How to Pitch Brands (Even If You’re a Small Creator)
If you’ve been sitting on the idea of pitching a brand but keep waiting until you “have more followers” or “a proper portfolio”… then this one’s for you.
Because my first brand pitch?
I had neither.
💌 The Email That Started It All
Back in August 2022, I found a red-light wellness company on LinkedIn that was looking to partner with creators. They were based near Toronto, and I thought, “Why not me?”
So I opened my laptop and sent this (above) no portfolio, no brand experience, just pure hopeful energy.
I signed off with Warmly, Kate (which makes me cringe now even thinking of this) and attached a little video of me talking to the camera. (My editing skills were… questionable, but we’re not here to judge past-Kate.)
Eleven minutes later, they replied saying they’d love to send me their product in exchange for videos. Eleven. Minutes. Later.
They never actually posted those videos (eek) but that email changed everything. It showed me that brands do respond, and you don’t need a massive following to get a “yes.” You just have to ask.
🧠 What Even Is a Pitch?
To me, a pitch is any time you’re “selling yourself” to a brand whether it’s through a DM, an email, or a video message.
Sometimes I’m pitching for paid UGC projects (content for their social channels), and sometimes it’s gifted collabs. The difference? Paid means you’re creating for them. Gifted means you’re creating for yourself using their product.
But either way, pitching is just introducing yourself and saying:
“Hey, I make great content, and I think it could help your brand.”
That’s it. No 10-page media kit. No agent. No magic formula. Just you showing up.
🎥 The Secret Sauce: My Video Pitch Method
My little “schtick” is sending a video pitch and honestly, it’s my not-so-secret weapon.
Here’s how I do it:
I set up my phone on a tripod.
I grab a coffee (I feel comfortable talking with something in my hand).
I record a quick, friendly 30-second video saying hello, why I love their brand, and how I could help.
Sometimes I even pop in a few clips of my past work so they can instantly see my filming and editing style.
It’s casual, real, and human.
Why does this work?
Because a brand gets to see what it’s actually like to work with you. They can hear your tone, see your personality, and imagine you in their next ad campaign.
🪄 The “No” That Turned Into a “Yes”
One of my favorite stories: I pitched a brand and and they politely replied that they didn’t have space for new collaborations.
A few weeks later, I followed up with a short video pitch, casually sharing my idea for a before/after-style video using their product. I ended with:
“No pressure at all, just thought I’d share how I could bring your product to life on camera.”
They said yes. And we’ve now worked together four more times over the past two years.
Lesson learned? Sometimes it’s not a “no.” It’s just a “not yet.”
💌 My Go-To Email Template
When you’re ready to pitch, keep it short, friendly, and confident.
Here’s one of my actual messages that’s worked really well:
Subject: UGC Video Content for [Brand Name]
Hi [Team Name],
Hope you’re having a great Tuesday! I saw your LinkedIn post about hiring a content creator and wanted to chat about how I could help you with some video content in the meantime.
I attached a quick video so you can get a feel for my style, and I’ve included my rate sheet as well. Happy to adjust based on your goals once we chat.
Do you have time this week for a quick call to go over ideas? :)
- Kate
It’s simple. It’s human. And it works.
📲 DM vs. Email: Which One Works Better?
I do both.
Usually, I’ll start with a DM to get the right contact. Something like:
“Hi! Your [product/service] has quickly become my daily staple and I would love to connect with you over content ideas. Is there a best email to connect with your marketing team about UGC content?”
Then I move to email to make it official.
If they redirect you to affiliate or PR contacts, gently clarify:
“Totally understand! Just to clarify, this would be content for your brand pages rather than my own, so I’d love to connect with whoever handles marketing or paid creative.”
Always polite. Always clear.
💡 Tips for Small Creators Who Want to Pitch
A few things I wish I knew sooner:
You don’t need a portfolio, you just need proof you can create. Record 3 sample videos for products you already love.
Be polite but persistent. A friendly follow-up after a week or two can go a long way.
Be specific. Instead of “I’d love to work with you,” try “I’d love to film a short setup video showing how your product fits into a busy mom morning.”
Keep it short. Brands get tons of messages. Respect their time and keep it punchy.
Make it about them. Focus on how you can help their brand look amazing, not why you love creating content.
🌟 From “Maybe Someday” to “Send It”
That first cold email led to my very first product trade.
That trade led to my first paid partnership.
And that partnership led to over 400+ videos I’ve now created for brands across Canada and beyond.
If I waited until I “felt ready,” I’d still be waiting.
So if you’re sitting there wondering whether to hit send…DO IT.
The worst that can happen? No reply.
The best that can happen? You build a whole creative career.
And if you want a little help getting started, I’ve bundled my exact templates, video examples, and tips in my digital guide: Land Your First Brand Deal
Now go grab a coffee, hit record, and send that email.
Your “yes” might just be waiting 11 minutes away!!☕️
