Tags: Cebu artist Cebu Blogger Cebu Content Creator Cebu Marketing and Events Company Clover Creatives PR and Events COVID 19 Illustration by Jean Yu Jean Candice Yu Jean Yu Meghann Hernandez Metro Mom Web Developer
Cebu-based beauty, Jean Candice Yu, is an accomplished digital creative who has transitioned from blogger and content creator to marketer-cum-business manager.
This social media savvy lady, with a penchant for art and aesthetics, is known for a broad spectrum of talents that make her a standout. Say, if you’re itching to get that dream website happen and don’t know where and how to start, Jean is a full-fledged web developer who can set up your online hub or e-commerce page and help you navigate through the content management system. Need to boost your brand influence on social media? She can bring your brand story to life with engaging multimedia assets—produced either on her own or in collaboration with her business partners at Clover Creatives marketing and events agency. On the lookout for cool character prints or eye-catching illustrations? You can create lasting impressions by commissioning an artwork by Jean, either for display or business purposes.
It is no surprise why many draw inspiration from her. Her career progression is proof that talent knows no limits. She continues to thrive amidst the global crisis, while using her technical know-how to help companies fast-track their digital transformation to stay relevant and competitive in the marketplace.
Fashion Influence
Long before netizens knew of Jean Yu the blogger, she was already working full-time as a web developer. “Blogging became my creative outlet,” shares the young fashionista.
“I started my fashion blog, www.byjeanyu.com, in 2013 because I wanted to inspire people. In the beginning, I treated it as my online diary to document my OOTDs (outfits of the day). I used to come up with a lengthy blog post featuring just one outfit. I would even write in detail about every blogger event I attended.”
Jean eventually learned to diversify her content strategy. She saw the value of posting updates, teasers and OOTDs on social media, instead of sharing the whole nine yards solely on her blog.
“I still read through my old posts. I’ve come to appreciate hard work and diligence in producing content, especially in styling and scheduling OOTD shoots for weekly articles.”
Soon, her blog and social media channels gained traction and following, and brands began to take notice.
“Blogging taught me a lot about dedication, discipline, and patience in building an organic following. It also paved the way for me to work with different brands and agencies, as well as expand my professional network.”
Jean’s experience in brand collaborations and content creation gave her a better understanding of social media’s role in building brand awareness and influence. This led her to tap into her skills and join forces with other bloggers to form a full-service creative firm.
Business and artistic endeavors
“Now, my focus is on Clover Creatives, the events and marketing agency my friends and I established in 2018,” she explains. Her business partners, Marco Paulo Diala and Doyzkie Buenaviaje, are also respected bloggers in Cebu. “Aside from brand activation and organizing events, we also offer social media services and content management. I oversee our business operations. At the same time, I help out with graphic design and content creation.”
On the side, Jean has a hobby-turned-business which allows her to channel her inner creativity. She is making waves as an illustrator and has created custom pieces for notable brands and art enthusiasts. Her other works are made into stationery products, decorative pieces, and novelty items—all sold online.
“I currently enjoy character designs. You can find my artworks on Facebook and Instagram (@illustrationbyjeanyu), as well as on YouTube (@jeanyu). I love digital illustration. It’s so flexible and convenient for me to explore different styles and effects. It’s easier for me to handle revisions too, especially when working for a client. I use the Procreate app on iPad Pro because it has a lot of brushes that help me achieve the effects that I want for my illustrations, without having to buy every single brush, ink, paint or marker. I still enjoy working with markers and watercolor, particularly on days my eyes need a rest from gadgets.”
Beginner’s guide
With community quarantine in effect, some have turned to blogging either as coping mechanism, creative outlet, or a way to fill up idle time. Jean is thrilled to see the community spirit alive among new bloggers and content creators, and happily shares little nuggets of wisdom.
“To anyone planning to create a blog or website, I recommend you use a free and open-source content management system, like WordPress, instead of making one from scratch. They’re already established—they have a huge community and there are a number of themes and plugins readily available to help you achieve what you need. Before starting a blog, it’s best to list down what you intend to write about and set the dates when you want these stories published.”
Touching on authenticity, credibility, and quality content, Jean says, “There is no shortcut to building credibility and following online. Nothing happens overnight. You have to be ready to do the work. It’s important to post regularly, as often and consistent as possible, especially if you’re new to this platform. Feature topics you’re really passionate about, so you won’t run out of ideas or content. When it comes to your building your social media profile, it’s pretty much similar to managing your blog. Post on a regular basis and interact with your audience and other content creators. Most important of all, enjoy and love what you do, be patient and grow an organic following.”
Visit www.byjeanyu.com and follow @jeancyu and @illustrationbyjeanyu on Facebook and Instagram to view fashion and lifestyle updates, brand collabs, and commissioned artworks. You may also email byjeanyu@gmail.com.
For information and inquiries about Clover Creatives events and marketing services, send a message to jean@clovercreativesph.com.
