Inside the world of Elena Tee

The Florentine content creator takes us to a lesson in style and bon ton

What made you begin your social media adventure?

The first time I heard about YouTube was 2009. I was expecting at the time, I did not have many friends and felt I needed to do something for myself. I had no idea about this world but I was keen to learn about this whole new way of communicating.

Where did you get your inspiration for your videos?

It all started when I saw the first American beauty influencers such as Michelle Phan or Ingrid Nilsen. I loved their way of communicating; they were so direct and their videos were short and full of content. Such effective and quick communication could never exist in real life.

Three of the most stylish places where to go in Florence.

I really like the furnishings and the tortellini of Gucci Osteria, the chic and original way they set their tables at The Place and the face powder museum at the Olfattorio Bar a Parfums.

What do you like doing when you are away from social media?

I love going for a walk along the avenues near Piazzale Michelangelo, visiting the Bardini Garden at the end of April when the wisteria is in full bloom and the Iris Garden blooming in May. But I also like wandering around the centre, discovering new places and eating in some nice restaurant with my family.

A good reason to read Consigli da amica?

It is a good read! (laughs, ed) Apart from joking, in Consigli da amica, I explain the most important rules you need to learn if you want to become a better person.

Your advice to visit Florence for the first time?

Plan everything well in advance and carefully choose the places to visit. Even lesser-known attractions such as the church of Saints Simone and Giuda or the Basilica of Santa Maria del Carmine which houses the cycle of frescoes of the Brancacci Chapel.