Hello there!
I make a living by shaping words, but I make a life by consuming stories.
After earning my bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing at Pacific University, I knew I wanted to make a living reading books. Having worked as an accountant for ten years, I decided to merge my love of details with my love for books and opened my editorial business in 2019.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in English Literature and a minor in Creative Writing, I knew I wanted to work in the book world. I received my Editing certificate through the University of Chicago Graham School.
Before launching my editorial business in 2013, I worked at a literary consultancy as a writer and editor. I also worked as a content editor for a leading digital marketing agency.
I currently work for a traditional publisher in North Carolina as an editorial project manager. I also freelance as an editor, helping clients—independent authors, publishers, editorial agencies, and businesses—refine their work while remaining true to their stories and creative insights. Check out these FAQs for more info.
My Editorial Process
01
Sample edit + Quote
Before sending a quote for any editing project, I collaborate with potential clients and evaluate several pages of a manuscript to select the appropriate level of editing or proofreading needs.
My process varies, but I typically provide a complimentary sample edit of a few pages to supply authors or publishers with a page-per-hour estimate. The sample edit is a free-of-charge service to demonstrate my editing style and skills.
02
Begin Work
After the initial sample edit of the manuscript, I outline specific services that will enhance or improve the quality of the manuscript, depending on its needs and problem areas.
If a client agrees with my editing style and wishes to move forward with the proposal, I deliver a contract for the work. Once both parties have signed the contract and the manuscript files are delivered, I will begin the mapped out editorial work.
03
Deliver Project
Depending on the type of services needed, I include a detailed editorial letter or comprehensive analysis at the completion of the project, as well as a thorough style sheet for authors, publishers, and agencies.
An estimated 50 percent of payment is due at the start of the editing process. The balance is due at the completion of the project. Electronic submissions are always edited with Microsoft Word’s tracked changes feature.
My Editorial Journey
MY PHILOSOPHY
I truly enjoy playing a small part in unraveling redemptive and authentic words in other writers’ stories.
As Maya Angelou said, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you.”
My philosophy as an editor is to bring out the very best in a writer’s work, making it tighter, richer, and more approachable to readers.
I am committed to preserving a writer’s style and voice, helping clients refine their words or story elements so the manuscript clearly resonates with readers.
Maxwell Perkins, famous and beloved literary editor, said it best when reflecting on the profession with other editors:
An editor does not add to a book. At best he serves as a handmaiden to an author. Don’t ever get to feeling important about yourself, because an editor at most releases energy. A writer’s best work comes entirely from himself . . . because in the end an editor can only get as much out of an author as the author has in him.
CONTINUED EDUCATION
Aside from earning my Editing certificate at the University of Chicago Graham School, I am a contributing member of the Christian Proofreaders and Editors Network (Christian PEN) and a member of the Editorial Freelancers Association (EFA). Courses I’ve taken:
After earning my Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing at Pacific University, I’ve been
I’m a member of the Northwest Editors Guild and the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).
Basics of Proofreading, Editorial Freelancers Association