Mari Pepin and Kenny Braasch became household names after getting engaged on season 7 of “Bachelor in Paradise” and tying the knot in 2023. The couple’s love story captured the hearts of viewers, but what many may not realize is the lucrative business opportunities that came their way as a result of their reality TV appearances.
Pepin, a contestant on “The Bachelor” season 25 in 2021, returned to the small screen later that year for “Bachelor in Paradise” season 7. Winning Kenny Braasch’s final rose not only led to a happily ever after for the couple but also a significant increase in Pepin’s Instagram following. Her social media base grew from 50,000 to over 300,000 followers, opening the door to a world of influencer opportunities that would help her build a small fortune.
With her newfound social media presence, Pepin quickly found herself inundated with offers from brands eager to collaborate. “Instantly, we were getting huge deals,” she recalled. Companies began sending her products to try at her home in Chicago. If she liked a particular item, she would post about it on her Instagram, adhering to the company’s talking points, and in return, earn a fee.
Some of the brands Pepin has partnered with include Loreal, Factor meal delivery, Ruffino wine, and Mermaid hair products. In some cases, Pepin and Braasch team up for joint promotions. Braasch himself has secured partnerships with brands like Apothic wine and gambling site BetUS, which have further expanded their reach and opportunities in the influencer space.
According to a report from Influencer Marketing Hub, the practice of sending products to celebrities and influencers in exchange for social media promotions is a common marketing strategy. Alternatively, brands may opt to sign deals with influencers to promote their products for a fee or a share of affiliate revenue, similar to a commission for each sale. The impact of these influencer partnerships on brand building has been proven effective, as they help drive sales and increase brand visibility.
The rise of influencer marketing has turned into a lucrative side hustle for many reality television stars, including Pepin. A 2023 survey by NeoReach revealed that content creators can earn between $2,500 and $5,000 per month, depending on their platform, follower count, and other factors. While Pepin has earned over $50,000 from influencing in a single year and has received as much as $12,500 for a single post, the income potential can vary significantly.
Casey Lewis, a social media trend expert and founder of trend newsletter After School, emphasized that influencers with larger followings have the potential to “make bank.” However, the income generated through influencing can be inconsistent, making it a risky venture for some individuals. While some influencers can earn a substantial supplemental income, most full- and part-time creators bring in less than $15,000 annually.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties of the influencer world, a significant number of young adults aspire to become influencers. A 2023 report from Morning Consult revealed that 57% of Gen Zers expressed interest in pursuing a career as an influencer. The desire for self-employment, recognition for personal taste, and the appeal of being a public figure are driving factors behind this aspiration.
However, the reality of monetizing one’s life as an influencer is far from glamorous. Lewis acknowledged that while the allure of influencer status is strong, the process of turning one’s life into a monetized brand can be exhausting. The pressure to constantly create content, engage with followers, and secure brand partnerships can take a toll on influencers, making it a challenging career path for many.
In light of the growing popularity of influencer marketing, having a side hustle has become increasingly common among young adults. A report by Bankrate in 2024 revealed that 36% of U.S. adults have a second job, generating an average of $891 per month in additional income. Among Gen Zers and millennials, the prevalence of side gigs rises to nearly 50%, highlighting the importance of diversifying income streams in today’s economy.
For Pepin, influencing serves as a supplementary source of income alongside her full-time job as a social media marketing manager. While the influencer space may not offer the same level of stability as traditional employment, Pepin recognizes the value of capitalizing on her reality TV fame while it’s still relevant. As she aptly put it, “I think you have to strike while the iron is hot.”
In conclusion, the journey from reality TV star to influencer has been a lucrative one for Mari Pepin. Through strategic brand partnerships and engaging content creation, she has been able to leverage her social media following to build a small fortune. While the influencer industry presents its own set of challenges and uncertainties, the potential for financial success and personal fulfillment is undeniable for those willing to navigate its complexities. With the right approach and determination, influencers like Pepin can continue to thrive in a competitive digital landscape.