Aspiring Influencer Ana Montealegre’s Request for Free Cookies Sparks Fiery Response from Halfsies Cookie Company Owner in New York

An aspiring influencer reached out to a well-known New York cookie brand, hoping to collaborate before her wedding. However, the brand owner’s harsh response ignited an online debate about the influencer culture.

The Initial Contact

Last month, Ana Montealegre, a recent college graduate and budding influencer, contacted Halfsies Cookie Company to include their cookies in her bridal party boxes. David Maffei, the company’s owner, directed her to their website to place an order.

Seeking a Collaboration

Montealegre aimed for a collaboration, expecting free cookies in exchange for social media promotion. However, she underestimated the response she would receive.

The Owner’s Response

Maffei bluntly told Montealegre that she was not an influencer. He posted a video of the email exchange on Halfsies’ Instagram, highlighting her modest online following, including 904 TikTok followers.

The Exchange Continues

Montealegre defended herself, claiming to be a beginner influencer. Maffei sarcastically replied, “And I’m a beginner astronaut,” and added the song “For Free” by DJ Khaled to the video.

Online Reactions

The public witnessed Maffei’s critique of the influencer culture. He shared his perspective on how beginner influencers should start by buying and tagging products they like, not asking for freebies initially.

Maffei’s Final Thoughts

Maffei pointed out that even top influencers bought his cookies before getting any free samples. He noted his private account had more followers than Montealegre and criticized the entitlement of asking for free products.

Mixed Reactions

Online reactions were mixed. Some criticized Maffei for publicly embarrassing Montealegre, while others defended his stance against influencer entitlement.

The Brand’s Stance

Followers of Halfsies Cookie Company know Maffei often mocks social media stars and bachelorette party planners expecting freebies. He seems to believe that opposing this trend is an effective marketing strategy, possibly more so than giving out free treats to brides-to-be.

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