Blending my passions for art, design and creative expression with the extensive business and entrepreneurial skills I gained in the corporate world, I transitioned my career to fill an unmet need in the marketplace.In 2009, I launched Pins & Needles – a sewing and creative boutique and studio with a mission to inspire sewers and DIYers of all ages and skill levels. In addition to offering a thoughtfully curated collection of fabric, sewing notions and other crafting supplies we specialized in sewing and creative classes, camps, lessons and birthday parties for kids ages 7 and older, all with an emphasis on skill building, community, creativity and fun.In response to the overwhelming customer demand, Pins & Needles expanded in 2014 to include a studio space with classes, workshops, and lessons.The store’s success led me to publish a book, Girls’ Guide to DIY Fashion: 5 Outfits to Design and Sew.The experience of starting and running my own business gave me hands-on exposure to all aspects of establishing a company (writing the business plan, securing startup funding, and more) as well as overseeing all operations, brand development, marketing, programming, buying, merchandising, team building, teaching and more.Highlights:* Pioneered first business of its kind combining a curated creative retail experience with complementary educational programming.* Named # 1 Kids Sewing Program by New York Magazine Best Of (2013) as well as editorial in Martha Stewart Living, Mollie Makes, Crain’s Business, New York Family and other craft/maker inspired and kid friendly blogs and websites.* Built business from inception and generated profit by year two with and continued growth year over year.* Doubled student enrollment within first year of expanding space (2014 - 2015) - increasing student registration from 50 students to over 100 a semester.* Fostered a relationship with JCrew and creating events at their flagship store as well as other influencers.

I charted and lead the fashion and lifestyle PR/Branding agency’s beauty business division. Worked directly with founder and CEO to grow the agency's client list and generate revenue. Directed and established media relationships, project management, event conception and execution as well as oversaw agency wide operations leading a 5 person account team.Highlights:* Secured $100K in beauty focused new business.* Maximizing the company’s visibility and brand through engaging communications and marketing.

I directed global communications for the designer fragrance portfolio and multiple beauty brand products of this leading luxury beauty and lifestyle brand. As liaison between L’Oreal and Ralph Lauren Corporate, I quickly built the trust of the senior executives.With a 3-member, US-based team and a global team in 12-15 markets, we achieved brand consistency worldwide by creating marketing communications collateral, tools, guidelines, and unique experiences for distribution to national and international markets. This resulted in successful launches and significantly increased media attention by generating a high volume of creative branding strategies and events.Helped orchestrate promotional activity for sponsorships, including Race to Deliver, Telluride Film Festival, and Tyson Beckford Polo Sport Media Tour.

Director, Global Communications/MediaPrada – Beauty DivisionI served as the corporate spokesperson and brand ambassador throughout the US, Europe, and Asia for Prada’s Beauty Division focused on new beauty initiatives, involving:Developing press releases for distribution to all major print and broadcast media through the US.Provided publicity for events: designing and producing PR guidelines for international markets, press kits, and promotions for special events.Collaborating closely with the executive team.Highlights:Playing a key role in a high profile, successful project to launch a revolutionary skincare brand globally while protecting brand integrity during the visual and creative process. Building a powerful international presence with global brand recognition through effective relationship building with the media in European and Asian markets.

During the company’s early growth, I worked closely with Bobbi Brown, as well as the Creative Director and cross-functional teams.I developed strong media relationships at top fashion and beauty publications and television producers, including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, The Today Show, and The New York Times. I also established strategic community partnerships; developed plans for events/launches; built collateral pieces and experiences; and created photo shoots and look books. Two highlights in this role included: collaborating with the media to organize briefings for the NY Fashion Show; and coordinating appearances for Bobbi Brown and the makeup team during NY Fashion Week.