Today we’d like to introduce you to Avian Watson.
Hi Avian, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up, I had the unique privilege of accompanying my cousin, Marcus T. Paulk, to movie premieres, TV screenings, and exclusive events. Marcus, who was a series regular on Moesha playing Myles, Brandy’s younger brother, had a life that often brought us into the heart of Hollywood’s glitz and glam. We had car services for events, and as long as I made sure Marcus walked the red carpet, answered questions from the media, enjoyed the event and screenings and safely returned to our car service, my aunt—his mother—trusted me to accompany him without her.
When I got my driver’s license, my role expanded. I became Marcus’s go-to person for auditions, errands, and different request he had, always figuring out how to make things happen. I’ll never forget the time I was 14 and made a call to a local radio station because Marcus wanted to attend a concert. My call earned us floor seats, backstage passes, and more, teaching me early on the power of knowing how to connect people and create opportunities.
As I moved on to college in New Orleans, Marcus would visit, and I’d get him into the city’s most exclusive parties, just by making a simple call to the venues and leveraging his name. It was during these years that I began to realize my aunt had unknowingly given me invaluable hands-on experience in talent handling, from managing logistics to ensuring my cousin always appeared in the best light.
After experiencing the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, I relocated to Atlanta, where I took my passion for publicity a step further. I interned at one of the most renowned publicity agencies for a year, soaking up as much knowledge as I could. That internship led to my first major publicity campaign for the Oprah Winfrey Network, which was a turning point in my career. What started as a childhood experience handling my cousin’s talent and public image had turned into a professional passion for shaping and managing public narratives.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road to success hasn’t been smooth. As an independent publicist, I’ve always had to stay on top of current events and trends, and never shy away from taking risks. The reality of working for myself means learning to navigate constant challenges—such as securing timely payments for my monthly retainer, dealing with clients who expect more than they’re willing to give, and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of publicity.
The entertainment industry, in particular, has its own set of hurdles. The pandemic, followed by the actors and writers strike, hit me hard, as it did many in the industry. These challenges forced me to reimagine my approach to publicity, adapt to an unpredictable economy, and find new ways to thrive as a small business owner. There were times when it felt like the world was shifting around me, but I learned how to evolve—finding creative solutions, adjusting my strategy, and ensuring that my clients still received the best possible service despite the obstacles.
Through it all, I’ve realized that success is not just about smooth sailing; it’s about resilience, innovation, and constantly pushing forward even when the odds seem stacked against you.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about AvianPR?
With over 15 years of experience in the entertainment industry, I have had the privilege of working with some of the most recognized TV networks, A-list celebrities, and high-profile brands. My business is rooted in providing top-tier publicity services, specializing in entertainment publicity, media relations, and talent management. From crafting powerful brand narratives to securing high-impact media placements, my goal is to ensure that my clients—whether they are established celebrities or emerging talent—receive the visibility and exposure they deserve.
What sets my work apart is my ability to navigate the complex dynamics of entertainment media. Over the years, I’ve built trusted relationships with key players in television, film, and digital media, enabling me to secure prime opportunities for my clients, from interviews with top outlets to coveted red carpet appearances and high-profile event promotions. Whether it’s working with A-list talent to amplify their public image or managing campaigns for TV networks to maximize audience engagement, my approach is always tailored, strategic, and results-driven.
I’m most proud of the incredible work I’ve done as an independent Publicist. From securing exclusive interviews and cover stories to managing high-visibility events, I’ve had the privilege of amplifying the voices of some of the most notable figures in entertainment. My experience spans a wide array of genres, including reality TV, scripted television, film, and music. I’ve worked on campaigns for shows with major networks like Netflix, Disney, National Geographic, Bounce and OWN helping to generate buzz and increase viewership for some of the most anticipated programming in the industry.
What I want readers to know about my brand is that my reputation is built on a track record of delivering results at the highest level of entertainment publicity. I specialize in creating dynamic and innovative PR strategies that not only elevate the profiles of my clients but also help shape their long-term careers. From red carpet strategy to media training and crisis management, my offerings are designed to provide comprehensive support for those in the entertainment industry who want to maintain their spotlight and grow their brand.
Above all, my passion for working in entertainment drives my stance and I’m committed to ensuring that my clients’ stories are told in the most compelling and impactful ways possible.
What matters most to you?
What matters most to me has evolved as I’ve grown in this industry, but at the core, it’s always been about inspiring others and leaving a lasting impact. I want my legacy to serve as a beacon for those who may feel lost or unsure about how to turn their dreams into reality. I want people, especially women, to look at my story and see that thriving is possible—even if the road isn’t always clear at the start.
I’m passionate about showing women that we don’t always have to play the underdog. We deserve to be valued, respected, and compensated fairly for our time, talents, and expertise. I want to challenge the narrative that we have to work harder for less, and instead, inspire women to take ownership of their careers, demand what they’re worth, and break through the barriers that may have once held them back.
Above all, I want to demonstrate that loving what you do is not just about passion—it’s about consistency, perseverance, and unwavering dedication. In this industry, success is a long-term commitment, and it’s my goal to show others what it looks like to stay consistent in the face of challenges, pursue your purpose with integrity, and, most importantly, never give up on your dreams.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avianpr/
- Twitter: https://x.com/avianpr
Image Credits
FreddyO Photo Credit
