An Interview with Michele Marie PR
Please tell us a little bit about Michele Marie PR and what makes you different as an agency?
Michele Marie PR was founded in 2008 by Jill McDermott and Sara Andreasson. We are a team of 50 full time employees and about 20 interns – all female 😊. What differentiates us from other agencies is of course results but more than anything, our company culture- we hire NICE people and work with NICE people- it sounds simple but, it makes a world of difference. Many of our employees (and clients) have been with us 5-10 years which says a lot about the environment we’ve created.
Have you noticed any changes to how you carry out campaigns since the start of the pandemic?
Absolutely – everything is virtual, which I think had some great benefits and we will continue in some capacity moving forward- especially with press previews and having editors from all over the country able to participate.
What advice would you give to young PR practitioners who want to get ahead in the PR industry?
Take the time to learn, there are no “free rides”- experience is key, listen and learn from your superiors. Take notes, attend industry events become savvy with all the software we use as an industry.
In the digital age, how do you develop and maintain relationships with journalists, now that people meet in person less often?
To be honest, editors have always preferred email. We of course spoil our contacts and will continue to do so safely, great meals, trips, concerts, spa appointments and of course clothing! 😊
Most fashion publications have or are switching to an affiliate marketing model. How does that affect your ability to promote fashion labels if these publications do not have commercial agreements with them?
Traditional earned media will always be an important part of our job. More and more of our clients are working with affiliate programs so this extra layer is providing more opportunities for our clients.
Which celebrities have you worked with in the past?
All of them 😊 The Hadids, The Biebers, The Bidens, The Carters, Jessica Alba, Keri Washington, Katie Holmes, Charlize Theron, Addison Rae, John Legend, Chrissy Teigen, Selena Gomez, Taylor Swift, The Weekend, most NBA players, Jessica Biel, Nina Dobrev, Sarah Jessica Parker, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, The Kardashians and Jenners, Jamie Chung, Amily Ratajkowski, Vanessa Hudgens, Yara Shahidi, Olivia Munn, Hilary Duff, Lily Collins, Ben Affleck, JLo and many, many, many more 😊
Do you envisage a day when fashion influencers are more important than fashion publications?
NO, I think they will both hold relevance as they target different ages and demos.
What are the best perks about working in lifestyle PR?
The fashion and travel. Jill and I have traveled the world meeting clients and attending events. Also, everyday is different.
If you had advice for your younger self about mistakes to avoid, what would they be?
Absorb as much as possible from your bosses and peers, ask questions, work events and… HAVE FUN!
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