Go-To Gifts and Growing on Social Media With Hannah Bucknam
Since we’re talking all about gifting, we had the pleasure of speaking with the queen of TikTok gift guides, Hannah Bucknam. As a senior in college, Hannah gives us the low-down on what to ask for and where to buy all of your presents this year. Read to learn about her journey with social media as well!
Photo: @hannahbucknam
First, tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got started with social media.
I am 21 years old and senior in college (crazy), and I have always been obsessed with social media. I have always been extremely creative and have looked for different ways to express myself. Social media has been amazing for me because it has given me that outlet. I started an Instagram account when I was in 8th grade, but I would not say I started posting “blog” type content until 2019… so my presence today has been a long time coming. In 2019, I decided to start a YouTube channel which was very exciting for me because it was a new platform I could reach people on.
How would describe your personal style?
I would describe my style as authentic. I have always tried to wear things that I like, and that catch my eye. If I don’t like a trend I am not going to purchase something just to “fit in.” I am happiest when I stay true to myself, so I’ve made it my mission to wear whatever I feel best in. This usually includes statement pieces, colorful clothing, or a cool pair of sneakers.
Your style advice and gift guides on TikTok are some of our absolute favorites. What are some of your top picks for what to ask for this year?
Thank you! I feel like a lot of my followers have really enjoyed those videos. This year I think I am going to ask for a pair of Jordans. They have become extremely popular over the past year and it is definitely a trend I can get behind! I would also really like a Supreme bomber jacket I have been eyeing on Stock-X. I love a good jacket—they can really spice up any outfit!
Going off of that, do you have any inexpensive go-to gift ideas for anyone looking for a cool and trendy gift without breaking the bank?
I think a pair of converse is a great thing to ask for. I love the animal printed ones (cheetah and zebra!). I also love the CDG PLAY converse which are a little more expensive, but they’re adorable. Whenever I see someone wearing them, I am obsessed.
Where are some of your favorite places to shop for gifts and for yourself?
My first go-to place for a gift is Wildflower cases! They are my favorite phone cases and make a really fun gift for a friend. I also just bought my sister a ring from La Manso for Christmas. They are made out of recycled plastic and they’re stunning…definitely a great place to look for rings! Then, finally, The M Jewelers has great jewelry. They sell a year ring that people always ask me about on social media (mine says 1998). It is such a cool shape and I get so many compliments on it. Clearly I am very into jewelry this holiday season, but you cannot go wrong with a great accessory.
How do you go about finding cool items on Amazon and do you have any tips for shopping the site?
I am actually in the midst of creating my own Amazon shop page, so stay tuned for that! But I usually always search specific items I am looking for. I think the more specific you make your search the easier it’ll be to find the item you want. Additionally, a lot of influencers have created their own Amazon shop pages where you can find great items!
Tell us a little bit about your YouTube channel and what kind of content followers can look forward to in the upcoming months.
I started my YouTube channel after watching other creators’ videos. I realized how much I loved watching random people’s “day in the life” videos, and I wanted to see what it would be like making my own. As a kid, I used to always edit a family a video after all of our vacations, so I knew that editing would not be too challenging for me. I also knew that if I put my mind to it, I would be successful. I think the hardest part for anyone starting a channel is getting over the fact that people are definitely going to judge you and your content, but once you can overcome those thoughts, honestly the world is yours! It is not always easy, and I have definitely gotten my fair share of hate, but I do it because I genuinely have so much fun with it and I love getting to connect with people.
In the upcoming month, people can expect me to bring back Vlogmas! For those who do not know what that is, its essentially when YouTubers vlog everyday leading up to Christmas in the month of December. It has always been one of my favorite things to watch on YouTube, so I did it last year and am in the midst of filming for this year.
Follow Hannah on Instagram at @hannahbucknam