Slay in Your Lane

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January 2023 Issue

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Good news, we're passed the point in January where we have to wish everyone we see a "Happy New Year!" Bad news, that doesn't mean we're past dealing with all the "New Year feels,” like hope, excitement...the all-consuming anxiety about what the f*ck we're doing with our business. I feel you!

It's also the time of year clients often confess that rather than diving headfirst into resolving their whirlpool of woes, they get sucked into mindless Insta-scrolling, only to come out of the deep end dripping in resentment of their industry friends. You know, the “friend” in their networking group who always seems to be sunning themselves on a fancy fam trip or basking in the glow of their recent “best of” list placement.

Whether a big fish in the industry pond fending off guppies nipping at their toes or a newbie swimming hard upstream to make a splash, it’s easy to get pulled into the depths of the comparison trap from time to time.

If you’ve ever struggled with a tidal wave of success-envy, consider the cautionary tale of Chad Le Cros. Who’s Chad Le Cros? Well, he was in the running to dethrone Michael Phelps back in the 2016 Summer Olympics.

Le Cros felt it was his turn for glory and was focused on one thing only: what his opponent was doing.

While Chad attempted to intimidate his rival by shadowboxing  like Rocky on the sidelines, Michael Phelps was “in the zone,” mentally preparing for greatness with the now-infamous #phelpsface expression.

When the buzzer sounded, Phelps stayed focused on his own race while Le Cros kept his eye on Phelps. It was a close race for all the swimmers, but in the end (spoiler), Michael Phelps slayed in his lane to take home the gold. Chad Le Cros came in 4th, losing precious seconds — and an Olympic medal — by turning his head to glance at his competitor in the next lane.

The moral of the story? You can't keep up the momentum to move forward if you’re continually side-eyeing the competition. Doing so will only leave you swimming in circles. You’ve got to keep your eyes on YOUR prize. 

In a sea of “Chads,” be a Phelps.

PS – Want more tips on slaying in your lane and avoiding the dreaded comparison trap? Keep an eye out for our new feature landing in your inbox soon.

Feeling Edgy?

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January 2022 Issue

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Picture it: New York City, 2012. It was this time of year (New Year’s) and I had just left my “Devil Wears Prada” career at Condé Nast BRIDES. I was there (comfortably) full-time for 13 years as the Photo Director, so to say I was freaking the eff out would be an understatement. I immediately went to yoga to calm my anxiety, capture my thoughts, and downward dog myself into some clarity. While upside down, a flurry of questions (and blood) rushed to my head:

“I’m in New York City, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of, with tons of other entrepreneurs just like me. So...what do I have that others don’t?”

As I moved to Warrior two, I started to critique my thoughts. I realized I’d been making an ass out of myself, assuming that everyone knew what I knew...but they didn’t.

Full Disclosure: it was incredibly easy for me to pass judgment on the branding and marketing efforts that flew across my desk (and into the recycling bin) from the safety of a corporate tower. But now that I was on the other side of the desk, the harsh realities of business ownership had hit me: there’s no walk-in supply closet of padded envelopes or an assistant to go grab you one (you have to spend half your day going to Staples.) There is no IT or accounting department; you are all the departments! That being the case, most business owners don’t have time to eat lunch, let alone become masters at communicating their brand message. Which made me think:

“Wait a minute - I've been developing consumer content and implementing strategies at a top media company for over a decade. I have a Fine Arts education in photography and fashion from two prestigious colleges, and I've professionally been in the wedding industry since (cough) 1998.”

Along with this not so humble-brag (and 🙌🏻 to Nars concealer) came the moment of clarity I was searching for. My unique combination of expertise and experience in the industry is my specialty. That's what differentiates me from the rest of the noise. Plus, I nerd out on educating others with my diverse range of knowledge. I am going to empower like-minded entrepreneurs to sharpen their brand strategy and give them the "edge." Thus, Editor’s Edge was born in yoga class that day (ironically, I was also on my back and super sweaty.)

Now, I didn’t create Editor’s Edge, and *boom* it is where it's at now. Like any business, over the past 8 years, it’s shifted, grown, and plateaued. I'll admit it went on the side-burner a few times when I veered back into my old life with gigs at The Knot or Martha Stewart Weddings or became overwhelmed with my previous photography business (#RIP - KDP Photography.) In 2017, I took the nerve-wracking leap to solely concentrate on Editor's Edge. During this panic-inducing process, I focused on capturing what Editor's Edge truly was and critiqued how to evolve it, which led to my next flash of clarity.

Yes, the insights I was providing clients gave them "the edge," but they were also all on the “edge of something big.” Whether that’s transforming their business to a recognizable brand, attracting their next level of (lucrative) clientele, or fine-tuning to keep their spot on top, each client required a map and a trusted (sometimes sassy) guide to lead them over their edge. It was this “a-ha” moment of clarity that expanded Editor’s Edge into what it is today–

A boutique creative agency specializing in elevated brand strategy, creative direction, and content creation for established businesses.

Editor's Edge goes below the surface to capture your specific purpose and beyond the obvious critique of your content to deliver clarity that empowers your brand's growth. (AKA, I don't simply tell you what's not working, I guide you on how to fix it to lead to your own "a-ha" moments!) My purpose is to discover, target, and translate what makes each client unique. With this clarity, we strategize and outline a blueprint to a strong brand that is genuine to them because truth be told, there is a lot of sameness in the industry right now.

Let's be real; being a business owner can be a love/hate relationship, but it also evokes a feeling I’d never achieve from my corporate tower. Especially when I repeatedly see determined clients reach the success we’ve worked for and welcome them back to take it to their next edge.

Not to get all Carrie Bradshaw (circa 1999), but clarity creates purpose...and purpose fuels passion. So as long as there’s a community of like-minded business owners willing to put in the work - then I’ll be here as a sassy guide, whipping out jazz hands, equipping you with sharp content, and leading you to the clarity that pushes you over whatever edge you’re on.

PS – The upcoming feature is easily one of our most enlightening content pieces yet, as we walk you through the same Capture, Critique, Clarity process I do with clients in our Deep Dive consultation. However, if you want the crystal-clear Clarity you’d get from the full-frontal experience, schedule a complimentary consult, and we’ll dive right in!

Never Fear, Panic is Here.

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October 2021 Issue

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You know that part of a horror movie when you hear the slow chill-inducing creeeeak of an opening door? No one is quite sure what's coming next, then BOOM! Things start gettin' crazy, and everyone freaks the eff out. Well, that is what October feels like to me, and I’m suspecting for a lot of you, too.

One minute we’re all having a lovely summer at the lake house, and next thing we know, it’s mother-jumping October – the start of Q4 and almost the end of the year! We start becoming possessed by evil thoughts or question if our businesses were built on cursed burial grounds. They're heeeere, the undeniable sense of fear and panic.

Where does it come from? Why do we feel like this?

My guess is it stems from doubting previous choices, the uncertainty of the future, or the overwhelm of moving fast, but not necessarily forward. So, how does one keep their head from doing a full 360 to fight off fear and become a horror movie hero?

We have two options. We can say F– F*ck E–Everything A–And R– Run, or we can F– Face E–Everything A–And R– Rise (I wish I could take credit for that, but I saw it on a sidewalk chalkboard.)

Here's the thing, October shivers are signs that it’s time to consider changes, refocus, and start getting comfortable with the uncomfortable. Embrace your fear and use it to keep pushing forward.

Or, as I classily like to say; "You’re not growing as a person unless you put yourself in a situation where you want to 💩 and 🤮 at the same time!" So, go grab the nearest blunt object, jump out of hiding, and face the October fright like the vampire slayer I know you are!

PS – My inner teen spirit is trying to keep its cool as I prepare to head out to the birthplace of grunge! Join me and WIPA Seattle for a night of networking and knowledge at the new Lotte Hotel on November 16, 2021. I’ll be presenting “The Blueprint to a Stand-Out Brand,” an informative session on core values, unique selling points, target market, messaging, and style. Oh, and there may or may not be some flannel and Doc Martens packed in my suitcase!

PPS – Hey, you! Yeah, you - the one half-sitting at your scattered desk while notification bells never stop ringing on your phone. It's time to starve your distractions and feed your focus. How? DOWNLOAD our killer time blocking schedule and roster of batch tasking ideas to keep you on track. You'll be filled to the gills with focus in no time!

Cheat Sheet for Getting 💩 Done

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September 2021 Issue

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January may get all the hype, but September will always feel like the New Year to me. It's probably because teachers surround me; my father, sister, husband, and in-laws are all teachers (I like to consider myself an educator as well ...just swap out book bags for swag bags). Don't get me wrong, I had an interesting summer of further improving my work-life balance skills. (Read: Teacher husband and school-age children continuing to invade my home office area balanced with sipping cocktails, on the porch.) But, September is time to fold up the sun chair and for the “keep the boat afloat” mentality to transition to the “back to school” mindset (Read: Research, reevaluate and reorganize).

We all have high school memories, some good, some bad, and some most likely mortifying. When I look back, I am amazed at how organized and productive our days were. A class schedule, neon Trapper Keeper, and a ringing bell kept all of us (ok, most of us) in line for fear of detention. Now we half-sit at our scattered desks while notification bells never stop ringing on our phones. Instead of focusing on a single subject, our concentration is pulled in a million different directions. We hop from our virtual spin class to emailing clients to posting a poll on Instagram Stories all within the same 45-minute period.

As I get my 🍑 back to in-person class this semester, I took a page from my teacher squad’s book by creating a syllabus to success (Read: Kickin’ it old school with a killer time blocking schedule and a smart-a** roster of batch tasking courses to fill it in with). Let us not forget what was once called Algebra - we now call balancing our QuickBooks.

I know running all aspects of a business (especially marketing yourself) can feel just as mortifying as high school. I also know you're an A+ student with a gold star drive, so I’m gonna be that cool chick in class and let you copy from my notebook.

Break the ice with our pop quiz to download my kickass Class Schedule with Course Roster - you'll be "Rollin with the Homies” to the head of the class in no time. Cher Horowitz would be so proud!

PS – We’d like to welcome all our new industry friends to the cool kids' lunch table, where we’re serving up fresh insights and hot tips to sharpen your brand and elevate your business up a level…or three. 😎 If your schedule is full and you need to drop this, you can click the unsubscribe link below…but don’t come crying to us when the FOMO kicks in!

Are you part of the "in-crowd?"

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July 2021 Issue

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A client recently expressed wanting to expand their network as a desire, “to be embraced by in the ‘in-crowd.’” Pre-pandemic they had attended high-end parties, networking events, and conferences with a laser focus on the one person they considered "the gatekeeper" to landing their coveted gig. “I’ve done my homework, my work is up to par, I’m in the right places at the right times, but I just can’t seem to win this person over. I feel like I’m in high school continually being turned down for the prom.”

The sentiment sounded all too familiar. Strangely similar to the plotline of an 80’s teen movie; the artistic but awkward main character just dreaming of being asked out by the richest guy at school. They wallow, they study the cool clique, and they finagle a deal to get closer to their obsession. In the end, there were always two outcomes. First, the fairy tale version where they go back to sewing pink dresses until, finally, their idol sweeps them off their feet. Or, the alternate version where their quirky best friend takes off their glasses, and they realize that what they wanted was in front of them the whole time, duh!

Continually tap dancing to a disengaged party of one is a waste of your energy - one person does not make an "in-crowd." Expanding your network means engaging...with everyone! The person ordering the same cocktail at the party, the one standing in the bathroom line with you at the conference, and definitely the one cracking up at all of your jokes during a networking dinner. They are the perfect prom dates.

It’s easy to get lost looking up at the one person you think can change your world. But sometimes, all you really need to do is look around, and you’ll realize your "in-crowd" is already there.

P.S. - Whether a black-tie gala or a coffee meet-up in your yoga pants, you’ll go from wallflower to blossoming rose with our “7 Tips to Slay Networking.”

Editor’s Note: Will you be at Engage!21 at The Breakers next week? Come find me for a high-five and kick-it over a cocktail!🍹

Knowledge to Know How

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April 2021 Issue

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A wise, big-haired woman once said: “Find out who you are and do it on purpose” (thanks, Dolly). She’s right – when we do things purposefully, intentionally, and with focus, great things will happen.

How do you get going with purpose? Well, to start, you can join Michelle Loretta and I at the upcoming Be Sage Intensive event later this month.

What’s the Be Sage Intensive, you ask? Don’t worry, this isn’t another vague online course, Zoom, or webinar of the same regurgitated content without instruction on how to feasibly make it work for your business (been there, done that).

Instead, the Be Sage Intensive is a unique, six-week immersive learning experience, where a carefully-curated panel of 14 experts in the industry guide you through a structured framework of actionable, hands-on activities and components that provide your business with a plan for execution. Little by little, you’re building a strategy. 

What do you stroll away with in the end? A tangible Marketing Plan custom designed for YOUR business in your hot little manicured hands! 💅

Each week focuses on different pieces of the Marketing Plan; I’m dropping knowledge and know how on Brand Strategy: Curating a Cohesive Brand. You know me, brand recognition and curating are kinda my thang; I’m going to be letting you in on my secrets to curating your Signature Images and walk you through my approach to Brand Style Guides. No experience required! 

Here’s the thing: Be Sage Intensive is not a course, it’s a community, so prepare yourself for tons of support, knowledge, and know how. Every week you come together with different experts to mastermind and share ideas and best practices for improving your marketing efforts: SEO, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, Networking, PR…we’ve got your covered!

Heads up: my mastermind is May 5th at 11:30am ET, what better way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo?! 🎉 Ready to know more? Check out the Be Sage Intensive website and register before April 19th!

PS – Pop in your ear buds while I pop my Clubhouse cherry on Tuesday, April 13th at 10am ET! Michelle Loretta and I will be chatting and taking questions on WEDDING PROS: Curating a Cohesive Brand. Join us!

PPS – Full disclosure, this LTFE contains an affiliate link; if you use that link to sign up, I may earn a small commission. Regardless, my shout-out is sincere with or without any returns.

Hindsight is 20/20

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January 2021 Issue

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You’ve heard me say it before; September will always feel like the New Year, as it's when we often get our 🍑 back to class.

Now that it’s the actual New Year, I use it as a time to clap out the erasers and wipe the slate clean (Yes, I’m aware that is a very dated “Little House on the Prairie”-esque reference).

In December, I challenged myself (and you) not to stare at the lists of items (projects, events, vacations) we didn’t get to do last year with resentment. I did my best to let go of previous expectations and accept that 2020 was a year like no other – and I also gave myself (and you) a (virtual) high-five for keeping my business successfully afloat another year.

So, when it came time for the holiday break, I successfully gave two 💩 about spending the week on my old couch in my new comfy pants with my tween-ager kids watching movies and drinking dirty martinis (For me, not them!).

I took that time to unplug, power down, and prepare myself to return in January, ready to reboot and power back up. (Tech Tip: this is also my genius solution for the various IT issues that frequently pop up for our work/school-from home family – you’re welcome!).

Did our problems miraculously disappear at midnight on December 31st? Abso-f*cking-lutely not! Are most of us still not where we want to be with (and within) our business? Yep. And that is okay.

My suggestion? Before going into your internal settings to hit the 2021 update button, scan back over your 2020 (shivers, I know). Raise the tough questions and consider the types of changes (major or minor) you want - and your business requires - to "dust its shoulders off and get ready to take on 2021."

Then, review your answers (and while the rainbow wheel spins), jot down what you feel you’re going to need to refocus your efforts to confidently tackle the year ahead.

I know how exciting (yet nerve-wracking!) change can be – I like to call it the puke and poop moment (Classy, I know, but it’s true).

No one said it's easy to capture, critique, and clarify the essence of what makes your business unique to sharpen and elevate your brand’s positioning (that's what Editor's Edge is here for, my friend!).

If your focus is feeling a little foggy, we got you! The Editor’s Edge upcoming feature is sharing 5 insightful questions to empower you to rise up and raise a glass to refocusing in the New Year.

Hindsight is 20/20!

PS – Editor’s Edge is gearing up for a cozy winter, our busiest time of year. Wanna join the cool kids? Schedule your 30 min complimentary consult call now, before all our slots are full – don’t be frozen out!

How to say Adios to 2020

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December 2020 Issue

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Ob-la-di, ob-la-da, life goes on….lala, how the life goes on. Lennon and McCartney knew what they were doing when they wrote those words so long ago. It doesn’t matter what life throws at us these days; it’s just gonna keep on keeping on…especially in a year like 2020.

We’ve covered some solid ground this year, from walking back in time to the start of Editor's Edge to sharing my not-so-cool college experience where I learned the value of asking the hard questions and soliciting feedback. I supplied tips on surfing the storm by rocking a new routine together when 💩got real and the pandemic waved over all of us. We talked about stages of grief and important topics that made people uncomfortable (all the more reason to talk about them, don’t you think?) and ways to get back into the swing of things.

And just when I felt like putting the brakes on the Letter from the Editor series, you, my kick-ass readers, would thoughtfully reply back, saying it's one of the few emails you don't unsubscribe from. Like the Grinch, my heart grew three sizes bigger with each positive note you guys wrote back; please keep them coming!

Throughout 2020, I’ve shared and learned a lot as my life went on. As we head into December, I challenge us (you AND me) not to stare at all the lists of things we DIDN’T get to do this year (projects, events, vacations – sigh, remember travel?!) on our desks with resentment. How about we accept that this has been a year like no other, let go of all those expectations and previous resolutions that are holding us back? What if we stopped blaming the universe (and beating ourselves up) and instead took satisfaction in keeping our business afloat another year – especially this year?!

Let’s sprinkle a little holiday magic, give ourselves a much-needed high five, and change our perspective for the remainder of 2020. Let’s reframe December as the on-deck circle, the green room… the staging area for 2021!

Yes, we will still face challenges in the new year, and no, our problems will not miraculously disappear at midnight, but we can (Clorox) wipe the slate clean and prepare to mentally pick ourselves back up again to come out swinging.

Here’s the deal: most of us aren’t where we want to be with (and within) our business (or our waistlines!) – and that’s okay. So, how are we going to make this magic happen?

First, stop the pity party and get 👏off 👏social 👏media, have a festive drink (or two) and safely restore your spirit with family and friends on Zoom. Start by imagining what types of changes (major or minor) you want and your business needs moving forward.

We know how exciting (and nerve-wracking) change can be – it’s tough to discover, target, and translate what makes your business unique to sharpen and elevate your brand’s message.

If your vision is feeling a little foggy, don’t panic! I’ve got a lime La Croix for you and will escort you to the main stage. Together we’ll prepare your 2021 "dust your shoulders off" list, clearing the runway towards your great, big, beautiful tomorrow!

PS – Editor’s Edge is setting the stage for winter, our busiest time of year! If you’re interested in joining our cast of clients in 2021, schedule your 30 min complimentary consult call now, before seats are sold out.

Time Block Like a Boss!

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September 2020 Issue

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January may get all the hype, but September will always feel like the New Year to me. It's probably because teachers surround me; my father, sister, husband, and in-laws are all teachers. (I like to consider myself an educator as well ...just swap out book bags for swag bags.) Don't get me wrong, I had an interesting summer of further improving my work-life balance skills. (Read: Teacher husband and school-age children continuing to invade my home office balanced with sipping cocktails, from a safe distance, on the porch.) But, September is time to fold up the sun chair and for the “keep the boat afloat” mentality to transition to the “back to school” mindset. (Read: Research, reevaluate and reorganize.) 

We all have high school memories, some good, some bad, and some most likely mortifying.  When I look back, I am amazed at how organized and productive our days were. A class schedule, neon Trapper Keeper, and a ringing bell kept all of us (ok, most of us) in line for fear of detention. Now we half-sit at our scattered desks while notification bells never stop ringing on our phones. Instead of focusing on a single subject, our concentration is pulled in a million different directions. We hop from our virtual spin class to emailing clients to posting a poll on Instagram Stories all within the same 45-minute period. 

As I get my 🍑 back to (virtual) class this semester, I took a page from my teacher squad’s book by creating a syllabus to success. (Read: Kickin it old school with a killer time blocking schedule and a smart-a** roster of batch tasking courses to fill it in with.)  Let us not forget what was once called algebra - we now call balancing our QuickBooks. 

I know running all aspects of a business (especially marketing yourself) can feel just as mortifying as high school. I also know you're an A+ student with a gold star drive, so I’m gonna be that cool chick in class and let you copy from my notebook. 

Break the ice with our pop quiz to download my kickass Class Schedule with Course Roster - you'll be "Rollin with the Homies” to the head of the class in no time. Cher Horowitz would be so proud!

PS – We have the cliffs notes on how to embrace the skills from your pandemic pastimes to sharpen your business for the future! Check your inbox (and sadly, spam folders) for the Editor’s Edge monthly feature ringing in later this month.

Process At Your Own Pace

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June 2020 Issue

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On May 25th, I sat on my porch with my latest draft for the month’s Letter from the Editor. A reflective piece revolving around the concept of processing emotions and acceptance, it described how, even as the pandemic epicenter, New York City characteristically sped through the five stages of grief in less than three months.

Insert that light-hearted take on the classic Homer Simpson stages of grief clip, replaced with New Yawker-ese reactions:

1. Denial –“ Get outta here!”

2. Anger – “You gotta be kiddin’ me”?

3. Fear – “Holy 💩”

4. Bargaining – “Psst… Come ova here...”

5. Acceptance – “Fuggedaboutit!”

Writing that day, I explained how I refuse to use the term “new normal” and instead encourage “rock a new routine” as you reach acceptance. For some, this means puzzles, Peloton, or playing school with their kids, while for others, it’s doubling down on P.R. or pivoting business models. My message was simply that in order to move forward productively, you must give yourself some grace, and more importantly, resist the urge to silently judge colleagues, friends, and neighbors on their life situations and how they cope. We all need to process at our own pace.

With the short holiday week, time was limited, and the draft needed to be "Editor's Edge-ed,” so I took my own advice, gave myself some grace, and decided to hold the Letter till June. What difference would a week make? It turns out a week can make a world of difference…

On that same, May 25th day, I was unaware that a bird watcher in Central Park was being threatened and that a man in Minneapolis couldn’t breathe for 8 minutes and 46 seconds, leading to a horrific death that left us all breathless. 

As the news unfolded the next few days, I felt myself embark on a new cycle of grief. Denial – did that really happen? Anger – who the 🤬 could commit such acts?! Unlike the previous cycle of grief, we cannot isolate ourselves to rotate towards acceptance. The systemic racism strewn throughout our country is unacceptable. This must be a continuous effort in understanding and unity because Black Lives Matter.

Colleagues, friends, and neighbors; we must continue to do the hard work to pop our insular bubbles and break our algorithms to become exclusively inclusive.

Whether: 

public marching

private donations

signing petitions

social media shout-outs

reading to children about white privilege

unearthing buried history

examining tokenism in the media world and wedding industry

educating yourself on non vs. anti-racist behavior

supporting black owned businesses

or listening and learning

I urge not to silently judge because we all need to process at our own pace and productively move forward together. 

PS – In times of grief I turn to art to inform and inspire. Kara Walker, Lorna Simpson, Kerry James Marshall and Kehinde Wiley are just a few Black artists I recommend to research. 

Tips to Surf the Storm

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March 2020 Issue

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No doubt, we’re sailing through unchartered waters lately, and I’m so proud of our community for figuratively locking arms as we weather the first wave of this storm together 🙌 (social distancing, virtual high-five)! 

Yes, we're being tossed around underwater, saltwater shooting up our noses, sand scraping up our legs - but YOU are popping up, Little Mermaid style, showing clients just how nimble you are on your feet...or fins. (No evil sea-witch required.)

It's time to recreate a new sense of balance for ourselves, our families, our clients, and businesses to (sanely) stay afloat. Most everyone is currently adjusting to working from home, and many of our home-office pros now have some extra (and needy) "co-workers" cramping their style.

As we all scramble to restructure our daily lives in this alternate reality, I share some lessons learned when I transitioned from working in an office for ‘da man to working from home for this woman. 

Let's use these reminders to regain footing on our imaginary surfboards and ride the crashing waves of uncertainty together. 

MAKE YOUR BED & WASH THE DISHES

In times of overwhelm, little accomplishments go a long way! I love to sleep, so making my bed each morning creates a forcefield that stops me from creeping back to my pillow on those stormy days when life feels like too much. We don’t have a dishwasher. I know – shock, horror, wide-eyed emojis abound. What started as a sacrifice to live in NYC, now provides a calming sense of achievement as I hand-wash dishes while making coffee and listening to NPR each morning. (OK maybe not NPR at the moment…)

USE YOUR (FORMER) COMMUTE TIME FOR EXERCISE

Rejoice that your heart and mind no longer race with worry over being late for the weekly staff meeting. Trade your commute time for me-time movement. Get the oxygen flowing and the heart pumping to fuel creativity in your brain. I can’t even tell you how much creative content, for Editor’s Edge and our clients, is conceived via voice memos during my morning walks in the park. Additionally, make an effort to “commute home” with a short walk to transition your work brain to personal life brain.

GET DRESSED, EAT & HYDRATE

This may seem like a “no duh,” but it's surprisingly easy to get sucked into the nonstop work zone after innocently reading emails in your jammies over a cup of coffee. Whether it’s changing from snowflake-patterned flannels to Adidas athleisure, make the change and put on a real bra! Keep lunch prep simple and consistent by supporting your local restaurant with a take-out order big enough to portion throughout the week. (Indian works great for this!) Nuun electrolyte tabs have recently cured my afternoon caffeine craving and the accompanying headaches. (Note: Nuun also helps with the occasional dehydration one may feel on a Saturday morning 🍸)

KEEP A DEDICATED WORKSPACE, BUT BE WILLING TO MOVE

Right now, we all need an inspirational quote or two hanging at a home desk area. How and where you carve out that workspace is essential to productivity. While not having a dishwasher was one thing, the lack of space (read: office door) in NYC was a tough adaptation. Creative direction, design, and image curation all require the large screen in my office (aka: alcove in the kitchen.) For video chats, relocate to a space with natural light and a cleanish wall behind you. (Investing in a good red lipstick and some dry shampoo will also do wonders!) Having the ability to change your surroundings aids in efficiency, and is essential when your family busts through the “door” and you need to escape to the bedroom with your laptop!

BLOCK SCHEDULING & CLOSING UP SHOP

We’ve all seen the variety of quarantine kid schedules being posted, and you’ve heard me sing the praises of block scheduling, so I highly implore you to give it a try right now. My simple trick is having two small dry erase boards on my desk. On one, write the top 3-4 things you need to complete that day. On the other, write your work hours and fill in when you’ll complete each task. I like using dry erase because, you know, “the best-laid plans.” Obviously, there are finite hours in a day, so when working from home, it’s crucial to set boundaries. Yes, many of you are breaking the time boundary to quell the event postponement fires. Do your best to get back on track, establishing a time to shut the laptop, close up shop, and recharge outside with that "evening commute" walk.

The heart of our industry is celebrating the beauty in life's most significant moments, and together, we’ll continue to share our supportive hearts with our clients and each other. Of course, this isn't to say it’ll be smooth sailing from here on out. Some days will take more than we feel we can give. 

Remember, none of us can predict or stop the waves - we can only do our best to surf them. 

PS – We're gathering up our favorite tech tips to smoothly operate a virtual office and team in our upcoming Monthly Feature. Subscribe and come sail away with us.

Then the room went silent...

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March 2020 Issue

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It was my first day at the School of Visual Arts, and I was waiting for a class called "Third Year Critique" to begin. As I nervously looked around my new classroom, it dawned on me that one of these things was not like the other…and that “one thing” was me. The rest of my classmates held archival print boxes while I held a black pleather portfolio book. Their oversized boxes contained bodies of work, all surrounding a conceptual theme, mainly nude self-portraits.  

In stark contrast, mine was filled with individual “real-world assignments” with commercial concepts like “still-life fragrance.” At the Fashion Institute of Technology, my previous college, projects were handed to the professor, returned with a letter grade, and maybe a technical note to bring out the highlights. Needless to say, the concept of standing in front of a group of peers requesting feedback was entirely foreign to me.

With my back to the class, I pulled the prints from their plastic sleeves, tacked them to the wall, and babbled as I introduced myself as the new girl. Turning around to greet my new classmates, I was met with silence…like crickets-chirping complete silence.

I had no idea I was supposed to explain my work or ask my peers questions to prompt their advice. I just stood there with my heart pounding until the professor finally broke the tension with “…Thank you…we look forward to seeing your progression this year. Who’s next?”

Seriously, that’s it? Shouldn’t he have at least found something to say like, “You have nice composition, and might I suggest XYZ.” Gee, thanks guy, I’m SO glad I’m paying private school tuition for this! 

Listen, I got it. The room’s muteness spoke loudly - my old commercial work did not fit in this new fine-art marketplace. But there’s a big difference between criticism and critique. In the classes’ effort to be polite, à la “if you don’t have anything nice to say,” I was being robbed of the ability to course-correct and flourish.

Oh and you better bet I flourished, I was not going into college debt for anything! Next class, I walked in with the start of a body of work and a list of questions so long it nearly hit the floor. I shut my mouth, I listened, and I game-planned a strategy…I probably almost pooped my pants too, but I made it! I had conquered my first real constructive critique.

Putting yourself out there and asking for honesty from qualified peers whose opinion you respect remains a fundamental part of my business. Hell, it is my business!

Do you ever get fed up with the swirling questionings from your inner monologue? You know what you want to accomplish, but aren't quite sure of the strategy to get there?

Well, maybe it’s time to ask up and listen up so your business can level up - because feedback, my friends, is our friend.

PS: I don’t just talk the talk. I also walk the walk. So I’m putting Editor's Edge in the hot seat to ask for your feedback my, faithful friends. Please take five minutes to (honestly) answer six (anonymous) questions and support Editor’s Edges’ growth.

I'm clearly on the edge.

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January 2020 Issue

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Picture it! New York City, 2012. It was this time of year (New Year’s) and I just left my “Devil Wears Prada” career at Condé Nast BRIDES. I was there (comfortably) full-time for 13 years as the Photo Director, so to say I was freaking the eff out would be an understatement. I immediately went to yoga to calm my anxiety, capture my thoughts, and downward dog myself into some clarity. While upside down, a flurry of questions (and blood) rushed to my head: 

“I’m in New York City, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of, with tons of other entrepreneurs just like me. So...what do I have that others don’t?”

As I moved to Warrior two, I started to critique my thoughts. I realized I’d been making an ass out of myself assuming that everyone knew what I knew...but they didn’t. 

Full Disclosure: it was incredibly easy for me to pass judgment on the branding and marketing efforts that flew across my desk (and into the recycling bin) from the safety of a corporate tower. But now that I was on the other side of the desk, the harsh realities of business ownership had hit me; there’s no walk-in supply closet of padded envelopes, or an assistant to go grab you one (you have to spend half your day going to Staples.) There is no IT or accounting department, you are all the departments!  That being the case, most business owners don’t have time to eat lunch, let alone become masters at communicating their brand message. Which made me think:

“Wait a minute - I've been developing consumer content and implementing strategies at the top media company for over a decade. I have a Fine Arts education in photography and fashion from two prestigious colleges, and I've professionally been in the wedding industry since (cough) 1998."

Along with this not so humble-brag (and 🙌🏻 to Nars concealer) came the moment of clarity I was searching for. My unique combination of expertise and experience in the industry is my specialty. That's what differentiates me from the rest of the noise. Plus, I nerd out on educating others with my diverse range of knowledge. I am going to empower like-minded entrepreneurs to sharpen their brand communications and give them the "edge." Thus, Editor’s Edge was born in yoga class that day  (ironically, I was also on my back and super sweaty.) 

Now, I didn’t create Editor’s Edge and *boom* it is where it's at now. Like any business, over the past 8 years, it’s shifted, grown, and plateaued.  I'll admit it went on the side-burner a few times when I veered back into my old life with gigs at The Knot or Martha Stewart Weddings or became overwhelmed with my previous photography business (#RIP - KDP Photography.) In 2017, I took the nerve-wracking leap to solely concentrate on Editor's Edge. During this panic-inducing process, I focused on capturing what Editor's Edge truly was and critiqued how to evolve it, which led to my next flash of clarity. 

Yes, the insights I was providing clients gave them "the edge," but they were also all on the “edge of something big.” Whether that’s: transforming their business to a recognizable brand, attracting their next level of (lucrative) clientele, or fine-tuning to keep their spot on top, each client required a map and a trusted (sometimes sassy) guide to lead them over their edge. It was this “a-ha” moment of clarity that expanded Editor’s Edge into what it is today– 

A boutique creative agency specializing in elevated brand development and marketing strategies for established businesses.

Editor's Edge goes below the surface to capture your specific purpose, and beyond the obvious critique of your content to deliver clarity that empowers your brand's growth.  (AKA, I don't just tell you what's wrong, I guide you on how to fix it to lead to your own "a-ha" moments!) My purpose is to discover, target, and translate what makes each client unique. With this clarity, we develop a (visual and verbal) brand and marketing strategy that is genuine to them. Because, truth be told, there is a lot of sameness in the industry right now.

Let's be real, being a business owner can be a love/hate relationship, but it also evokes a feeling I’d never achieve from my corporate tower.  Especially when I repeatedly see determined clients reach the success we’ve worked for, and welcome them back to take it to their next edge.

Not to get all Carrie Bradshaw, but clarity creates purpose...and purpose fuels passion. So as long as there’s a community of like-minded business owners willing to put in the work - then I’ll be here as a sassy guide, whipping out jazz hands, and equipping you with sharp content and clarity that pushes you over whatever edge you’re on. 

PS – The upcoming feature is easily one of our most enlightening content pieces yet, as we walk you through the same Capture, Critique, Clarity process I do with clients in our Deep Dive consultation. However, if you want the crystal-clear Clarity you’d get from the full-frontal experience, schedule a complimentary consult and we’ll dive right in!   

Look Back to Look Forward

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December 2019 Issue

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It’s December…when the heck did that happen?! Our content feeds will soon be flooded with gift lists and New Year's resolutions. If the Netflix countdown clock is any indication, we live in a major “what’s-coming-next” society. As business owners, we’re incredibly guilty of this. Personally, I find myself anxiously looking forward, occasionally looking back, and mostly in limbo between what needs to happen in the next three hours to where do I want to be in the next three years. 

Back in college, I interned at the Museum of the City of New York (yes, my love for NYC is historically deep.) Way up on 101st street, the museum is right across from the Central Park Conservatory Garden, a rare place designated as a “quiet zone” in the city. This hidden gem, which still holds a special place in my heart, has a little pond filled with water lilies that I would rush to during my lunch break to slow down and reflect (reflecting pond, get it?). It was my senior year, and the only thing on my mind was, “What’s next?” (Spoiler: I peaced-out on a solo-backpacking trip around Europe before coming home to a full-time job at Condé Nast.) 

My seemingly mindless time at the little pond was time well spent. Taking a moment to reflect back on my achievements (and accidents) that year provided the insight and courage I needed to transition into young adulthood. 

Now, as an actual adult, time is the ultimate luxury. Who the hell can sit in front of a pond with a picture-perfect bullet journal...let alone take a lunch break?! We’re business owners catering to the end of the year asks from clients, over-packing for our next networking trip, all while searching up clever gifs for our Instagram stories.

Nevertheless, as the year wraps up, I challenge myself to take a breather and acknowledge the wins (and woes) of Editor's Edge in 2019 for next year to be built on. It'll be a combination of scribbling in my free swag bag journal, mumbling to myself on the subway (that’s normal in NYC), and mindlessly nodding while my kids debate what to watch on Disney+ – call me crazy, but this is how my sh*t gets done.

So stop scrolling through other peoples (fake) lives on social media, bust out the coffee (slip in some bourbon), and get your reflection on. 

Your business in 2020 will thank you! 


PS – Wanna elevate your weekly productivity? DOWNLOAD our time blocking schedule and roster of batch tasking ideas to keep you on track. It’ll keep you focused and full of holiday cheer!

Ugh, Decisions, Decisions

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November 2019 Issue

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Holy forking shirtballs, I’m Chidi.

What’s a Chidi? Chidi is a character from the show The Good Place that the kids and I have been binge-watching recently (highly recommend.) In case you’re wondering about the autocorrect fail, in the show, people in the Good Place (heaven) can’t curse (so I might as well start practicing now.)

Chidi’s biggest fault is that he can’t make decisions to save his life. Literally. In fact –– *SPOILER ALERT* ––his inability to make decisions is so cringe-worthy, he surprisingly ends up in the Bad Place. My kids will point to Chidi, start giggling, and say “Mom, that’s SO you!”

“What?! No it isn’t!” I’ll quip back...but as I shamefully glance at the “leaning tower of Zappos boxes” full of ankle booties I can’t decide if I want to keep, I realize they’re right. I am Chidi, and you might be, too.

I think the issue with the Chidi’s of the world (🙈) isn’t necessarily with the decision itself, but fixating on the what-ifs, or avoiding allll that comes with making the right one. Whatever the case may be, dodging decisions keeps us floating in purgatory, spinning like a top, and never really moving forward or backward. Until, of course, it sends us straight to the Bad Place.

So, how can we crawl back from the depths of H-E-double hockey sticks and face decisions (especially business ones) head-on?

I think our best bet is to approach each decision focusing on the possibilities –– not the problems. While it’s always a good idea to assess our choices (Reallocate? Refresh? Rebrand?) there’s a fine line between weighing the options and obsessing over the "what-ifs" bull-shirt.

It’s time we laser-focus on the best-case scenarios and fearlessly pick the path that’ll get us there. After all, every decision we’ve made has led us to this point, which means every decision to come, good or bad, will get us even closer to where we want to go!

If being stuck on business decisions will be your one-way ticket to the Bad Place, stay tuned for this month’s feature where we share 7 signs it’s time to take your business to the next level.


PS – Ready to nail your first decision? Up your weekly productivity by DOWNLOADING our time blocking schedule and roster of batch tasking ideas to keep you on track. You'll have more focus than you'll know what to forking do with!

Never Fear, Panic is Here.

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October 2019 Issue

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You know that part of a horror movie when you hear the slow, chill-inducing creeeeak of an opening door? No one is quite sure what's coming next, then BOOM! Things start gettin' crazy, and everyone freaks the eff out. Well, that is what October feels like to me, and I’m suspecting a lot of you.  

One minute we’re all having a beautiful, carefree summer at the lake house, and next thing we know, it’s mother-jumping October – the start of Q4 and almost the end of the year! We start becoming possessed by evil thoughts, or we question if our businesses were built on cursed burial grounds. They're heeeere, the undeniable sense of fear and panic. 

Where does it come from? Why do we feel like this? 

My guess is it stems from doubting previous choices, the uncertainty of the future,  or the overwhelm of moving fast, but not necessarily forward.   So, how does one keep their head from doing a full 360 to fight off fear and become a horror movie hero?  

We have two options. We can say F– F*ck E–Everything A–And R– Run, or we can F– Face E–Everything A–And R– Rise (I wish I could take credit for that, but I saw it on a sidewalk chalkboard.) 

Here's the thing, October shivers are signs that it’s time to consider changes, refocus, and start getting comfortable with the uncomfortable. Embrace your fear and use it to keep pushing forward. 

Or, as I classily like to say; "You’re not growing as a person unless you put yourself in a situation where you want to 💩 and 🤮 at the same time!"  So, go grab the nearest blunt object, jump out of hiding, and face the October fright like the vampire slayer I know you are!

PS – Hey, you! Yeah, you - the one half-sitting at your scattered desk while notification bells never stop ringing on your phone. It's time to starve your distractions and feed your focus. How? DOWNLOAD our killer time blocking schedule and roster of batch tasking ideas to keep you on track. You'll be filled to the gills with focus in no time!

School is Back in Session, B*tches!

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September 2019 Issue

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January may get all the hype, but September will always feel like the New Year to me. Probably because teachers surround me; my father, my sister, my husband and in-laws are all teachers. (I like to consider myself an educator as well...just swap out book bags for swag bags.) Don't get me wrong I had a great summer of improving my work-life balance skills.  (Read: Teacher husband and school-age children invading my home office balanced with sipping cocktails with my toes in the sand.) But, September is time to fold up the beach umbrella and for the "keep the boat afloat" mentality to transition to the "back to school" mindset.  (Read: Research, reevaluate and reorganize.)   

We all have high school memories; some good, some bad and some most likely mortifying. When I look back, I am amazed at how organized and productive our days were.  A class schedule, neon Trapper Keeper, and a ringing bell kept all of us (ok most of us) in line for fear of detention. Now we half-sit at our scattered desks while notification bells never stop ringing on our phones. Instead of focusing on a single subject, our concentration is pulled in a million different directions.  We hop from our gym class to emailing clients to posting a poll on Instagram Stories all within the same 45-minute period. 

As I get my 🍑 back to class this semester, I took a page from my teacher squad’s book by creating a syllabus to success. (Read: Kickin it old school with a killer time blocking schedule and a smart-ass roster of batch tasking courses to fill it in with)  Let us not forget what was once called algebra we now call balancing our QuickBooks. 

I know running all aspects of a business (especially marketing yourself) can feel just as mortifying as high school. I also know you're an A+ student with a gold star drive, so I’m gonna be that cool chick in class and let you copy from my notebook.

Pass your pop quiz and download my kickass Class Schedule and Course Roster that will have you “Rollin with the Homies” to the head of the class. Cher Horowitz would be so proud!

PS – We have the cliffs notes to help you cram for that final A with a list of timesaving hacks you can’t live without. Check your inbox (and sadly spam folders) for the Editor’s Edge monthly feature ringing in later this month.

Confessions of a Big Fish...

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July 2019 Issue

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The last few months, I’ve been on the receiving end of lots of whispers…confessions almost. “Psst, I have something to tell you…I feel a little guilty saying this, but I’m not interested in the luxury market, and I’m kind of okay with that. I like my clients, I like my local market, and I like not duking it out for that 1% unicorn gig everyone else is chasing.” My thoughts? “Good for you. Mo’ money, mo’ problems!”

Being content in your pond is not a sin. Believe me; it takes a lot of “Hail Marys” to build a business around the life you want to be living. It’s sinking into that sloth-like comfort when things become deadly. Settling, or merely shrugging your shoulders when your quaint marketplace starts getting infiltrated with newbies, will have you swimming with the fishes. Don’t forget, for some of those outsiders taking it to their next level may be your level!

There’s no shame in being the big fish – you worked hard to get to the place you love. But to maintain your bubble of bliss, continue to define, fine-tune, and challenge your goals (personally and professionally). 

Take it from my homegirl, Moana, “Happiness is right where you are!” 

PS – Are you following along with Editor’s Edge weekly Instagram Stories series, “Just the Tips Tuesday?” (Yes ,that was the title you all voted for!) Got something that makes you go hmmm? DM us on Instagram, and I’ll provide insights on your hard-hitting questions. (psst...questioners are always anonymous!)

Surviving Junesanity

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June 2019 Issue

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WORK/LIFE BALANCE

(noun):

1. The idea that one can manage personal responsibilities and also get work done without sacrificing one for the other.

2. A mythical concept that humans are trying to prove exists.

(see also: balancing act)

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If work/life balance exists, where can I find it? I’m attempting to solve that mystery, so I don’t spend the rest of the month somewhere between a state of “Junesanity” and a FOMO-induced slump. 

What is “Junesanity,” you ask? Well besides a compound word, June + Insanity = Junesanity, it's the working parent month of overwhelm (in the northeast); filled with the end of the year field trips, miscellaneous half days, and a plethora of school performances all requiring a specific colored t-shirt. (i.e., being forced to buy a brand new black t-shirt just to cut holes in said t-shirt so one can resemble a singing orphan 🙄) Junesanity is also the month clients like to wrap up or get started on new projects before the summer truly kicks in.

There has to be a way to fit in client calls, get my son a haircut before graduation, direct multiple creative projects, muster up the courage to record a witty Instagram story and plan a sans kid vacation in August to celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary without losing my mind, right…right? 

So how does one keep the personal life up to speed and the business in motion without sacrificing their sanity? It's all about being realistic with your workload. I know, we all want to think of ourselves as superheroes, swinging from one task to another; but it's all too easy for those hard-working, good intentions to turn to dust in a (Thanos sized) snap leaving us marveling at our own stupidity. So when I realize I have, once again, overestimated my human abilities, I lean on Heather Vickery’s insightful advice "to take a break, focus and give yourself a little grace."

After all, I may be able to do anything, but not everything!

Are you part of the "in-crowd?"

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May 2019 Issue

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A client recently expressed wanting to expand their network as a desire, “to be embraced by in the ‘in-crowd.’” They had attended high-end parties, networking events, and conferences with a laser focus on the one person they considered "the gatekeeper" to landing their coveted gig. “I’ve done my homework, my work is up to par, I’m in the right places at the right times, but I just can’t seem to win this person over. I feel like I’m in high school continually being turned down for the prom.”

The sentiment sounded all too familiar. Strangely similar to the plotline of an 80’s teen movie; the artistic but awkward main character just dreaming of being asked out by the richest guy at school. They wallow, they study the cool clique, and they finagle a deal to get closer to their obsession. In the end, there were always two outcomes. First, the fairy tale version where they go back sewing pink dresses until, finally, their idol sweeps them off their feet. Or, the alternate version where their quirky best friend takes off their glasses, and they realize that what they wanted was in front of them the whole time, duh!

Continually tap dancing to a disengaged party of one is a waste of your energy - one person does not make an "in-crowd." Expanding your network means engaging...with everyone! The person ordering the same cocktail at the party, the one standing in the bathroom line with you at the conference, and definitely the one cracking up at all of your jokes during a networking dinner.  They are the perfect prom dates. 

It’s easy to get lost looking up at the one person you think can change your world. But sometimes all you really need to do is look around, and you’ll realize your "in-crowd" is already there. 

P.S. – I often hear “yours are one of the few emails I actually read,” (blushing) so I spoke with Kimberly and Annie of This Week in Weddings to tell it like it is in the podcast: Emails That Keep People From Unsubscribing, if you know someone who wants to avoid snooze-letters altogether, pass along this month’s LFTE.  

Editor’s Note: You wouldn’t eat processed meat out of a can, right? So, don’t let valuable information go to spam.  Add kristi@editors-edge.com to your address book to get the monthly features we're bacon up for you.