do you need a writer?
Five years ago, if I’d been posing that question to anyone, I’d have been talking about what I can bring to a writing project. I’d have been referencing my three decades of experience (which feels like a big number when you write it down) across newspapers, magazines, digital editorial content and socials, and how that knowledge provides a foundation for any project, whether it’s copy for a website design or an editorial journal series.
But that simple question carries a different weight now, in the age of AI. Do you need a writer? I shared some thoughts on the blog back in June about the importance of finding your voice. I’d rather read someone’s real, imperfect, human words, and feel all the connections within, than scroll through something that’s polished but not particularly engaging. I noticed a comment on Instagram about this recently, specifically relating to people using AI for their emails, saying: ‘If you can’t be bothered taking the time to write me an email, why should I take the time to read yours?’
And that summed up a lot of how I feel about writing at the moment, whether it’s a journal or blog entry or website copy: if you don’t create content in a way that feels human, that feels like there’s someone (yes, an actual human being) behind it with a purpose and a story to tell, why expect someone else to devote their time to reading it?
Which brings me back to the question: do you need a writer?
Because if you’d like someone to help tell your story, whether you're a brand with products to share or a creative who wants to showcase their work, perhaps this is the right place for you.
are we a good fit?
This feels like a big question to put out there, but let’s see if my experience fits with what you’re looking for.
design, handcrafted and creative
Most of my journalist career was spent writing about architecture and interior design projects – from the perspective of the people behind each project. I’m not your ‘share your 5 top trends’ writer. I’m interested in sustainability and in design that’s grounded in an awareness of its environmental impact. And I like telling people’s stories around design, from products to spaces and buildings.
property
As a journalist, writing about property was a natural extension of writing about architecture and interiors. That design knowledge gave me a different approach when analysing and discussing properties for sale, and I worked for the property sections of two Scottish newspapers for a number of years.
art and photography
I’ve been very fortunate to write for a Scottish fine art photographer for a number of years. Taking photos is also my passion. If you’re an artist and/or photographer looking for a way to tell your story, this is something I’d love to help with.
ethical and vegan
I’ve been vegan for 25 years (and vegetarian for years before that, since my teens). This impacts on the things that I don’t write about, and also on the products and brands and stories that would fit very naturally. If you’re a vegan brand, come and say hello.
dogs
Maybe you have a product range and need some help with the words that can communicate exactly how good it is. Maybe you have a dog-friendly holiday home and are looking for someone who can write about interior design and dogs. Or perhaps you have a dog-related business and you’re contemplating a website refresh or newsletter. I can help.