Where are you based?

I'm currently based in New York City

What topics and places do you cover?

My primary focus is food and spirits, including a monthly cocktail column on Essence.com. Also, I'm an on-air travel and lifestyle expert where I highlight trending topics and products. 

What outlets do you usually pitch (and write for)?

Essence, Thrillist, Travel & Leisure 

Are you in-house or freelance (or both)?

I'm a full-time freelance writer.

What is your approach to press trips?

I'm open to a range of domestic and international press trips. Small group trips are preferred or individual trips. Some locations are more desirable to me than others, but I always have “pitch-ability” at the forefront. As a freelancer, press trips don't “pay” unless I sell a story to an outlet. So when a publicist reaches out with a press trip that has a specific focus (culinary, spirits, luxury, etc.) and maybe even a loose itinerary, I can gauge the pitchability.

What are your professional pet peeves?

Quick follow-ups: sending a pitch on Friday and then following up on a Monday is an absolute no-no. What update could I possibly provide in less than 72 hours, let alone 24 business hours? When a publicist has an extremely quick follow-up (for something that isn't timely), it usually lets me know they're not aware of how the editorial process works. 

Unrealistic demands: within the last two years, I have been approached with press trips that have absurd demands and even unethical practices. This includes requiring writers to “guarantee” a set amount of coverage (1 feature + 1 round-up mention) in a specific outlet or even setting a time limit for when coverage has to be produced (within four months post-trip or “a refund of any expenses made on your behalf will be requested”). 

Where would you like to return to?

Finland and Honolulu.

What's on your bucket list?

My 2024-2025 travel bucket list includes South Africa, Ghana, Thailand, Singapore, and Tokyo. For domestic locations, Detroit, Cleveland, Oakland, and Houston top the list.

What advice would you give your younger professional self?

Be flexible, but firm in your boundaries. 

How best should people contact you?

Dropping me an email is always the best, and only way, to get in touch with me. (Find it on my TravMedia profile here.) Emails can get lost in the mix and the busy travel season really throws my schedule off, so I'm always okay with someone sending a polite follow-up after a week or so.