Starting out, Brothers Ryan and Andrew Beltran set out to redefine the watch industry and launched Original Grain via Kickstarter becoming the third most successful fashion campaign in history.
“When we started, the goal was to create a watch that simply didn't exist. Watches have always used the same materials and lacked innovation. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, we were inspired to use a seamless combination of all-natural wood and stainless steel.”
With their two main goals to “create timeless timepieces and tell timeless stories”, Ryan and Andrew realized early on the impact Instagram could have for their business.
“Instagram is the first place people tend to look when they hear about a new brand. It establishes credibility with the customer and gives them a snapshot of what your brand is all about.”
Original Grain was built on a direct to consumer business model with online sales being the large majority of their revenue, so they reached out to us to help them extend their reach to their ideal customer.
“With Kicksta, we’re able to see the impact they have on our Instagram account based on the engagement they drive, most of which we would not be able to do on our own.”
“We see consistent traffic come in from Kicksta on our backend analytics reports.”
While we focused on growing the awareness, they were able to put the focus back on perfecting their signature rustic look that encompasses an adventure seeking lifestyle.
Now with over 150k followers on Instagram, Original Grain has a massive audience that they can market to and drive to their website for purchases.
”We drive 15% of our online sales from Instagram each month.”
When asked the secret to running a successful Instagram account, the brothers answered, “Authenticity. Without that, people are not going to engage. It's about establishing your brand voice and sticking to it.”
“Kicksta has been instrumental in helping us expand our reach into new audiences who eventually become customers or even partner.”
Along with the Kicksta service, the Original Grain team works with influencers, conducts contest, and advertises via sponsored post to ensure that they use that platform to its full potential.
“It's important to always be adapting. We’re constantly looking for new ways to use the channel to market the brand.”
Now with their established social credibility, Original Grain has been able to land big brand partnership to further enrich the quality of their designs, such as the incorporation of Jim Beam Bourbon barrels and the Golden State Warriors championship floor.
“It';s important to always be adapting. We’re constantly looking for new ways to use Instagram to market the brand.”
“Kicksta has helped me consistently gain legitimate and engaged followers each month”
Todd Pinckney, Solopreneur
Read next case study: Todd Pinckney Photography
