Interview with content creator/business owner @bookish_bryy

hi everyone!! So so so excited I had the opportunity to interview this sweet human @bookish_bryy from insta and TikTok. You’ll probably know her best for her bookish content including Bryce from Crescent City content but she’s also an entrepreneur with her own online store Bookish Babe Collective. I’m going to attach some links below so you guys can see her amazing content.

follow her on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/bookish.bryy?igsh=MWMyNnAwdnFnNHAxaQ==

follow her on TikTok

https://www.tiktok.com/@bookishbry?_t=ZP-8voC3R22ew2&_r=1

Follow her on YouTube:

https://youtube.com/@bookishbry?si=kKuKCC-kKSRtFreF

Bookish Babes Collective:

https://bookishbabescollective.com/

please check out all of her links and enjoy the interview!

❤️Carrie

What inspired you to go from not only content creating but also Bookish Babes Collective merch?

I’ve always dreamed of owning my own little boutique-style shop, and Bookish Babes Collective felt like the perfect extension of that vision. I’m constantly buying bookish merch myself, but I noticed a gap in the market—so much of it was focused on specific books or repeated the same designs. I wanted to create something fresh and bold—pieces that could be styled in everyday ways and still speak to the bookish soul. My goal was to make apparel that felt unique and elevated, and that I knew my fellow bookish besties would be just as obsessed with.

How do you balance creating authentic content while also running a business?

Having a set schedule is a lifesaver for me. I plan out my day with dedicated time blocks for content creation, business tasks, and breaks. Since I work from home, I have the flexibility to shift things when needed—whether that’s taking my laptop to the pool for a change of scenery or taking a breather when I need it. I’ve learned that structure doesn’t limit creativity—it gives it space to thrive.

What does a typical day look like for you as a content creator and entrepreneur?

I usually start my day with breakfast and a few hours of computer work—checking emails, working on orders, or planning content. Then I get ready and film for 1–2 hours. After that, I’ll hit the gym, and in the evenings I wind down with a good book, spend time with my boyfriend, or just relax and recharge. Every day is different, but I try to maintain a rhythm that balances both work and joy.

What platforms have been the most impactful for your brand growth, and why?

Instagram has been a huge game-changer for me. The ability to link directly to my products, do collab posts, and cross-promote my main page with Bookish Babes Collective makes it so much easier to drive traffic and build community. While TikTok is great for reach and discoverability, Instagram gives me more control over nurturing that connection with my audience.

Can you walk us through your process for creating engaging bookish content?

I’m constantly sending myself content ideas as they pop into my head—literally DMing myself or jotting things down in my Notes app. When it’s time to create, I scroll through those notes and go with whatever idea feels most exciting that day. I create content after I get ready—usually for 1–2 hours—and it could be anything from a voiceover skit to a book rant or a “Get Ready With Me.” I love creating content that feels like hanging out with a friend.

What challenges have you faced as both a creative and a business owner—and how have you overcome them?

The biggest challenge has been juggling everything. Between managing multiple social platforms, staying consistent with content, and running a business, it can feel like my brain is in ten places at once. I’m constantly reminding myself of things I need to do, and inspiration strikes at the most random times—showering, driving, you name it. I literally ask my boyfriend to text me ideas while I’m mid-thought so I don’t forget them. I’ve learned to embrace the chaos by keeping everything documented: texts to myself, DMs, notes—it’s all part of the creative process for me.

How do you decide which books or products to feature or promote on your page?

I keep it 100% real. I only talk about the books I’m genuinely reading and loving in the moment—I’m a mood reader, so it changes constantly. I feature my own products because I truly love and use them, but I’m also passionate about supporting other small businesses. I won’t promote a product I wouldn’t personally use, and the same goes for books. I also don’t believe in bashing a book publicly, even if it wasn’t for me. If I don’t vibe with something, I just don’t talk about it. And if I do mention a book that didn’t hit, I’ll leave the title out to keep things respectful.

Have you had any memorable collaborations or partnerships that helped shape your brand?

Not one specific partnership, but honestly, the support from my bookish community has been everything. My book besties hyping me up, tagging me, loving my style—it’s been the biggest influence in shaping my brand. That constant encouragement reminded me that there’s a space for bookish fashion that’s bold, fun, and unapologetically unique.

What advice would you give to someone looking to turn their passion into a personal brand or business?

Stay true to yourself. Don’t feel like you have to follow every trend or mold yourself into someone else’s version of success. The magic happens when you build something that feels joyful and fulfilling to you. That’s what creates longevity—and connection. People can feel when something is real.

Any exciting plans for the future you could tease us with?

Absolutely! Keep your eyes out—there are new baby tee designs coming just in time for summer. Two will be launching soon, and I have five more in the works. I’m so excited because there’s something for everyone in this drop. It’s giving major bookish energy and I cannot wait to share it with you!

Thanks for reading!!