When it comes to craft breweries, arguably no place is better for brand promotion than social media. Which is why companies are now looking for micro influencers to help grow their brand. On the Internet’s various platforms lives a legion of beer nerds holding down the many corners of the sprawling tapestry that is the craft beer scene. Get to know Sarah aka the Superhero of Beer @HoppyWonderwoman.
Sarah, we like to kick things off with you telling us a little about yourself. Give us a little background on how “Hoppy Wonderwoman” came about.
SN: Hoppy Wonder Woman is simply a superhero who enjoys her hoppy beers. Haha! Growing up, I always looked up to Wonder Woman and wanted to be just like her. I have spent many years cosplaying and enjoying great IPAs. I thought why not combine the two things that I love the most.
Why did you start HoppyWonderwoman on Instagram? Is it a full-time gig or on the side project? Also tell us about your blog the hoppywonderwoman.com.
SN: “HoppyWonderwoman” started off as a little fun hobby. I wanted to share my love of beer and Wonder Woman. Next thing I know I have over 2k followers and messages from strangers from all over the world asking for my local recommendations for when they come and visit Houston. That’s when I created Hoppywonderwoman.com, a blog that talks about Houston beer and food pairings. It has been a while since I have posted on there. The craft beer scene in Houston is so big right now, it’s a bit difficult to keep up. That’s why I’m thinking it’s about time I turned this into something more than just an on the side project. I believe my site needs my full attention now more than ever since my followers have increased.
We’d love to hear about how your passion for beer came about. Everyone has a different story, what’s yours?
SN: I got into Craft Beer about 8 years ago. I’ve always been into beer but wasn’t very impressed by what I was drinking at the moment. I became curious for other styles of beers and immediately fell in love. I’ve tried thousands of different beers rather than sticking to the same old brew every day. This has made my life more exciting and has made me so much more knowledgeable when it comes to “good beer” and recommendations.
What advice would you give craft beer breweries or beer companies looking to use the Instagram social media platform to grow their brand’s image? Would you give the same advice to craft brewers as you would to the established players in this market?
SN: I would tell these Craft Breweries that Instagram is the spot right now to get their name out there. They need to post consistently and engage with their followers by frequently updating them on releases and events taking place at their brewery. I feel like the established players in the market already have a certain marketing strategy that has gotten them to where they’re at. I would tell the Craft Brewers to take notes from them, but to be more genuine so that their followers can relate to them, their business, and their product. I always like going to breweries where I feel like I’m at home and welcomed and greeted with kindness. I think that’s important for any business!
What is your stance on influencers being paid to post about brands? Should influencers be transparent regarding payment for posts?
SN: I’m all for paid posts if the posts/reviews are real and don’t sound scripted. I do believe that Influencers should be open about sponsored posts. It’s important to build trust with your followers.
How do you think the rise of influencer accounts on Instagram has impacted on the way that people discover restaurants/beers/bars/food?
SN: I think a lot of businesses are making good money off people’s posts on Instagram lately. People love visuals and genuine reviews. It’s so easy to type in a business or hashtag on IG and find out all the scoop about them within seconds. When I want to look up my favorite restaurant, I tend to open up my IG app rather than Yelp because I feel like I’m going to get a faster, recent review, with a better image.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential for success?
SN: To be brave and courageous! Fear is your worst enemy when it comes to success.
What do you wish brands knew before approaching you on Instagram?
SN: I am professional, passionate, honest, and genuine.
On a personal note, what are some of the most important things in your life?
SN: God, my loved ones, fitness, my car…. ha-ha, pretty much all of my blessings that I have been blessed with.
Anything else you want to share with our readers?
SN: The sky is the limit when it comes to success. Never let anyone stop you from reaching your goals!
