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Cathy Martin – The Creative Force Behind Belfast’s Fashion, Food, and Communications Landscape

In Blogger
April 08, 2025

Introduction

Cathy Martin, known to her 55,000 Instagram followers as @cathymartin, is far more than just a content creator. She is a seasoned professional in the realms of media, fashion, and public relations, whose work seamlessly blends style, storytelling, and strategic communication. Based in Northern Ireland, Cathy has cultivated a multi-faceted career that has seen her rise to prominence as a media consultant, fashion advocate, TEDx speaker, and passionate promoter of local businesses and creative initiatives.


Early Career and the Founding of CMPR

Cathy Martin’s journey into media and communications began with a vision to create a platform that bridged creativity with commercial insight. She is the founder and director of CMPR (Cathy Martin Public Relations), a Belfast-based communications agency that specializes in lifestyle and fashion PR. Over the years, CMPR has grown into one of Northern Ireland’s most respected boutique agencies, representing local designers, global brands, and luxury events.

Cathy’s professional ethos has always been rooted in authenticity and the power of storytelling. Through CMPR, she has been instrumental in crafting brand narratives that resonate with audiences across traditional and digital platforms. Her work in public relations and brand consultancy has had a lasting impact on the Northern Irish media landscape, providing a voice for emerging talents and innovative businesses.


Fashion with Purpose – Belfast Fashion Week

One of Cathy Martin’s most recognized accomplishments is her role as the driving force behind Belfast Fashion Week. As the founder and director of this biannual event, Cathy has played a key role in spotlighting Northern Irish fashion designers, promoting sustainability in style, and giving a platform to the next generation of creative talent.

Belfast Fashion Week is more than just a fashion show—it is a celebration of creativity, culture, and community. Under Cathy’s leadership, the event has grown in stature, attracting attention from global media and drawing crowds of fashion lovers, influencers, and industry insiders. Her commitment to sustainability is also evident, as she continues to use the platform to promote eco-conscious choices in the fashion world.


Digital Presence and Personal Brand

On Instagram, Cathy Martin offers a vibrant and carefully curated look into her personal and professional life. Her content is an engaging blend of fashion insights, family moments, food recommendations, and event highlights, reflecting the multi-dimensional nature of her work. Whether she’s attending a runway show, speaking at a TEDx event, or enjoying a quiet moment with her family, Cathy’s posts are marked by elegance, honesty, and a love for local culture.

Her presence on social media isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about authenticity. Cathy uses her platform to uplift others, share valuable knowledge, and promote meaningful collaborations. As the founder of The F Words Online, a blog and content hub centered around fashion, food, family, and other lifestyle themes, she has created a digital space where followers can engage with thoughtful and trend-savvy content.


Collaborations and Community Engagement

Cathy Martin’s work extends far beyond the screen. She is an active community leader and collaborator who is regularly involved in public speaking, workshops, and nonprofit initiatives. A TEDx speaker, Cathy has delivered talks on creativity, wellness, and entrepreneurship, inspiring audiences to find purpose in their passions.

She is also a strong advocate for mental health, wellness, and female empowerment. Her involvement with wellness products like @compressocup, and her support of female-led enterprises and community events, speaks volumes about her dedication to meaningful impact. Cathy often champions local businesses and artisans, using her influence to give visibility to those who might otherwise remain under the radar.


Awards and Recognition

Cathy’s contributions to the creative industries have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous accolades for her work in fashion, media, and business. Her role in shaping the cultural narrative of Belfast has earned her recognition not only from industry peers but also from government and tourism bodies keen to showcase Northern Ireland’s talent and innovation.

In addition to her own personal achievements, Cathy is known for empowering others to reach their potential. Her mentorship of young professionals, particularly women entering the fields of media and fashion, has created a legacy of leadership that continues to inspire.


A Balancing Act: Family and Lifestyle

While Cathy Martin’s professional accomplishments are impressive, she also values balance and personal well-being. On Instagram, she often shares glimpses into her family life, home routines, and wellness practices. These posts add a layer of relatability to her profile, reminding followers that behind the public persona is a mother, partner, and individual navigating life with authenticity and grace.

Her food content often highlights healthy living, local restaurants, and recipes that reflect her lifestyle philosophy: nourishing body and mind. She seamlessly integrates family life into her digital brand, creating content that resonates with working parents, creatives, and those seeking inspiration in everyday life.


Looking Ahead

As Cathy Martin continues to evolve her brand and professional journey, there’s little doubt that her influence will keep growing. With upcoming editions of Belfast Fashion Week, new brand partnerships, and ongoing advocacy for local business and sustainable living, she remains at the forefront of Northern Ireland’s creative class.

Her ability to merge traditional media with digital storytelling makes her a valuable voice in an ever-changing industry. Cathy’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose.


Conclusion

Cathy Martin exemplifies what it means to be a modern multi-hyphenate: a public relations expert, fashion advocate, digital creator, and community builder. Through her agency CMPR, her leadership in events like Belfast Fashion Week, and her engaging social media presence, she continues to shape the conversation around fashion, lifestyle, and communications in Northern Ireland and beyond.

Whether you follow her for style inspiration, professional insight, or lifestyle tips, Cathy Martin is a name—and a voice—you’ll want to keep on your radar.