Yes, TikTok is for moms
When I created a TikTok profile in April 2020, I had no idea that I would amass a following of almost 40,000 people around the world. Over the past two years, I have discovered that I wasn’t alone in my TikTok journey and even found company in some of our own CityMoms who did the same!
CityMom Kira and daughter Grace have fun making TikTok videos together.
During quarantine, TikTok was a way for me to entertain myself. I could see what other people around the world were doing during an unusual time. We were all in our homes, trying to work and educate our kids, while our mental health was slipping (especially for us mamas). I felt less alone as I realized that TikTok wasn’t just for Gen Z, but for everyone. I started making silly videos, lip-syncing to various sounds, and attempting terrible “TikTok Dances” – I think we’re past the “wipe it down challenge,” right? - and was having so much fun.
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I try to keep my videos as positive as I can, but I think it’s OK (and important!) to talk about serious matters from time to time. A few months after I joined I decided to share stories about my experiences with infertility, the traumatic birth of our daughter, as well as various thoughts on mental health. I am constantly amazed by the number of people who can relate, feel seen, or share their appreciation for my vulnerability.
Kira dressed as Joe Exotic for one of her videos.
CityMom Kailly joined for similar reasons; our kiddos are a few weeks apart and were about 18 months old when the world shut down. She went through some life transitions and says “I started using TikTok during the pandemic but I was just posting videos of my husband.” When she and her husband divorced, she wanted to continue posting but began to put the lens on herself. Her content now reflects her life, the causes she supports, and some pretty awesome outfits! Kailly makes it a point to share the ways she helps to create an environment of awareness and acceptance for her son. You can follow her at @thekaillyjo and while you’re there, be sure to check out some of her crazy dating stories!
LOOKING FOR MORE? Check out this list from Momtastic: 7 Real Life Moms You Should Follow on TikTok
In addition to posting for fun, Kailly and I have reached the content creator part of TikTok, which allows users to generate income and incorporate partnerships in their videos. At this point, TikTok has become an income source for me, though what I’m posting hasn’t changed. People often ask how much money I make, and sorry to disappoint, but I’m not telling.
Find CityMom Kailly on TikTok at @thekaillyjo
If you’re ready to jump into TikTok, here are a few real-life mamas that I recommend:
Mama Vondy is a rockstar mom of four! She had two of those babies during the pandemic and documented her pregnancy and birth journeys. But her singing is what reels me in every time, she creates witty songs about everything from postpartum care to meltdowns at Target. Check her out at @thevondyfam.
The Honest Mom has shared a lot about the real hard truth about how isolating motherhood can be. She focuses on cycle-breaking behaviors and mental health while offering a safe space for her followers to gather and discuss. You can follow her at @diaryofanhonestmom.
Proud American Mama is another female content creator I enjoy. She has trademarked the cork crown and sported it throughout the pandemic. I can honestly say that I always feel happier after watching her. She’s so upbeat and relatable! You can follow her (and find out what a cork crown is) at @proudamericanmama.
Kat showcases single motherhood after divorce, and could rival any SNL cast member in hilarity. She's super animated and you won’t regret giving her a follow at @katstickler.
Lindsey Gurk hilariously places herself in the shoes of her two littles with her daily reels and TikTok's - she's worth everything! Follow her at @lindseygurk.
And of course, don’t forget to follow @theCityMoms!
On TikTok, I give myself permission to be my authentic self. On other social media sites, I’m worried family or close friends will think I’m an insane person because yes, I like to dance all over my house. And while there is money to be found on TikTok if you can find a niche that garners interest and followers, it’s not about a paycheck for me. I want to feel a connection outside of my local community. Whatever your goal is for TikTok, like all social media, it’s important to make it what you want. And remember, you don’t have to post videos to join (and enjoy) the community!
Kira is the Indianapolis Director for theCityMoms. You can follow her on TikTok @kthoms83. If you stop by, please say hi!
