Today we’d like to introduce you to Tori Wade.
Tori, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
This time last year, I was working full-time as a nanny while juggling a side gig as a social media manager for two small, local businesses. I loved being in the world of content creation, but I often felt creatively boxed in. As someone who thrives on authenticity, that started to wear on me, so, I started creating content on my own terms.
I began by partnering with Hummingbirds, doing small campaigns in exchange for trades or Visa gift cards. I pulled from the experience I’d built over the years – from taking broadcast journalism classes in high school to co-hosting a podcast in college – and taught myself how to edit Reels. What started as a fun side project quickly turned into a creative outlet that finally felt like me.
I focused on the things I knew and loved:
• Fun things to do with my husband and our two-year-old daughter, Scout
• Affordable style for moms and kids
• Mom humor
• and all things Kansas City – restaurants, shopping, self-care services, and more!
Now, I’ve transitioned to nannying part-time and spend the rest of my week creating content for local businesses and my own audience of amazing Kansas City moms. This work brings me so much joy – not only because it’s fun and creative, but because it allows me to connect with moms who are doing their best to find beauty (and humor!) in the chaos just like me.
Along the way, I’ve also connected with the incredible Kansas City influencer community, especially other mom creators, and helped form Moms Meet KC, a meetup group where we bring local moms together for playdates, connection, and real-life community.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned since starting this journey, it’s this: When you follow what feels authentic to you, the right opportunities will follow.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The times when I struggled the most were actually before I started treating content creation as a job. I was nannying full-time, balancing life as a stay-at-home working mom, and still putting in multiple hours every day capturing content, editing, responding to emails, and networking, all without really giving myself permission to take it seriously. It was exhausting, I was spread too thin, plus I was missing out on collaboration opportunities because of my busy schedule. Once I found a space where I could scale back my working hours and finally jump over the hurdle of imposter syndrome, things started to shift. I stopped cringing when people referred to me as an “influencer” and began seeing content creation not just as a passion, but as a job: valuable, creative, and fulfilling work. Now I can pour time into my account without burning myself out in the process.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
The content I create is rooted in real life, especially the unfiltered moments of motherhood. I love sharing fun things to do around Kansas City with my daughter, Scout, but I also make space for the everyday chaos that comes with raising a toddler. From affordable style finds and self-care tips to messy living rooms and mom-hacks, I try to show motherhood as it actually is – beautiful, overwhelming, funny, and full of small joys. My goal is to create content that makes other moms feel seen, encouraged, and a little less alone in the day-to-day.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories is how my mom was always a “do-er.” We were almost never home just sitting around, we were out doing some kind of activity, on a trip, at a friend’s house, or shopping. Her energy and love for staying busy created a sense of adventure in everyday life, and I see that same spirit reflected in how I parent Scout. I love keeping our days filled with fun experiences, exploring new places, and making memories together.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/kccoolmom
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573204776352
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@tori.kccoolmom
