The future Akshay Sharma foresees for his personal brand is breaking gender norms & creating mind-blowing content. In this interview, he shares the present and past that lead to Never Stay Sober.
On his blog and social media channels, Never Stay Sober, you'd find a curation of a brand's Summer Collection, shenanigans, Food & Nightlife reviews like 'drinks you must try' and more. How it all began and what went behind the scenes - Sharma tells us.
Looking back, where did it all begin?
Bad break up, body issues, low self-esteem & so much more. You name it, I had it. Later on, I realised only you be your judge. Slowly, steadily I started working on myself both mentally & physically. It’s been 3 years now & I’m never looking back!
What's in the name?
Never Stay Sober - the idea of blogging came up when on one fine day a friend of mine said “dude you party all the time in these amazing clubs & lounges & go crazy on drinks” why don’t you start reviewing them as well. I was like “ not a bad idea” and hence came the name Never stay sober. Later when I got into fashion & lifestyle, the name still was so apt as my style is very experimental & out of the box & not at all sober.
What is your USP in this cluttered space? How does your content give you an edge?
I’m just trying to be real out there. It’s scary because people judge you all the time but honestly at this point of time in my life, I give zero fu#@s. USP- Breaking stereotypical norms in fashion with androgyny, experimental streetwear, etc.
Please take us through your content creation process. How do you stay relevant and relatable?
Research is the key. I’m not necessary creating content just because it’s trending. At the same time, if something trendy hits me hard, I don’t mind giving it a shot. Coming to being relevant & relatable, I have a niche. In a sense that I know what kind of followers do I have & what are their expectations.
How do you make moolah with your efforts?
If you’re doing what you love, money will definitely become its byproduct & I believe in it.
How do you maintain editorial objectivity with the influx of brand briefs?
I try to blend in my style, thoughts, creativity with expectations of the brand and eventually come up with content which satisfies both our objectives.
7) One instance/experience that made it all worthwhile
Being recognised in fashion weeks, Magazines (my mum & dad were so proud & showing off their son’s feature to their friends makes it all worthwhile) Also, randomly encountered by an admirer at a party or a mall. Getting DMs & messages by people telling me I inspire them.
Weirdest brand brief/request ever
“Can you try & be basic? Like less over the top” or “Can you tell your followers that this the best skincare brand ever” ( you don’t say these things & I don’t believe in ingenuine reviews)
If not blogging, you would be?
I’m doing my masters in fashion. And I have done Chartered Accountancy before. Let’s say I have plans & backups.
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