The recent visit of reality TV star Baylen Dupree-Dooley to Ogdensburg, New York, and her subsequent shout-out to a local business on social media has sparked interest and raised questions about the impact of social media influence on small businesses. This incident highlights the power of social media in promoting local businesses and the potential for individuals to make a significant impact on their communities.
Dupree-Dooley, who stars in TLC's 'Baylen Out Loud', a show that focuses on her life with Tourette syndrome, shared a TikTok video showing her and her friends in Ogdensburg. She specifically mentioned JET Nutrition, a local business, and purchased drinks there. This simple act of patronage and recognition has had a ripple effect, drawing attention to the business and potentially increasing its visibility and sales.
The business owner's gratitude, as expressed in a Facebook post, underscores the importance of social media in fostering a sense of community and support. It also highlights the potential for individuals to become local champions, using their influence to bring attention to and support for small businesses in their area.
However, this incident also raises questions about the authenticity and sustainability of such endorsements. While the shout-out may have immediate benefits for the business, it also raises the question of whether the influence of social media personalities can be relied upon for long-term support. The business owner's lack of response to 7 News' inquiries further complicates this issue, suggesting a need for more transparent and ongoing engagement with local businesses by social media influencers.
In my opinion, this incident serves as a reminder of the dual nature of social media influence. While it can be a powerful tool for promoting local businesses and fostering community support, it also requires careful consideration and ongoing engagement to ensure that the benefits are genuine and sustainable. As social media continues to play a larger role in our lives, it is important to recognize and address these complexities to ensure that the positive impact of social media influence is maximized.
