Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Ivey.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Lauren. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Originally, I am from Washington, DC and moved to Atlanta, GA to attend college in 2010 at the illustrious Clark Atlanta University. Initially, I had no idea what I wanted to do. I tried different majors from Business Administration to Political Science but to me, nothing was a comfortable fit. One thing that I will forever salute CAU for is the resources it provided.
There were always seminars an events to promote career development. One day, I sat in on a panel that had a few publicists on it. As each woman shared what they do, I realized that this was something I definitely wanted to try. One thing about me, I’ve always had a love for entertainment and sports. More importantly, I strongly enjoyed assisting others to connect their brands to the world. Eventually, I changed my major to Mass Media Arts with a concentration in Public Relations. As soon as I started, I became more and more interested in my studies to the point where I was eager to get to class and learn. It was in this moment I knew that PR was exactly what I wanted to do.
Each year, I took on an internship to get more hand on experience as that is the best way for me to learn. I interned for various companies that catered to many different industries. I’ve worked along with the likes of many NBA players, multi-millionaire entrepreneurs, NFL players, music artists, actors, actresses, influencers, and more.
Once I graduated in 2015, like most people, I struggled to find permanent work in the Atlanta area. So, I took a leap of faith and started my own boutique PR agency, 1092 PR Consulting in 2016 along with my business partner, Nicole Floyd. As an entrepreneur, a business can have its highs and lows but it was by far the best decision I have ever made.
Along with building my brand, I still felt the need to continue to educate myself within Public Relations by getting a mentor with years of experience that could guide me in the direction I desired to be in. From here, I began to freelance for her along with other publicists in the Atlanta area to build my credibility.
Currently, I am continuing to build up my credibility and clientele as well as make my mark in such a fast pace industry like Public Relations.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
To be honest, it is never a smooth road when being an entrepreneur. You have to work twice as hard as someone with a 9-5 to make sure your business structure is ethical and effective. A lot of my struggles were to get people to understand exactly what I do and how my service can help. I had to really to research to see what strategies will work best for me.
The best advice I would give is to stay consistent. There is no right way of doing things. Try it all to see what works best for you! Second, never be afraid or too prideful to work for someone else. Knowledge is power. To be the best, work for the best to learn the ins and outs of what you do. Always try to be well rounded. Third, seek a mentor. We all need someone to stay on us when we begin to slip up. Always have someone in your corner to get advice from. Fourth, don’t believe everything you see on social media! People only post their best moments; don’t let the glitz and glam fool you! Next, I would say always keep any media contacts you have (women in PR). Building relationships are key in the media world. Last but not least, stay prayerful. What is meant for you will come. Never rush into anything. God has a plan for us all.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am a freelance publicist and co-founder of 1092 PR Consulting. We are a boutique style consulting agency specializing in traditional public relations campaigns, community relations, and event management. I think I am best known for my consistency. I don’t like to hear no, although I know there are times when I have to hear it.
I am most proud of the results that I provide for my clients and the fact that they are satisfied with all that I do for their businesses. I am definitely results-driven.
Which women have inspired you in your life?
There are soooo many women that have inspired me. First, my mom. This woman is one of my best friends. She is the hardest working woman I know and she will do anything to see me excel. I’ve witnessed her overcome so much and the fact that she continuously has a new idea or business venture shows me that if you want something, go for it!
Also, my mentor, CEO of LPS Consulting PR, LaTonya Story. Since the day I met her, she has provided me with so many gems about the PR world. She is determined to make sure that all of her clients get the best coverage and that’s exactly how I want to be. She works in sports and to see her succeed in such a male-dominated industry lets me know anything is possible.
There are so many more wonderful PR girls but that list for me could go on all day!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.1092PR.com
- Email: lauren@1092PR.com
- Instagram: @theoriginallolo
- Twitter: @Lo_ThePublicist
- Other: www.SportsPowerBrunch.com
Image Credit:
LaChell A Photography @lachell_a_photography
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