Overview
My book publicity services are enriched by an additional 15 years in public relations and other book experience: Community Relations Manager with Barnes & Noble and an indie bookstore, book reviewer and reporter for Gannett, editing and marketing for academic publisher SETAC, and PR for non-profits.
In 2007 I earned my APR (accredited in public relations) from the PRSA, a distinction held by only 10% of PR professionals. I've been a member of PRSA since 1995. My company was recently chosen by Expertise as one of 19 best PR firms out of 148 in Atlanta.
I've had the pleasure of working with authors who are independently published and also with traditionally-published authors and their in-house publicists. My clients come from all corners of the US, plus England, and represent many diverse backgrounds. One of the aspects of my current job that I appreciate the most is the unique quality of each author and book. Each day is different!
Services
Non-Fiction
Fiction
Awards
- Chosen as one of 19 best PR firms out of 148 in Atlanta by Expertise
Certifications
- APR (accredited in public relations by PRSA)
Work experience
Self-employed
I create and complete customized publicty plans for each book, taking into account the author platform and genre. Before the launch date, I put together the media kit (author bio, book synopsis, endorsements, talking points, author Q&A, flyer for speakers), advise on the website and social media, build media lists for the target audience, set up events, and start pitching media and other review sources. As of the launch, I continue with event planning, media pitching, proposing for book festivals / conferences, and submitting for awards. Some campaigns take four months and other authors, with multiple titles, continue for years. Each plan is personalized for a specifc author with their input.
Peachtree Publishers
From August 2001 - May 2007
Responsible for publicity for all titles: children's, parenting, health, education, and regional. Propose authors and illustrators for educational conferences, trade shows, and literary festivals. Provide media relations, oversee budget, supervise publicity department and interns.
Barnes & Noble
Coordinated grand opening for store in Pensacola and achieved record attendance and sales for region. Developed and directed more than two dozen monthly events and book signings. Created all publicity. Organized "First Book" Local Advisory Board for children's literacy with the local ABC-TV affiliate. Worked with schools and businesses.
Max Communications
Edited and promoted books, including national media campaigns, tour booking, and target outreach. Marketed science books for SETAC (Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry). Reviewed books and wrote human interest stories for The Pensacola News Journal. Developed and implemented PR plan for five-county "Leave a Legacy" program; won national award for best new chapter in 2000. PR for Santa Rosa Medical Center. Coordinated "Partners in Fatherhood," a responsible county fatherhood initiative.
Audubon Court Books
Created and managed author program for indie bookstore in Milwaukee, Wis. Brought in 200+ authors such as John Grisham, Deepak Chopra, Carl Sagan, and Dave Barry. Coordinated all publicity and advertising. Created niche-market programs including story time, chess, poetry, live music and theater events. Awarded "Best Place to Hang Out " by Milwaukee Magazine in 1994.