Meet Aaron and Stella, the dynamic duo behind Chicago Swirl Couple, a travel blog that blends their love for adventure with insightful cultural perspectives. From their humble beginnings as a personal account to blossoming into a platform that celebrates their journey as a couple, Aaron and Stella have embraced challenges, pursued their passions as writers and entrepreneurs, and are carving a unique space in the world of travel blogging. In this interview, they share their inspiring story, lessons learned, and dreams for the future of their blog and writing careers.
Can you share with us a bit about your personal journey and how you got started with Chicago Swirl Couple?
Chicagoswirl couple started off out of the love for my husband and I love language and 3 years later we are still enjoying visiting places. Our journey began towards 2020 where we decide to close my personal account and adventure into our couple account.
What inspired you to become a published author and share your experiences through writing?
I have always loved writing since a young age. My first love was writing music; I always knew writing had a way of freeing me. As a Togolese woman, I faced issues that I didn’t have many women from my background to represent me. I have often heard the same story from friends; however, no one was starting the conversation, so I decided to do something about it. With my background in political science and a bit of acting, I wanted to humor conversation taboo in my culture. As for travel writing, I tried to shift the narrative and show that Togolese girls can also be adventurous.
As an entrepreneur and travel writer, what challenges or struggles have you faced along the way?
Being an influencer is very competitive, yet being an African influencer is also extra competitive. One of the challenges I face sometimes is having a mentor to reach out to or having to figure out the business side by myself. However, I’m always grateful for knowledge and building a strong community to rely on.
Can you tell us about a particularly difficult moment in your journey and how you overcame it?
Starting any business is difficult. We needed to learn about SEO at some point in our blogging business! We kept trying to find the right person, but it was a lot of trial and error for 2 years. Finally, towards the end of 2023, my husband and I took a 1-2 month break from social media and honed our skills. Not only were we able to meet the right person, but this SEO person has become a good expert in our business. While no day is alike, we continue to learn and grow.
What are some important lessons you’ve learned from running your business and pursuing your passion as a writer?
The internet is already filled with overdoers. But if we can just be ourselves and share honest reviews, I know it will happen. I have also learned that it is okay to invest in myself to continue improving as a writer.
How do you balance your personal life, business responsibilities, and creative projects?
To be honest, I still haven’t found the balance. My husband and I still both work our 9-5 jobs, so sometimes I can be a bit much. One thing we have done that is helping us this year is hire an assistant to help us with the admin side of the business, allowing us to focus more on creating and crafting travel guides for the blog.
What advice would you give to other aspiring entrepreneurs or writers just starting their journey?
Feel free to be curious. Ask a lot of questions and most of all don’t be afraid to fail.
Can you share a memorable success story or achievement you’re proud of?
One of our biggest highlights of 2023 was working with a tourism board outside of the Midwest. We were so happy to expand and look forward to reaching more destinations.
How has your cultural background and identity influenced your work and creative projects?
I feel my cultural background allows me to have the best of both worlds. I have been able to tell and write a story from a different angle, having grown up in both my African culture and the US.
What are your future goals and aspirations for the Chicago Swirl Couple and your writing career?
I aspire to inspire the next Togolese woman to pursue her dream of storytelling. My husband and I hope Chicagoswirlcpuple becomes a well-known blog for travel reference. My ultimate dream is to work for my country’s tourism board and promote tourism in my country.
