In 8th grade, I was assigned to write a five-page short story. I ended up getting stuck inside the story and writing over twenty pages.
When my sister and I were kids, we would play “catalog business.” She’d handle the bookkeeping and the product photos; I’d write the descriptions.
A fascination with communicating through words carried me through my childhood and has compelled me through my adult life as well. I love book clubs and mentoring teens who love reading and writing.
I’ve been editing for more than 10 years—as a freelancer since 2011. I love the freedom and flexibility my freelance writing and editing provide. These elements allow me to collaborate with each client to tailor my services to their needs. I’m a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association and have taught several workshops with the Boston chapter.
I spent more than 3 years as an associate editor for Writer’s Digest Books. I edited 8-10 books each year, coordinated Writer’s Digest writing competitions, and helped with Writer’s Digest magazine and Writer’s Digest University. My work there gave me a unique window into the inner workings of the publishing world and the writing life. Through my work, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with bestselling authors, industry leading agents, and everyday writers. I’ve gotten to write and edit compelling content from books and magazines, to websites and social media, to marketing and business communications.
I was also the communications director for Stop Traffick Fashion for 4 years; STF is a boutique that sells jewelry, handbags, and t-shirts made by survivors of human trafficking. There I coordinated the blog, wrote web copy, and handled promotional correspondence. I love merging my passions for writing and restoring hope to exploited people. I’ve visited the headquarters of one of STF’s vendors, Freeset, in Kolkata, India.
I was also a senior writer for Blue Crane Communications for 4 years, where I wrote fundraising letters, newsletters, and other marketing copy for nonprofit organizations to promote and empower their overall mission and current initiatives.
I graduated from Miami University with a degree in Adolescent English Education and am a former middle school language arts teacher.
I love reading, writing, sharing, and listening to stories. My nonliterary endeavors include cooking and swimming. I live in Cincinnati with my husband, who is a minister, and my son, who is adorable.