Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal C Martin-johnson
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I started creating content when I was in high school (2008) and continued while I was in college (2012). I created strictly beauty content and highlighted my transition journey from relax to natural hair. I did swap videos with other beauty creators, and makeup videos as well. I stopped creating content due to various reasons. But in 2019, I started back creating content consistently and was determined to become a success.
Today, I create authentic content surrounding all things beauty (skincare, makeup, curly hair), creativity (crafting, journaling, planning), and lifestyle (travel, coffee, marriage, life). I create on my blog and on multiple social media (Instagram, Facebook, Lemon8, TikTok, Pinterest, & YouTube) platforms. I also create content with my wife through our brand: Authentically Cris and Jazz (Instagram, TikTok and YouTube). We create dating and travel content together, and share life as a black LGBTQIA couple.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
This road has not been smooth at all! There has been obstacles and struggles but with perseverance I’ve managed to keep going. Some of the struggles I’ve faced include imposter syndrome, lack of opportunities, lack of brand awareness of me, and struggles with improving content.
I believe that we all go through imposter syndrome at some point! I’m thankful that I’ve worked through it, and I know that the content I have to offer is for a particular audience! Not everyone will like my style of creating but I’m sharing from my perspective. Unfortunately, living in the dirty South (Mississippi) poses many struggles with opportunities and brand awareness. It doesn’t mean that opportunities don’t exist, I just have to work a little harder. There are many successful Mississippi based content creators, influencers, and even celebrities so talent isn’t an issue. I just have to work harder at improving my content and readily putting myself out there to brands I resonate with. Lastly, learning skills to improve my content creation journey is essential. The obstacle and fears with editing content that comes naturally to some has been a struggle for me. But with courses and tutorials, I’ve gotten better!
Regardless of whatever struggles, I’ve faced, I always keep going! I want to be a successful content creator, and I will succeed at it!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Aside from being a content creator, I’m living my dream as a registered nurse. I work as an infection preventionist (Infection Control Nurse) full time, and as a neonatal intensive care (NICU) nurse, as needed (PRN). I’m known for my charismatic and enthusiastic personality. I’m also known for being a team player, creative, and for always being able to lighten the mood even on a tough work day. I’m most proud of seeing this dream through! I wanted to be a nurse when I was in high school, but I allowed others thoughts and opinions change that. I didn’t officially become a nurse until I was 26, and after obtaining other education! Therefore, I’m proud of myself for becoming a nurse and seeing my dream through. The thing that sets me apart from others is that despite my adversities I will not give up! It may take me years to reach a place but I’m not giving up!
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory is spending time with my grandmother. She also taught me amazing things but I loved making homemade ice cream and biscuits with her. We would sit on the porch of our home in Edwards, Mississippi, make homemade biscuits and homemade ice cream while listening to Blue’s music. During that time, life was slow, easy, and amazing! I miss her everyday, but I know she’s proud of the woman who I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thecrystallinaperspective.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecrystallinaperspective?igsh=M2FneGxjaXV3dTRs&utm_source=qr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@thecrystallinaperspective?si=So_fC4M3I1kjtxao
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@thecrystallinap?_t=8pr40zU9DSs&_r=1
