It is a delight to introduce Makeda Smith, President
and sole owner of Jazzmyne Public Relations. Who definitely knows her
business her client list expands far and wide with some of the top
names in the business. Smith has been instrumental in launching,
establishing and maintaining several highly visible publicity campaigns
over the years.
Let's
go back a little, you had a position as Associate Director of West
Coast Publicity at Hervey & Company, a public relations firm and
left with no savings or financial backing...what made you leave?
While
working at Hervey & Company, I found myself putting in long hours,
sometimes staying at the office until 11:00 at night. My oldest
daughter was about 3 years old at the time, and I remember thinking I
was going to miss her childhood. My father had run his own business for
years, and he always told us it was best to work for yourself. So I
figured it was about time to work hard for myself not somebody else.
What is Jazzmyne Productions?
Jazzmyne
Public Relations is a boutique style agency that specializes in
publicity within the realm of urban entertainment. I used to say in a
nutshell " We make you mo' famous !" That said, we coordinate media
exposure for our vast array of clients.
How much time and effort did it take?
Well,
I've been in business for 18 years now. When you work for yourself, you
pretty much work around the clock ... there is no such thing as 9 to 5.
Tell us about your services?
We angle and brand you within the media, and thereby the public at large.
As an entrepreneur has it been easy?
It has been hard work and still is - but its good hard work because you are in charge and control of your destiny.
How long have you been in the business?
Since 1988 officially, but I really started the company in 1887.
In print you have handled clients such as Print, L.A. Times, USA Today, Black Enterprise Magazine, People, Essence Magazine and Hollywood Reporter. What exactly does this process entail?
We don't really "handle" the print you mentioned below, but we do place clients in those media outlets.
What is your secret for maintaining staying power for over a decade?
My
secret is duo-fold, its about keeping the faith and at the same time
honoring those who came before you ( our ancestors) and making them
proud.
In one word can you describe yourself?
Other than Fabulous, … I'd say Blessed!
What advice would you offer to the next entrepreneur?
Work hard, work good, always be about your best. Putting forth your best will keep you in business a very long time.
I want to thank you so much, Makeda for taking time out of your very hectic schedule and for being a person of inspiration!
Thank you so much .... also folks can visit my website at www.jazzmynepr.com and thank you so much again !
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