Hey there, I’m Rachel!
I’m an entrepreneur, brand and marketing strategist, exhibited artist, and Bronx native living out my entrepreneurial dreams in Los Angeles.
I serve as the bridge between forward-thinking brands and dynamic entrepreneurs and creators of color, fully committed to promoting inclusivity. My passion for genuine collaborations helps build meaningful connections that not only drive positive change but also celebrate the diverse richness within the entrepreneurial community.
With over a decade of experience under my belt, I’ve worked on many impactful digital and experiential campaigns you’ve probably seen before for Fortune 500 brands like McDonald’s, Verizon, and Kia, to name a few. I’ve lent my expertise to major agencies, including Creative Artist Agency, empowering brands eager to forge deeper connections with the Latinx community.
Before launching my agency, I was the Director of Social Media and Influencer Relations for #WeAllGrow Latina Network. I oversaw many national campaigns and crafted digital engagement strategies that have made a lasting impact on the content creator community.
But there’s more to the story. There was a time when I didn’t have my own business or global brands as clients.
I obtained my Bachelor of Fine Arts from the School of Visual Arts. Subsequently, I assumed various positions as a museum educator, lecturer, and curator at renowned institutions including The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Guggenheim, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and several more. My academic journey continued with the study of Modern Art and Critical Studies at Columbia University.
Additionally, my work as an exhibited portrait artist has been showcased at prestigious venues such as The Society of Illustrators and Woodmere Art Museum, among others.
Little did I know that my background in the arts would become the cornerstone for launching a business. Now, I harness my creative expertise to create impactful campaigns with global brands.
Some of my art…
In 2010, I started my blog and my entire life changed.
What initially began as an experiment to discover like-minded communities evolved into a career that hadn’t quite taken shape before.
I launched a blog called theArtMuse, which started off as my little corner of the internet where I shared a mix of art and fashion. Over time, this small corner of mine turned into a path I contributed to creating, now recognized as part of the influencer marketing landscape.
In 2011, I assumed the role of leading a national blogger campaign at #WeAllGrow (formerly Latina Bloggers Connect). What started with one campaign swiftly expanded to dozens and eventually hundreds. The rest, as the saying goes, is now part of history.
IF YOU DON’T BUILD YOUR DREAMS, SOMEONE WILL HIRE YOU TO BUILD THEIRS –Tony Gaskins
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In 2017, I found myself at a crossroads, prompting a pivot. Drawing upon my resourcefulness, creativity, and my family’s entrepreneurial spirit, I crafted my own path to becoming a Founder and CEO.
In 2017, significant changes in the influencer landscape led to a shift in my workplace. It was a time of uncertainty, but I faced a choice: seek new employment or forge my own path. Opting for the latter, I leveraged the network I had cultivated over the years, delving into freelancing and consulting while establishing my own agency offering social media services.
Come 2018, I introduced Blue Lotus Collective—a name resonating with the lotus’s ability to thrive in challenging environments. Surprisingly, a few months after the launch, a former competitor approached me, extending my first campaign and eventually becoming a client. It underscores the idea that your work and graciousness, even in a competitive market, speak volumes.
Fast forward to today, we offer a range of services from media buys to experiential marketing events, all underpinned by carefully crafted creative strategies alongside my fantastic team. (Video: Kia)
Refined Media Group
Refined Media Group is a certified Minority Business, also holding certifications as a California Small Business Enterprise and a Community Business Enterprise in Los Angeles. We specialize in developing and executing comprehensive marketing and communications strategies that resonate with diverse audiences, underscoring our commitment to inclusivity. As pioneers in multicultural marketing, we have a deep understanding of the cultural nuances necessary to create meaningful impact.
Join me on the journey!
Despite the busy world of entrepreneurship, I do plan to wield my paintbrush again. Until then, join me on this unpredictable entrepreneurial journey. And if you find yourself needing assistance on your own path, stay connected!