Chatting With

Idalia Salsamendi

Idalia Salsamendi is brilliantly disrupting the digital marketing industry to propel businesses forward, top business strategist and journalist, she has been revolutionizing social media for over a decade. With years of invaluable experience, and an understanding of social media marketing, she launched her namesake company, Idalia INC, as the premier destination for both brands and influencers alike. Idalia is also an avid journalist, with a distinct beat for fashion, social media, and travel.

Melissa: What is your particular morning routine and particular nighttime routine?

Idalia: I like to start off my day with yoga… doing it about 5x a week. This and meditation. It really puts me in a good head space to begin the day. To unwind at night, I always do some light stretches and meditation as well. Then I curl up with my favorite book and read right before dozing off. Funny thing, I can’t go to sleep unless I read something in bed. No matter how tired I am.

Melissa: What are your go to brands that are particular to you? Tell us your go-to denim, white t-shirt, bra or underwear, shoes, PJ’s or brand you splurge or invest in?

Idalia: Ooohhh this is a good one. I’ve been loving Frame Denim a lot lately. I just got these spectacular orange jeans which I know are going to be my go-to this summer. I’m on a hunt right now for the perfect white t-shirt, so if you guys have any suggestions let me know as I have yet to find it. As far as brands to invest in, I’m huge on buying pre-loved pieces that will withstand the test of time. Whether it’s a classic Chanel bag, or a Rolex or a Hermes Kelly, when I “splurge”, I look at it as an investment and not some reckless purchase. Although I do not tend to impulsively buy (I’m an extremely conscious and eco-conscious consumer), I think Bottega Veneta would be the exception.

Melissa: What is your particular vice? 
Idalia: This past week I’ve been on a frozen yogurt frenzy… eating it almost every day during my nightly walk.
Melissa: What is your particular travel destination? 
Idalia: Anywhere that can expand the soul.
Melissa: What particular item in your closet could you never part with?
Idalia: My original green Dior saddle bag from John Galliano 2003. This was my first designer purchase and I saved up so I could have it. I’ve been wearing it for the past 19 years, and will continue for as long as I’m on this planet.
Melissa: Anything you’re particularly obsessed with at the moment?
Idalia: Although I dislike the word “obsessed”, what I’m really into this moment is watching “Bridgerton” – such a guilty pleasure! Hello Lord Anthony Bridgerton!
Melissa: Particular thing you wish you made more time for or prioritize more?
Idalia: Okay so not to toot my own horn, but three years ago my resolution was to prioritize my life better and I must say that right now I think I’m doing a darn good job. Every day I make it a point to do the things that bring me joy and that bring me money (LOL!).
Melissa: What is one particular thing you wish you never said or wore or bought?

Idalia: Never regret an outfit! This is fashion rule #1! If you felt great wearing it at the moment, then you should feel great seeing a photo of it years down the line – no matter how tacky the fashion may have seemed at the time.

Melissa: What is your favorite go-to meal to cook?
Idalia: Oh, I make a bomb vegan “Arroz Con Picadillo” – a traditional Cuban dish consisting of rice and ground meat. I substitute the ground meat for Beyond Burger Vegan Patties. I chop up the patties so they resemble the ground meat, and cook it on a cast iron with some onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Mix all the ingredients together and cook on medium heat until everything has been cooked evenly. Then add a dash of tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Instead of traditional rice, I do cauliflower rice. Trust me, the combo of flavors here is delicious!

Kindness comes in all different forms, does it not? Sometimes the smallest act on a day where you feel like you're going through hell can make more of an impact than a grand gesture.

Melissa: What was a particular turning point in your life?
Idalia: I’ve been very blessed to have several turning points in my life. That’s not to say that they all were pleasant and welcoming experiences, but they all served a greater purpose. A couple of these moments have been : Moving to Los Angeles at 21; Moving to NYC at 30; Moving to Europe at 33…
Melissa: What particular thing that your younger self wouldn’t believe that you’ve done now?

Idalia: My younger self is probably my biggest cheerleader (her and my mom) – I think she would believe in everything that I’ve accomplished and is cheering me on to continue to follow my dreams.

Melissa: What particular business advice you would give someone who is just getting started in their career?
Idalia: Roll up your sleeves and do the work. I think one of the problems with social media is that the younger generation looks at successful people and think they got there overnight. We don’t tend to show the struggle it really takes to succeed. It takes years, and lots and lots of failure to be able to accomplish what it is you truly want. So doing the work, and being prepared to fail (actually welcoming failure!) is key.
Melissa: What particular moment inspired you to start your company?
Idalia: I remember living in NYC and thinking to myself there had to be more to this fashion/influencer industry than just booking jobs. I wanted to make a difference and help young women (and men) to find their voice, and be confident as business people. There was a big mirror in my bedroom where I would write down all my notes and thoughts and dreams of what Idalia INC would be. This took about three months until I finally decided to pull the trigger.
Melissa: What is a particular thing we forgot to ask that you want to tell us?
Idalia: Favorite books? Now that you know I’m a huge reader, I’d love to share some of favorites: The Alchemist, Sapiens, 10% Happier, Circe

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