Tik Tok and Never Stop
There is almost no better song to describe the fun-loving Kelianne Stankus than Ke$ha’s 2009 party hit, Tik Tok. Of course, this multi-hyphenate entrepreneur is known for her success on the social media platform that shares the same moniker, but the similarities go even deeper. Stankus is not out at all hours of the night living it up, but her life does seem like a party. And with all of the accomplishments she has got under her belt — there are plenty of mornings where she wakes up feeling like Diddy.
Photographer: Haldane Morris
The party mainly never stops for Stankus because she has got her finger on the pulse of everything in the entertainment industry. Actually, calling her an “entertainer” just would not do her justice. The gymnast-philanthropist-singer-songwriter-dancer-actress-influencer-Tik Tok starlet knew from an early age that she wanted to pursue a career in the entertainment industry; so she did. “I truly believe that anything and everything is possible,” begins Stankus. “Work hard, stay focused and persevere no matter what obstacles come your way. And most importantly, love and be passionate about what you do.” The modern day, self-made woman has won national awards for her gymnastic endeavors, appeared on the Ellen show, and amassed a mere 7 million followers across her social media platform, all before the age of 25.
Most people her age would struggle to navigate through the industry. People who rise to fame as quickly as Stankus tend to fall for their own hype, but this blonde beauty has been able to stay level headed through all of the change and has remained grounded in the midst of the wilderness that is fame. Professional, loyal and fearless, “this industry is a good fit for me because I am super confident and secure with myself and who I am,” states the influencer. “As long as I share that with the world, I don’t have to worry about anything. I am in this for the long haul and I will continue to do my best and stay grounded, reliable, responsible and professional.” Grateful for her upbringing and selective with her inner circle, staying close to her family and friends has helped Stankus to keep her eye on the prize — to succeed. With the new generation of young women entering the social media scene, the seasoned starlet is proud to see that more and more women are really savvy to the business side of the industry. “Don’t let people take advantage of you,” advises Stankus, “stay true to who you are.”
“I truly believe that anything and everything is possible.”
At the moment, this media maven is focused on her music career. Having just released new music with heart throbs Tayler Holder and Nate Wyatt, aka The Trio, their voices truly complement each other so well. They may not be a band, but with their Christmas songs being such a hit, we are sure fans are vying for more. A long-time passion for Stankus, we can confirm more solo projects will definitely be coming to the fore. “I grew up in a very musical family. I am excited to be on the next part of my musical journey, writing and creating my own original music,” shares Stankus.
Making the most of an uncertain situation, quarantine has proven pretty good for the multi-talented, multi-faceted artist. Immersing herself in creating content and making her own mark in this industry, Stankus, like most of us, has also learned to not take the little things for granted. Going to be thinking back to this time in history for more than the global pandemic, Stankus is also newly engaged to the love of her life, Chase Mattson. He popped the question with a gorgeous cushion cut ring, with a delicate halo and a pave diamond band. The couple is picture perfect, but all eyes will be on Stankus during the wedding, so she is spending tons of time looking for the ideal wedding gown. Like all other Covid brides Stankus has been “pinning” non-stop. With so many options, this soon-to-be bride has no idea where she will land, but one thing is for sure — she is going to try them all on!
When it comes to her everyday fashion, Stankus does not need Pinterest. She loves to be fun with fashion, but most importantly she wants to just look good and feel better in whatever she wears. Finding inspiration for her looks anywhere — from movies and music to scrolling through her Instagram feed — in true quarantine fashion, her go to outfit right now is her favorite pair of cozy joggers that she can dress up or down. Pair that with a bold eye and a good swipe of voluminous mascara and she is ready to take on whatever the day throws her way.
Stankus’ journey thus far has been a dream come true and she is ready to tackle the next project, and maybe even add a new hyphenation to her incredible list of credentials. Unapologetically loving and kind, she would like to say these words: “No matter who you are or where you are from, we are all in this together. Things are going to turn around this year, things are getting better.”
“Work hard, stay focused and persevere no matter what obstacles come your way. And most importantly, love and be passionate about what you do.”
