Why do some creators blow up while others stay stuck at 1,000 followers? It might be the meme!

Let’s dive into how creators and brands are using memes to build their presence, expand their reach, and stop the scroll without selling out.

What Is Meme Culture and Why It Works 

Memes are the internet’s version of shorthand—bite-sized jokes, commentary, or pop culture references that carry massive relatability.

They spread fast, evolve quickly, and reflect what people are feeling right now. In a world flooded with content, memes cut through the noise because they’re simple, emotional, and instantly recognizable.

For creators, memes aren't just entertainment—they’re fuel for audience connection. They make your content funny, current, and most importantly—shareable.

How to Spot Meme Trends Early

If you want to be early, not late to a trend, you need to think like a meme scout by…

• Feed research. I don’t love saying it but an occasional doom scroll session may be necessary.

• Surfing subreddits like r/memes and find others in your niche like r/carmemes or r/relationshipmemes.

• Utilize the research in TikTok Creative Center and CapCut template trends. Memes aren’t always images—viral audios and skit formats work the same way.

• Check out Meme-heavy accounts like: @influencersinthewild, @kalesalad, @memezar, @overheardla, @dudewithsign, @nottheworstmom and @sainthoax.

• Use tools like Know Your Meme and Trendpop to catch rising formats.

Your FYP is your radar. If a format is everywhere, it’s time to make your version before it fades.

How to Adapt Memes to Your Brand

Now you've found a meme format—but how do you make it yours?

1. Pick a format and concept that fits your niche. If you're a fashion creator, lean into high vs. low fashion memes. If you’re a movie buff, try “POV: You’re watching Twilight for the first time in 10 years.” etc.

2. Make it personal and contextually specific. Commentary, ironic takes, or personal context make memes unique to you.

3. Keep it lo-fi and casual using tools like Canva or CapCut. High production can kill the humor. Use native editing tools or apps like CapCut, Imgflip, or Canva for simple meme edits.

Influencer Example: Hayley Kalil

Hayley, aka @hayleybaylee, is a perfect example of how to make meme formats brand-defining.

She reenacts viral audios and observational skits, often mixing high fashion and everyday tracksuits/lofi, that create a relatable contrast that is hilarious, scroll-stopping, and instantly recognizable.

She proves you can stay on trend without ever losing your voice.

Brand Example: Ryanair 

@Ryanair turned their Instagram and TikTok accounts into a full-on meme pages. They use green screen jokes, POV memes, and self-aware commentary to troll their own flights. The content is savage, chaotic, and completely on-brand.

Remember: You don’t have to be polished. Just be memorable.

Meme Marketing Dos & Don’t

Do:

• Make memes specific to your audience

• Use trends to express your personality

• Move fast

Don't:

• Force it if it doesn't fit your voice

• Overproduce

• Miss the trend window

Some of the most successful meme accounts didn’t just use memes—they invented them. @Dudewithsign,  @nottheworstmom, and @overheardLA created formats that now feel iconic. Your jokes, your quirks, your POV can become a meme format others copy. Remember, Memes are the internet’s inside jokes—and if you can make your audience feel like they’re in on it, you’re building loyalty and growth.

Whether you're launching a product, building your persona, or just vibing with your followers, meme culture gives you a fast lane to relevance.