Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssa Pietraniello.
Hi Alyssa, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always had a creative and entrepreneurial spirit. I started my first business, AEPCustomz LLC, in 2020 during college, customizing apparel and turning it into a full e-commerce brand that shipped nationwide and generated over $100K in sales. That experience taught me everything from branding and marketing to customer relations; and sparked my love for digital strategy.
After graduating from Iona College with a BBA in Marketing and being recognized by the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, I joined an Advertising Company as a Senior Account Executive. There, I manage digital marketing programs for hundreds of clients across the U.S., specializing in SEO, paid search, and social media strategy.
Outside of my 9–5, I’ve built my personal brand across social media, collaborating with lifestyle and beauty brands through content creation. I’m also passionate about music and entertainment — I see myself merging my marketing background with my creative side to help artists and brands grow their digital presence in authentic, impactful ways.
Overall, my journey has been about staying true to my passions, learning through every chapter, and continuously evolving — whether that’s in business, marketing, or the creative world.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road — but every challenge has shaped me into who I am today. When I first started my business, I was a full-time college student balancing classes, a part-time job, and building AEPCustomz from the ground up. There were moments of self-doubt, burnout, and learning through trial and error. I didn’t have a roadmap — I just had passion, creativity, and determination to make something out of nothing.
Transitioning into the corporate world brought new challenges too — learning to navigate fast-paced environments, client expectations, and constantly evolving digital trends. I’ve had to master the art of adapting, trusting my instincts, and not letting setbacks define me.
On a personal level, I’ve also faced periods where I questioned my path — whether to stay comfortable in what I know or take risks to chase what truly excites me, like music and entertainment. But I’ve learned that growth happens outside your comfort zone, and every obstacle has ultimately led me closer to my purpose.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I work at an advertising company where I manage digital marketing programs for clients across the U.S. I specialize in helping businesses strengthen their online presence through SEO, paid search, and digital content strategies that drive real results — from increased visibility to quality leads and long-term growth.
Outside of my 9–5, I’m a creator and entrepreneur at heart. I started my first business, AEPCustomz LLC, in college — a custom apparel brand that shipped nationwide and surpassed six figures in sales. That experience taught me how to not just market a brand, but build one — from creative direction and customer engagement to social media and e-commerce.
What I’m most proud of is how I’ve been able to merge strategy with creativity — whether that’s developing data-driven campaigns for clients, producing lifestyle and beauty content for social media, or collaborating with brands I love.
What sets me apart is my ability to bridge both worlds — the analytical and the creative. I understand the numbers behind growth, but I also know how to tell a story that connects. I approach everything I do with authenticity, intention, and the belief that no idea is too small to evolve into something impactful.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I’ve been really fortunate to have amazing people in my corner who’ve supported me along the way. My family has always been my biggest source of motivation — they’ve believed in me even when I doubted myself, and their encouragement has pushed me to keep going through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship and career growth.
I also owe a lot to the mentors and colleagues I’ve met throughout my journey. I’ve learned so much from those who’ve taken the time to share their knowledge, offer honest feedback, and remind me to dream bigger. Being part of programs like Next Gem Femme has also been a game changer — connecting me with inspiring women in the music and entertainment industry who’ve helped me see how far passion and perseverance can take you.
And of course, my friends and creative peers — the ones who cheer me on, brainstorm with me, and celebrate every small win — they’ve played such a big role in keeping me grounded and inspired. Having that kind of community makes all the difference.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssapxo/?hl=en
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyssa-pietraniello-a85433201
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@alyssapxo_?_r=1&_t=ZP-91EI4fhkqbv
