INFLUENCE HER

What do you get when you combine a media-trained on-air personality, a social media influencer, a marketing strategist, an events producer and a content creator? A rapidly rising force to be reckoned with.

BY NICK STEELE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SANDRASONIK

AAlexia Gonzalez stands apart from the eager throng of social media influencers producing endless user-generated content. With more than a decade in broadcasting, public relations, marketing and production, she has parlayed her unique set of skills into a marketable commodity for brands that need the kind of dynamic creative content and activations that she can deliver. But there’s more to the story, Gonzalez describes herself as a “modern storyteller,” driven by a passion for connecting people, brands and communities through authentic experiences.

Raised in Miami, she was immersed in the Hispanic broadcast media as both of her parents worked in the industry.

“I was literally raised running through radio station hallways putting on live shows for the staff, sneaking into DJ booths and hanging out backstage,” she recalls. “I fell in love with storytelling early on through acting, music and writing.”

That exposure eventually led her to land a role in the Spanish-language mini-series Gabriel, Amor Inmortal. She even recorded a Billboard-charting pop single with Sony Records which was featured on the show’s soundtrack.

She stepped away from her fledgling acting career to pursue a master’s degree in multicultural marketing and digital studies from Florida State University, which eventually led her into the world of public relations, marketing and content creation. This allowed her to represent clients as a brand spokesperson, appearing on television and radio shows, as well as contributing to publications like USA Today, The Huffington Post and Haute Living.

“That took me all over the world, hosting press trips, brand activations and telling stories for brands like Hard Rock and Marriott,” she recalls. “But I always felt pulled back to the creative side, cultivating stories that connect. That’s what fuels me and my business, The Gala Group—blending strategy with my love for authentic storytelling, while staying deeply connected to my community here in St. Pete.”

She has manifested that commitment to staying connected through the creation of St. Pete Gals, a thriving collective that offers content creators, entrepreneurs, artists and business owners an opportunity to collaborate and connect.

“When I first moved to St. Pete, I didn’t know anyone. It was the women in this community who welcomed me, opened doors and gave me the connections that allowed me to thrive. I wanted to pay that forward and create a space where other women could feel that same sense of belonging and support,” she explains. “At the heart of it, the mission is simple: to uplift, inspire and celebrate women.”

She channels that same energy into her marketing pursuits.

“My favorite part of what I do is creating content that connects with people while shining a light on the best of my community,” she shares. “Those stories are what make up the unique mosaic of our city. Behind every brand or campaign, there’s a deeper story. That’s exactly where my love for media and PR meet. I’m constantly looking for ways to make connections and help others grow their own brands. If I visit a new location or event, I usually have my phone up filming and sharing what’s happening in real time.”

The ”real time” aspect is one that requires a great deal of energy and flexibility.

“No two days in my life are ever the same and I love that. One day might start with hot yoga before filming and posting reels, then I might be involved in a TV segment. Another day could be traveling for a client collaboration, hosting a morning radio show or bringing one of my projects to life. I’ve had days where I’ve eaten at five restaurants just to capture content.”

And while she flies high and fast, she has a secret to staying grounded.

“My husband Michael is the rock to my kite. I’m constantly buzzing around, meeting new people, chasing ideas…he’s my steady balance,” she says. “I like to call him my human Xanax. He’s the reason I had the courage to step away from the corporate world to start my own business five years ago. He’s been there through every whim and every wild idea. He is my best friend and partner in everything.”

When asked who has had the greatest impact on her life, she answers without pause.

“Hands down, my mama, Lourdes Garcia, has had the biggest influence. She’s a bilingual immigrant from Cuba who went from beauty queen to powerhouse executive. Her story still blows me away,” she shares. “Growing up in a dictatorship, fleeing with my grandparents, starting over in multiple countries and then finally landing in Miami where she built a successful career. Her magnetic energy, resilience and kindness inspire me every day”

Expect to see a lot more from this high-flying modern storyteller, who is coming at you in real time.

Alexia wears a dress by Bobbles & Lace St. Pete. Visit thegalalife.com to learn more.