate the HFSS changes by:

Influencer marketing isn't dead; it's evolving. With the right strategy, it can remain one of your most powerful ways of reaching adult audiences.

In conclusion

As of January 2026, paid HFSS advertising via influencer partnerships will be off-limits.

But here is an opportunity: campaigns can now focus on brand-led storytelling, experience, moments, and purpose. With the correct approach, influencer marketing can be more innovative, more authentic, and more strategic than ever.

At The Influence Room, we navigate brands through these changes and create campaigns that are compliant, compelling, and future-proof, showing influencer marketing still has a huge role to play in the HFSS industry.

Want help navigating HFSS restrictions? Get in touch. 

UGC Creators: The Secret to Seeing Your Brand Grow

Here’s the thing, brand marketing isn’t exactly a walk in the park right now.

Algorithms are changing faster than the British weather, attention spans are shorter than a TikTok video, and consumers can spot a generic ad from a mile away.

So, how do you actually connect with your audience? That’s where UGC comes in.

This piece dives into what user-generated content is all about, who’s behind it, and why your brand might just want to get on board.

 

What Is a UGC Creator?

Alright, let’s start with the basics:

UGC stands for User-Generated Content, which, in a brand context, means content that looks and feels like it came from a real customer.

The key difference? UGC creators aren’t necessarily promoting your product on their social profiles. Instead, they’re creating branded content for you to use across your marketing channels.

Think of them as the love child of a talented videographer and a trusted customer.

They produce raw-but-relatable videos, aesthetic product shots, testimonials that don’t sound scripted, and day-in-the-life clips that feel way more “mate recommending something in the group chat” than “corporate campaign.”

 

Wait,  So They’re Not Influencers?

Nope. And that’s what sets them apart.

Influencers are hired to speak to their audience. UGC content creators are hired to create content that you can use to speak to yours.

They don’t rely on follower counts or engagement rates. They rely on storytelling skills, creative chops, and a knack for making things feel natural.

They’re not the stars. Your brand is.

 

Why Should Brands Care About UGC Creators?

You’ve got your internal team, some slick campaigns brewing, and maybe even a few influencer partnerships in the pipeline, so why not throw UGC creators into the mix?
“UGC creators give brands a reusable bank of content for their socials and marketing. They’re easier to brief, since they don’t need to post on their channels,” says Immy Conoley, Senior Customer Success Executive at The Influence Room.

Here’s the scoop:

1. Authenticity Wins (Every. Single. Time.)

The truth is that we all crave authenticity.

Your audience is more likely to trust a relatable person sharing a genuine opinion than a polished ad with fancy lighting and a massive production budget.

UGC creators bring that raw, unfiltered vibe. It feels human. It feels trustworthy. And most importantly, it feels believable.


2. It Performs

This isn’t just a passing trend.

UGC consistently outshines traditional branded content when it comes to engagement, click-through rates, and conversions.

Why? It doesn’t come off as an ad. That scroll-stopping authenticity drives real results. That’s the magic.

As Immy mentioned, “UGC creators that have clear backgrounds, have nailed the product focus with nice lighting, and provide different shots with different angles. Content is more about the product than it is the influencer.”


3. Budget-Friendly, Big Impact

Influencer campaigns and studio shoots can quickly eat up your marketing budget.

But what about UGC creators? They deliver high-impact content at a fraction of the cost. Typically, UGC is associated with micro-influencers.

Many even work on a per-deliverable or package basis, making it easier for brands (especially startups or challengers) to scale without breaking the bank.

 

How Brands Can Leverage UGC Creators

Here’s how brands can make the most of UGC creators. UGC content creators aren’t just for TikTok. They’re a whole goldmine of assets for your entire marketing ecosystem.

Types of Content They Can Create:

Where You Can Use It:


Where to Find UGC Creators (Without Overcomplicating It)

Finding creators doesn’t have to be a grind. Here’s where to look, and how to know who’s worth your time.

  1. Creator Platforms (like The Influence Room)
    Want creators that understand your niche and brand vibe? These platforms are built to connect you with the right fit for any campaign.
  2. Freelancer Marketplaces
    Sites like Fiverr and Upwork are full of UGC creators ready to go. Browse their work, test a few out, and see who clicks.
  3. Creator Communities
    TikTok comments, X threads, and Facebook groups are full of creators showing off their stuff. It’s a great way to spot up-and-comers.
  4. Agencies That Do It All
    If you’d rather hand it over, UGC-focused agencies take care of the whole thing — from finding talent to final edits.
  5. Start Small, Then Scale
    Kick off with a short brief. Give creators room to be creative. If it lands, great — now you know who to invest in.


UGC in Action: Real Brand Wins

Let’s bring it to life with some homegrown heroes who nailed UGC with The Influence Room.

Barry M: Show Us Your Party Look!

_caitlingibbons_ ugc creator
Barry M turned up the volume on their seasonal glam with a UGC campaign that practically screamed sparkle.

Teaming up with just eleven UGC creators, they invited people to show off their boldest party looks using Barry M products.

Glitter, gloss, and glam galore.

The result? 74,000 impressions, 65,000 reach, and a wave of vibrant content that felt fun, authentic, and shareable. When your community is buzzing, your brand truly shines.


Holland & Barrett: A Cosy Autumn Night In

wrytmieslow__ ugc creato

Holland & Barrett Went Full Cosy for Autumn.

Instead of pushing products, they teamed up with UGC creators to capture that warm, wind-down feeling — think herbal teas, candles, and all things self-care.

The content beautifully captured those snug moments we all long for. The results were impressive: 1.7 million impressions, 895,000 views, and a reach of 1.4 million.

This demonstrates that authentic, lifestyle-driven content resonates much more than a polished product shot ever could.

 

La Redoute: Valentine’s Day Ready

our_journey_at_81_ ugc creator

Let’s dive into what La Redoute has to say about Valentine’s Day. Instead of the usual staged bouquets and tired clichés, they’ve opted for a refreshingly authentic approach that really stands out.

By teaming up with UGC content creators, they provided outfit inspiration, dreamy home decor ideas, and relaxed gift suggestions.

The campaign was effortlessly chic and relatable. The results? 1.1 million impressions, 928,000 reach, and 684,000 views.

It seems audiences are drawn to content that feels both aspirational and attainable.

The UGC market is constantly evolving, with the roles of its creators expanding. Immy noted:

“In my current experience, brands are becoming less focused on reach and more focused on user-generated assets, as they come at a much lower cost than hiring a photographer.

There’s a growing need for brands to secure rights across content posted with campaigns, as they want to reuse everything as much as possible.”


Getting Started With UGC Creators

Ready to start working with UGC Creators? Here are the steps to get started:

Step 1: Set Goals

Decide if you are looking for engagement in a community, conversions, or increasing brand awareness. Have an idea of what success looks like through the eyes of your brand and what you want to achieve.

Step 2: Write a Comprehensive Brief

It is important to keep things simple but be specific enough. Include a clear tone of voice to communicate how the brand talks, their key message, and what to or not to include, as well as usage rights.

Step 3: Get the Usage Rights

Make sure you talk to the UGC creator about where their content is being used and how you intend to use it.

Step 4: Get a Roster of Creators

If the UGC creators delivered content you liked, keep them in rotation. Creating a long-term bond will help create content that is much more aligned to your brands and their goals.

Step 5: Measure Performance

Stop guessing!! Test, track the ad metrics, and your engagement data. And then see if those are working and producing the best results.

 

FAQs

What does the UGC stand for?
UGC stands for user-generated content. This is any kind of content - like text, images, videos, or reviews - that’s created and shared by regular users, not the brand itself.

What is a UGC creator?
A UGC creator is someone who makes content like videos, pictures, or social posts that look and feel like real, everyday content. It’s made to feel authentic and relatable, and brands usually use it in their own marketing.

What is an example of UGC content?
User-generated content can take many forms, including:

These types of content are created by real users and help build trust and authenticity for brands.

How do I get UGC content?
To get UGC, you can:

Just make it easy and fun for people to share their own content about your brand!

What is UGC for TikTok?
On TikTok, UGC (user-generated content) is content like videos, pics, reviews, or testimonials made by everyday people, not brands, sharing their real experiences with a product or brand.


Final Thoughts

User-generated content creators aren’t just a flickering trend; they represent the future of authentic, engaging brand storytelling.

They enable your brand to stand out amidst the chaos, forge genuine connections with audiences, and appear in feeds in a way that doesn’t come off as just another advertisement. And in today’s content-heavy world, that’s priceless.

So, if you’re ready to create content that people actually want to watch, it might just be time to give UGC creators a seat at the table.

Ready to tap into UGC?

Elevate your brand and book a demo with The Influence Room today and discover how real creators can transform your content strategy.

The Ultimate Guide to Building a Brand Ambassador Program

Marketing in today’s world isn’t just about reach. It’s about connection and trust, real people talking to real audiences in authentic ways.

That’s where a brand ambassador program comes in.

This guide is for you if you’ve ever asked yourself, “How can we get our audience talking about us for the right reasons?”.

We’ll walk you through exactly what a brand ambassador program is, why it matters, and how to build one that truly drives awareness, engagement, and results.

Because at The Influence Room, we’ve seen it firsthand: when brands work with the right influencers, that’s where the magic happens.

 

What Is a Brand Ambassador?

A brand ambassador is someone who genuinely loves your brand and wants to share it with others.

They’re the kind of people who post about your product without being asked and would jump at the chance to collaborate with your brand.

Brand ambassadors act as your brand’s voice in the real world (and online). They might:

It’s not a one-size-fits-all role. It’s about authentic advocacy, not just influence.


The Types of Brand Ambassadors

There are a few types you might invite to your brand ambassador program:

Each type brings something different to the table. The best brand ambassador programs incorporate a lot of mixing and matching.

Caoimhe Reddy, Customer Success Manager at The Influence Room, stated that:
“Ambassadors should genuinely love the product, and brands need to treat them like partners. Give them creative freedom, make them feel part of the brand, and the content will hit.”


What is a Brand Ambassador Program?

Let’s break it down. A brand ambassador program is all about building long-term relationships with people who genuinely love your brand.

We’re not just talking about a few sponsored posts here and there.
Imagine forming ongoing partnerships with creators who genuinely embody your values and share them with their audience in a way that feels effortless, not forced.

Instead of always hunting for new influencers, a brand ambassador program gives you a reliable team of trusted voices.

These ambassadors promote your brand over time, generating consistent content that boosts engagement, fosters trust, and keeps your message fresh in people’s minds.

And the best part? It feels authentic. Audiences can sense when something is real, and when they see someone they admire repeatedly choosing your brand, that connection becomes much stronger.

Why Your Brand Needs a Brand Ambassador Program

You might be wondering why build a whole program around this?
Can’t we just run a few influencer campaigns and call it a day?

Sure. But if you want to build something lasting, consistent, and scalable, a brand ambassador program should be your secret weapon.

Here’s why:

  1. Increased Brand Awareness

Ambassadors extend your reach organically. When they share your brand with their networks, you tap into audiences who trust their recommendations.

  1. Authentic Promotion

Unlike transactional influencer posts, ambassador content feels real because it is. It’s powered by people who love what you offer and want to talk about it.

  1. Cost-Effective Marketing

Working with micro-influencers and niche ambassadors can deliver serious ROI, with more impact and less spend​.

  1. Strengthened Brand Community

The best ambassador programs don’t just promote your brand, they help build it. Ambassadors become insiders, collaborators, and long-term partners.

Caoimhe said: “With the rise of creator communities, it’s more about storytelling, trust, and community-building than just selling. Ambassadors are the most authentic advocates now, not celebs.”

 

How to Build Your Brand Ambassador Program

Here’s where things get practical. Building a brand ambassador program doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
We’ve broken it down into six key steps for you:

Define Your Goals

Start by getting clear on why you’re building a program. Your goals could include:

Your goals will shape everything from whom you recruit to how you measure success.

Identify Your Ideal Ambassadors

Who do you want representing your brand?

Look for people who:

TIR Tip: Use The Influence Room to find perfect creators who tick all these boxes.

Create Clear Program Guidelines

This part is crucial. Set expectations upfront:

Keep things flexible, but don’t skip structure.

Choose the Right Tools & Platforms

Ambassador management is easier when you have the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

The Influence Room Community feature offers brands a more personalised way to build lasting relationships with creators they’ve already worked with.

Instead of starting from scratch each time, brands can re-engage influencers who’ve already proven to be a great fit, this time as proven brand ambassadors.

With the Community, brands can:

For ambassador programs, the Community is especially useful. It lets you segment top-performing creators into an exclusive group, offer targeted opportunities, early campaign access, exclusive perks, and run ambassador-only events.

As Caominhe put it, “Through the community, brands can connect directly with proven brand ambassadors by reaching out to them with targeted, exclusive opportunities.”

Launch & Promote Your Program

Once you’ve got the framework, it’s go time. Start by:

Make the launch feel special, as it should be.

Maintain Engagement & Support

This is where good programs become great.

Keep your ambassadors engaged by:

When people feel seen, they stick around - and they give more.

 

Real-world Examples

Let’s talk about O2, a brand that knows a thing or two about building a loyal community.

Rather than dipping in and out of influencer partnerships, O2 has taken a different route: a long-term brand ambassador program powered by The Influence Room’s community feature.

O2 invites creators into a members-only space where they get exclusive access to perks; think VIP tickets, first-look invites, and cultural drops that money can’t buy.

But the magic is in the way they give creators the freedom to show up authentically.

No rigid scripts. No forced messaging. Just creators doing what they do best: creating content their communities love.

And it’s working.

brand ambassador program - o2

Take Emily in Paris Pt. 2 Live Screening. O2 gave ambassadors an early look at the next chapter of the global hit, and the content? Pure Parisian magic.

From fashion inspiration to croissant-fuelled watch parties, the campaign felt fun, fresh, and totally on-brand.

The campaign generated 1.4M views, 2M reach, and 2.4M impressions across only nine influencers.

brand ambassador program - o2
Next up: Sabrina Carpenter. O2 gave selected ambassadors VIP access to her live show, and the content delivered didn’t just scream fan-girl. It celebrated the artist, the experience, and the thrill of being part of something special.

That campaign alone has seen 1.4M views, 688K reach and 786K impressions generated so far.

brand ambassador program - o2

Then there was Noah Kahan, with a campaign that struck a softer, more intimate note.

Ambassadors were invited to experience his performance up close, capturing heartfelt, behind-the-scenes moments that fans genuinely connected with.

The results? 329K views, 953K reach and 1.1M impressions.

This isn’t just influencer marketing, it’s community building. And when your ambassadors feel like they’re part of something bigger, the content hits differently.

So, while the stats are impressive, what sets O2 apart is how it makes every campaign feel like a moment that creators want to be part of and one that audiences want to engage with.

 

Measuring the Success of Your Program

You’ve built the program, but how do you know it’s working?

Track Key Metrics

Some useful KPIs to measure include:

Make Sure You Use the Right Tools

Using tools like The Influence Room, along with built-in analytics such as Instagram Insights and Google Analytics, can really help you keep an eye on how your campaigns are performing.

Optimise Based on Insights

Don’t set things in motion and walk away. Pay attention to the trends:

Make the necessary tweaks and keep refining your approach.

They’re still a valuable part of many campaigns, but it’s worth going in with your eyes open and a clear strategy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even great brands can stumble when it comes to ambassador programs. Here are some common traps to avoid:

Choosing the Wrong Ambassadors

Just because someone has a following doesn’t mean they’re the right fit for your brand. Prioritise shared values, tone, and relevance over numbers.

Neglecting Communication

Ambassadors can’t read your mind. Keep the dialogue open by checking in regularly, sharing updates, and providing support.

Overlooking Performance

If you’re not tracking your success, you won’t know what needs improvement. Use KPIs and feedback loops to stay informed and adaptable.
Caoimhe mentioned that brands should not be “overly controlling with the content. Start with clear goals, and trust people to do what they do best - be relatable, not scripted.”


FAQs

Do brand ambassadors get paid?
Brand ambassadors typically get paid, but not always in cash. Some forms of compensation include:

Who can become a brand ambassador?
Anyone passionate about the brand and with a strong online presence can become a brand ambassador. They must be able to connect authentically with their audience.

What is a brand ambassador UK?
In the UK, a brand ambassador promotes a brand, either online or in person. Their role focuses on:

What is an example of a brand ambassador program?
Adidas runs a multi-tiered ambassador program featuring Global Ambassadors like top athletes and celebrities, as well as Local Creators and Community Ambassadors.

These individuals promote the brand through sport, culture, and grassroots events, helping Adidas stay connected both globally and locally.

 

Final Thoughts: Start Building Your Brand Ambassador Program

A brand ambassador program is all about turning your fans into passionate supporters. 

It’s a smart, budget-friendly way to boost awareness and spark engagement. When executed well, it doesn’t just create excitement; it fosters a sense of community, loyalty and genuine affection - building authentic brand partnerships.

The world of influencer marketing is changing, and the most forward-thinking brands are focusing on building deeper, more authentic connections with both creators and consumers.

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand an existing program, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to start building your brand ambassador program? Book a demo with us at The Influence Room today to elevate your brand.

Understanding Micro-Influencers: What They Are & Why They Matter

Let’s be real. Finding the right influencers for your brand can feel overwhelming.

With countless options, follower counts, and engagement metrics to analyse, how do you cut through the noise and build real connections with your audience?

The answer: micro-influencers.

With their smaller but far more engaged followings, micro-influencers offer brands an incredible opportunity to build trust, drive real conversations, and boost conversions.

You might just want to consider working with micro-influencers when finding the perfect influencers for your campaigns.

But what exactly is a micro-influencer, and why does your brand need them? Let’s break it down.

 

Defining Micro Influencers

So, what exactly is a micro influencer? A micro influencer usually has anywhere from 1,000 to 100,000 followers on their social media accounts.

Their audience may be smaller, but their influence is anything but.

Unlike mega influencers and celebrities with massive (but often disengaged) followings, micro-influencers have cultivated strong relationships with their audience.

Their content is more niche, their interactions are more personal, and their engagement rates? Through the roof.

Such influencer relationships create greater audience engagement and genuine interactions.

From beauty and fitness to sustainable living and gaming, micro-influencers own their space.

They create meaningful conversations and inspire action, which is something larger influencers often struggle to do.

Micro Influencers vs Larger Influencers

Let’s put things into perspective for you:

When it comes to building trust and sparking genuine conversations, micro influencers take the lead. And in a world where consumers crave authenticity, that’s a big deal.

Dan, Customer Success Manager from The Influence Room, gave his take on this topic:

"Micro-influencers offer a more personal connection with their followers, which often leads to higher engagement rates and trust. Their niche focus allows brands to reach a highly targeted audience more authentically."


The Importance of Micro Influencers in Marketing

If you’re looking for real, impactful influencer marketing, here’s why micro influencers should be the go-to option for brands that want to forge genuine connections with consumers: 

High Engagement Rates

The key reasons that micro influencers are so effective are that they don’t just have followers - they have an engaged community.

Their content sparks conversations, builds relationships, and drives action.

Studies show micro influencers achieve significantly higher engagement rates compared to bigger influencers. That means when they talk about your brand, their audience listens and acts.

Authentic, Niche-Focused Content

Micro influencers are experts (or passionate advocates) in their niche, whether it’s fitness, beauty, parenting, or tech. They create user-generated content that resonates with their audience.

Unlike some macro-influencers who promote anything for a paycheck, micro-influencers carefully select partnerships that align with their values.

This makes their recommendations feel genuine, which is something your consumers appreciate and trust.

Cost-Effectiveness

Think influencer marketing is too expensive? Think again.

Micro influencers provide cost-effective campaigns that deliver strong ROI.

Instead of spending your budget on one mega influencer with a low engagement rate, you can collaborate with multiple micro-influencers for more targeted reach and better engagement.

More impact, less spend - it’s a win-win.

When a micro-influencer genuinely loves your brand, gifting becomes a powerful tool. Rather than a transactional post, their content feels organic, authentic, and enthusiastic because it is.

A thoughtfully gifted product can spark genuine excitement and lead to multiple shares, stories, or even long-term loyalty.

It’s not just about exposure; it’s an emotional connection that resonates with their tight-knit community.

How to Identify the Right Micro Influencer for Your Brand

Choosing the right micro influencer can make or break your campaign. Here are a few tips on finding the perfect fit:

Dan at The Influence Room described how the platform finds the perfect influencers for them, stating:

"We focus on finding micro-influencers who align with the brand’s values and target audience. Their engagement rate, authenticity, and niche content are key indicators of their effectiveness in driving real results."

Potential Challenges with Micro Influencers

While teaming up with micro-influencers comes with a lot of perks, there are a few hurdles to consider as well:

Limited Reach
One of the most apparent drawbacks is their smaller audience size.

Sure, micro-influencers often boast higher engagement rates, but they just can’t match the sheer numbers that mega influencers bring to the table.

However, if you aim to engage with a specific niche audience, this might not be a deal-breaker for your brand.

Managing Multiple Influencers
Collaborating with several micro-influencers means you'll need to put in more effort and coordination.

Brands might find themselves dedicating extra time to nurture these relationships, craft campaign briefs, and keep an eye on the results.

However, influencer marketing platforms like The Influence Room can help streamline this process and ensure everything runs smoothly.

 

Micro Influencer Campaign Examples

Seeing micro-influencers in action is the best way to understand their impact. Here are some standout campaigns that showcase their effectiveness through their content:

Holland & Barrett: A Cosy Autumn Night in

Holland & Barrett - micro influencer

As the nights got longer and the air a little chillier, Holland & Barrett teamed up with micro-influencers to set the perfect cosy vibe.

Think herbal teas, scented candles, and wellness must-haves - everything you need to wind down properly.

The result? A campaign that really hit home, racking up 895K views, reaching 1.4M people, and delivering 1.7M impressions.

When it comes to self-care, people love a little inspiration.

La Redoute: Valentine’s Day Ready

La Redoute - micro influencer

Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance, it’s about looking and feeling your best.

La Redoute got together with micro-influencers to serve up outfit inspo, dreamy home decor, and thoughtful gift ideas.

With content that felt both stylish and totally doable, the campaign struck a chord, pulling in 684K views, a 928K reach, and 1.1M impressions.

Turns out, people love a little help in making the day extra special.


Barry M: Show Us Your Party Look!

Barry M - micro influencer

Glitter, glam, and bold colour! Barry M brought the party this season.

Teaming up with micro-influencers, they launched a vibrant campaign encouraging creators to share their ultimate party looks using Barry M’s boldest products.

Think shimmering eyes, glossy lips, and all the sparkle.

The campaign generated 49K views, a 65K reach, and 74k impressions from only eleven microinfluencers, which acts as proof that when your community’s having fun, your brand shines.

 

FAQs

What is a micro-influencer?
A micro-influencer is someone with 1,000–100,000 followers who focuses on a specific niche. They're often seen as trusted voices within their community.

How much do micro influencers get paid?
Rates vary, but in the UK, micro-influencers typically earn £100–£1,000 per sponsored post. This depends on their niche, engagement, and the brand’s budget.

What is the average reach of a micro influencer?
With strong engagement (often around 38%), their posts can reach 3,800 to 19,000 people, depending on follower count.

What are the disadvantages of micro influencers?
Micro-influencers can be brilliant for engagement and niche targeting. However, they’re not without challenges. Some of the main drawbacks include:

They’re still a valuable part of many campaigns, but it’s worth going in with your eyes open and a clear strategy.

Are micro influencers more trustworthy?
Yes. Their smaller, more engaged audiences see them as authentic and relatable, often building trust through personal, niche content and selective brand partnerships.

Do micro influencers get more engagement?
Typically, yes. Their loyal, niche audiences are more likely to interact with posts and trust recommendations, leading to higher engagement rates than larger influencers.

 

Final Thoughts

The influencer marketing landscape is shifting, and micro-influencers are at the forefront.

They offer brands a unique opportunity to build authentic relationships, create meaningful content, and drive real results.

If you’re ready to cut through the noise, connect with your audience, and make an impact, micro-influencers are the way forward.

So, if you’re a brand looking to elevate your brand and marketing efforts and drive genuine conversations, consider incorporating micro influencers into your strategy. Book a demo with us today!

Game-Changing Updates: Supercharge Your Brand & Influencer Strategy

Why Influencer Marketing Should Be Effortless: How We’re Making it Happen

Let’s be real - collaborating with influencers should be effortless for brands. But between endless outreach, slow replies, and missed opportunities, the process can feel more frustrating than fruitful.

It can feel like you’re spinning your wheels. You try to get things moving, but it just doesn’t come together quickly enough.

That’s why we’re rolling out three game-changing new features, each designed to take the hassle out of influencer marketing and put the power back in your hands.

These features were created with YOU in mind to help save time, create strong partnerships and get results that matter for your brand's campaigns.

Get ready to change the way you discover, connect, and collaborate on The Influence Room. Here’s what’s new and why it matters.

 

Unlock Influencer-Led Campaigns Before Your Competitors Even Know They Exist

Influencer to Brand

The Problem: You're Losing Out on the Best Creators

By the time you’ve found the right influencers, your competitors have already locked them in.

The best creators move fast, and if you’re relying on slow, manual outreach, you’re missing out on high-impact partnerships.

You’re not just missing opportunities; you’re losing the chance to work with influencers who are the perfect fit for your brand.

That’s why we built Influencer to Brand. Now, influencers pitch you tailor-made campaign ideas developed for their audience.

The Solution: Influencers Pitch to You

With Influencer to Brand, the roles are reversed. Instead of chasing influencers, they approach you, pitching campaign ideas based on personal milestones like getting married, having a baby, moving house or training for a marathon.

By launching campaigns around these moments, influencers connect with their audience on a deeper level, sharing real experiences.

Brands can step in at the right time, partnering on content that feels genuine and meaningful and creating more impactful connections than traditional campaigns ever could.

No more waiting, no more guesswork, and no additional cold outreach. Just ready-to-go collaborations you can bid on before the competition even gets to see them.

Why It Works for You:

Instead of battling in an oversaturated market, you’ll be securing authentic, high-impact influencer partnerships when it matters most.

 

Stop Waiting: Push Campaigns Forward with WhatsApp Integration

Whatsapp Integration

The Problem: Slow Responses Are Getting You Down

You send a message, follow up, and then... crickets. The silence is deafening.

Meanwhile, deadlines slip, campaigns stall, and you’re stuck chasing responses instead of moving forward.

Email isn’t cutting it anymore, brands need a faster way to connect with influencers.

That’s why we’ve built WhatsApp Integration, a groundbreaking feature that puts instant, real-time communication at your fingertips.

The Solution: Instant, Direct Communication on WhatsApp

With WhatsApp Integration, you can now message influencers where they already are.

Everyone already uses WhatsApp to communicate. Now, you can use it to stay connected with influencers. It’s time to speed up your process and get your campaigns shipped faster.

This means no more lost emails and no more waiting days for a reply. Just real-time conversations that keep campaigns running at pace.

Why It Works:

For brands, this means quicker campaign launches, better influencer activation, and an easy way to manage collaborations.

When communication is this effortless, collaborations happen quicker, and campaigns launch without unnecessary delays.

 

Create Briefs in Seconds: Let the AI Opportunity Generator Handle the Heavy Lifting

AI Opp Gen

The Problem: Writing Campaign Briefs Still Takes Too Long and Misses the Mark

Crafting the perfect influencer brief isn’t easy.

Spend too little time, and you get the wrong influencers. Spend too much, and it’s still unclear, leading to misaligned expectations and wasted effort.

On top of that, writing a strong brief can take up to 45 minutes, time that is better spent elsewhere since you can now do it in under a minute.

The Solution: AI-Powered Briefs in Seconds

We developed the AI Opportunity Generator. Instead of spending all that time writing and refining, you can now have an AI-powered brief ready to go in seconds.

With just a few simple inputs, you’ll have a clear, well-crafted brief ready to attract the best influencers.

Give yourself the gift of time – and improve the quality of your campaigns at the same time.

Why It Works for You:

Instead of spending hours on briefs that still might not work, you’ll have consistent, high-performing opportunities at your fingertips, helping you attract better influencers faster.


Your Shortcut to Smarter, Faster and More Impactful Influencer Marketing

The Influence Room is constantly evolving to make influencer marketing more efficient and impactful for you.

We understand time is money, and we’re here to help you maximise both.

We’re streamlining campaign processes, cutting out friction, and helping you collaborate faster and more successfully.

With these powerful tools, you can build stronger partnerships and execute campaigns that deliver real results - all while saving valuable time.

These tools aren’t just upgrades. They’re your shortcut to the faster, smarter, and more authentic influencer.

Ready to take your marketing to the next level? Book a call today and start executing smarter, more impactful influencer marketing campaigns.