It’s also a good idea to comment on one of their recent photos asking to check their DM’s in a polite way. There is a high chance your message has slipped into their requested messages which means there is even less chance of them seeing it.

In your initial message, make it short and sweet. Don’t tire them out with paragraphs about who you are and what you’re offering. Just make initial contact and take it from there if you get a response. 

Finding brands to contact is one of the most important parts of the puzzle. Try to find brands that are already working with other creators. If you come across a brand that hasn’t worked with other creators, it’s unlikely they will be interested. This is why it’s best to stick to brands that are continually working with creators, even better if they are working with people who have similar accounts to your own. Similar style of content, a similar amount of followers, etc. 

Then it’s just a matter of quantity and contacting a bunch of these brands to see if any are willing to collaborate. After the first few successful collaborations, you will have results to show other brands and you might find some reaching out to you instead of you having to be on the front foot.