State of the Business Address: 18 Years, and I’m Still Standing

On the heels of National Small Business Week (May 5-11, 2019), which highlights the importance of entrepreneurs and small business owners across the country, it’s only fitting that I celebrate 18 years in business as a celebrity publicist, an entrepreneur and a woman-owned minority, micro-business owner! Just like the lyrics of the Elton John song: I’m still standing! (Yeah! Yeah! Yeah!)

It’s been 18 years of sweat and tears! I remember one of my mentors – that is, the late Pat Tobin — a giant figure in public relations — telling me: “If it was easy, everyone would do it!” And she was absolutely right about that. There’s been times of feast, and times of famine; but somehow I’ve managed to keep my head above water and stay afloat. I’m so lucky to do what I love, and get paid for it! I’ll admit it, I have a dream job. But as a celebrity publicist … with the benefits, come the burdens. I’ll tell you all about that in my book one day.

The month of May is particularly special to me because in May 2001, I landed in Los Angeles in pursuit of a more creative lifestyle – both personally and professionally. Gone are the corporate trappings — those golden handcuffs, linked to benefits like healthcare, a 401 (k) retirement plan and four weeks of vacation time as well as other incentives.

Oh how I miss those days! Yes, I gave it all up to be my own boss – i.e. “the boss of me” – and work in my pajamas! Now, my goal for 2019 is “leveling up” my business, so I can wear silk pajamas! I’ll keep you abreast of the strides I’m making! 🙂

Tomorrow, I’ll join a sisterhood of public relations professions like myself for a “Relax and Recharge Beauty Brunch” in Hollywood, hosted by Women In PR  — i.e. @WomenInPR1 on Instagram. During the event, I’ve been tapped to serve as a  panelist to discuss various topics  about the pr industry. My soror and stylist, Kassha Brown has advised me to wear power red; so, I’m selecting and styling my outfit as we speak. (UPDATE: You can see pictures of me in #PowerRed on Instagram.)

Also, as a part of my state of the business address, I wanted to share with you a column I wrote for Reel Urban News, titled “A Snapshot of Public Relations in the Digital Age,” offering commentary on how things have change in the industry over the years. It also includes a gallery of photos with me and other celebrities, whose presence has been so impactful to me and my career.

Welp! That’s that for now. That’s my short, but sweet state of the business address. xo

#BossLady #GirlBoss making #MoneyMoves! #PublicistduJour 🙂