ABOUT
Now.
I’m Alexandra (though many people call me Ally) and I am a freelance marketing consultant, content creator and proofreader.
I’ve worn a few hats throughout my career, but communication has always been at the heart of what I do. Whether it be through an email, marketing collateral, a website or a face-to-face meeting, communication is often the deal-breaker in winning and keeping business, and I am passionate about it. When time and budgets are pushed, or companies or individuals don't have the skills or inclination, marketing and self-promotion can often be malnourished. Whatever the reason, I can help.
I specialise in content generation, marketing consultancy (including social media management) and proofreading. My clients aren't industry-specific, and they vary in size and need. For me, it's not about what you do and how big your company is, it's about your story and how you tell it.
When I’m not working, I can often be found on a muddy walk or run, deliberating over my favourite brunch options and picking up litter — I can’t stand the stuff!
And then.
I started my career at a trade development agency delivering large-scale business events, providing business development services and working with governments (UK and China) to develop trade relations. I managed business delegations to China and events for Prime Ministers, Premiers and royalty. I was known as the person that would 'make it happen' — though I'm happy to admit that I was unable to see through one request of removing 'Dippy' the diplodocus from a business dinner at the Natural History Museum!
In 2009, I was appointed director of a growing communications agency. I designed and delivered a number of communication campaigns for companies looking to expand their business internationally, and I set the foundations for the company's own international growth.
In 2012, I wanted to make a change so I embarked on a personal venture: an online and pop-up fashion boutique called teastained Lil. The boutique sold timeless yet affordable fashion using inspired and creative approaches to shopping. I curated pop-up experiences in Shoreditch, Camden, Piccadilly, Kensington and Brent Cross and hosted many style events across London. The company won a small business award and was a finalist in Boxpark's 'best pop-up shop' competition. As a small business owner, I acted as a mentor for other fledgling businesses for The Guardian's business mentoring programme.
In 2019, I took some time out to raise my three children, which has allowed me to develop a very different set of skills in resourcefulness, diplomacy and micro management! Whilst based at home, I decided to develop my professional skill-set and qualified as a proofreader with The Publishing Training Centre.