Dear Columbia: Here are Two Must-Follow Local Instagram Accounts
- Cola Crescent
- Jun 26, 2018
- 3 min read
By Randy Wicker
In the world of social media, we have so many options on what to read, who to
follow, and whether or not their opinions actually matter. I wanted to introduce y’all to
two local bloggers that are not only changing the spirit of Instagram, but also changing
the way the young people of Columbia view themselves and their community.
He has become one of the most influential men on the fashion scene, not only
here in the South but all across the United States. Davis is changing the way we think
about body standards for men—which is something we often do not discuss.
Davis lets you know it’s okay that you’re gaining weight; he guides you through
risk-taking outfits that aren’t traditional looks for a husky guy. He’s funny, smart, and
wears a blazer like no one I’ve ever seen. Not only is Davis admired by over 71,000
Instagram followers, he’s the father of two little girls and a husband.
Oh, and did I mention he recently just quit his job as an educator, a job he’s held
for the past eight years? Born and raised right here in Columbia, Davis is a NAACP
Image Award nominee for his best-selling book, Notoriously Dapper: How to Be A
Modern Gentleman with Manners, Style and Body Confidence. Other than his famous
blog and helpful book, he’s also a dancer and activist. He’s a model for Chubbies, and
you’ve probably seen his face and body in recent Target ads.
His Instagram account is fun, positive, and very inspiring for men like myself, who
may not really care about a six pack, but are concerned about how clothes actually look
while wearing them. We all deal with failing to meet society’s body standards
sometimes, but Davis’s posts will make you feel like you’re not alone when you’re
standing in front of that mirror.
From food and cocktails to spreading positive messages about the female form,
Holly Heaton has shown us how her beautiful soul and courage can influence a
generation of young women. Born and raised in Athens, Georgia, she now calls
Columbia home—and we are all better off for it.
Heaton’s eye for a great plate has helped many local couples resolve the whole
“where should we eat” song and dance many of us have faced. Her descriptions of food
makes you feel as if you’re sitting there, breaking bread right beside her. With over
6,000 followers, Heaton’s fan base is primarily female. She uses her platform to
encourage the modern woman to eat whatever she wants and dress however she
wants. But for all of us, Heaton reminds us: it’s okay to be truthful about the way you
feel about yourself. She shares her ups and downs in life, telling you amazing stories
that some of us would never even tell our closest friends. She writes each heartfelt
caption with so much freedom, truth and most importantly love.
Heaton is not just capturing amazing photos of local food—homegirl has done
her homework! From her travels overseas, actually taking the time to talk with local
chefs, attending Farm to Table events, and local festivals, she’s proven to be the kind of
gal who rolls up her sleeves and dives right into something new. I’ve had the pleasure of
cooking with her, drinking with her, and just talking about life with her. Her spirit has
changed the way a lot of local people view themselves and others.
“MessyKitchGirl” has received a lot of positive attention, but it’s very important to
keep that train going. If her Instagram account isn’t the best source on the web about
food and dining in Columbia, it’s damn near close. But it’s not only about the food
preparation—it’s about how certain foods make you feel about yourself. Her dedication
for teaching self-love through experiencing food and culture is a moving message we
can all get behind.
Comments