Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberlynn Baggs.
Hi Kimberlynn, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m a Portland-based creator, and I’ve been making content for four years. It started when I moved to Portland and fell in love with this city and everything it has to offer. There are so many amazing local businesses that deserve a spotlight and need help getting visibility, and I wanted to be part of that.
I’ve always had a background in photography and the arts, so creating content became a fun way to be creative, connect with others in this beautiful city, and lift up local businesses at the same time. Over time, I realized I was spending most of my time creating, so in 2024 I took a big leap and went full time.
That decision gave me the time and freedom to focus on highlighting other businesses, and it’s one of the most fulfilling things I get to do. Today, I share the Pacific Northwest through food, travel, outdoor adventure and local culture on Instagram and TikTok at @kimberlynn.pdx, and I run Social Seed, where I create content and manage social media for local brands.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Honestly, no, it hasn’t always been a smooth road, but I’ve learned a lot along the way.
The biggest thing is that creating content is also running a business, and that part isn’t as visible. When I started, I was focused on the creative side. As things grew, I had to learn how to value my work, negotiate partnerships, read contracts and keep up with invoicing, all while still making content I’m proud of.
Going full time in 2024 added another layer. I became the creator, the editor, the accountant and the manager all at once, with the uncertainty that comes with being self-employed.
The other challenge is balancing burnout and creative ruts. When your passion is also your job, it can be hard to switch off, and there are weeks when the ideas just don’t come. I’ve learned to give myself room to rest, step away from my phone, and get inspired by exploring Portland the way I did when I first moved here.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a content creator based in Portland. I share the Pacific Northwest through food, travel, outdoor adventure and local culture on Instagram and TikTok, and I also run Social Seed, where I create content and manage social media for local businesses.
It all started when I moved to Portland and began documenting the places I was discovering. Four years later, I’m still doing it. My background is in photography and the arts, so I think a lot about how a place looks and feels on camera. People tend to know me for honest, local recommendations, the kind you’d get from a friend who just happens to have tried everything.
What I’m most proud of is hearing from local business owners who’ve told me they saw a real increase in revenue after a video went live on my page. For a small business, that can mean a lot, and it’s the reason I love doing this work.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that trust is everything. My audience follows me because they know my recommendations are real, so I’ve learned to say no to opportunities that don’t feel right, even when it would be easier to say yes. If I wouldn’t go there on my own, I’m not going to tell people they should.
It took me a while to get comfortable with that. When you’re newer, it can feel like you have to take everything that comes your way. But the work I’m proudest of comes from places I actually love, and I can tell people feel the difference. They show up, they try the restaurant, they book the class, and they tell me about it afterward.
I’ve also learned that you don’t have to be everywhere or do everything to build something lasting. Staying true to what I genuinely enjoy sharing has gotten me further than chasing trends ever did.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kimberlynnpdx.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimberlynn.pdx/?hl=en
