Getting to Know Me
I believe that it's crucial to have an understanding of the person you're collaborating with. While my work may have come recommended, I think it's important for you to know more about me before considering hiring me. So, here's my story….
I’m from Campbeltown on the West Coast of Scotland and despite now living in Glasgow, I still consider it home. Growing up there was a great experience (the lyrics of Ed Sheeran's "Castle on the Hill" comes to mind.) However, playing in the Brass Band and family camping trips to southern Europe were my only real escapes to civilisation. At the age of 18, I moved to Glasgow to pursue a Marketing & Tourism Honors Degree at Strathclyde University, which marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life. Along the way, I embarked on an unconventional backpacking journey with my mum and also spent an incredible summer working in Banff, Canada.
My first ‘real’ job was in a maritime business in Glasgow. Although it was initially meant to be a temporary position, it turned out to be an amazing start to my career. In no time, I established the company's first marketing department and even hired an assistant. It was here that I set up my first social media accounts for the business and encouraged the team to embrace the new era of connectivity. It’s so strange to think of life before social media eh?!
During my time there, I delved into various roles within the business, gaining valuable insights and business skills such as project management. One of the standout experiences was when I was sent on a research mission to establish an office in Singapore. However, it was during this time that my plans took an unexpected turn when my twin daughters were born 3 and a half months early, altering the course of my life overnight.
Following a challenging four-month period in the hospital, I finally brought my baby girls home. For the next few years, I wholeheartedly dedicated myself to being a mother to my miracle babies. As nursery school loomed on the horizon, I began to yearn for the intellectual stimulation and fulfilment that work provides. I returned to my previous job on a freelance basis, assisting the team whenever they needed support. This continued throughout another pregnancy and the arrival of my beautiful daughter No 3. Then came the year 2020, and the world was rocked by the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Like many others, my world suddenly became smaller. I paused my work and assumed the role of a homeschooling parent to my incredibly bright seven-year-old twins. (Although it was probably more the other way around… this was their fridge word, not mine by the way!)
The pandemic posed unique challenges for everyone, but for autistic children like mine, the disruption to their routines was particularly difficult. Thankfully my 3 year old breezed through it. Setting up a side-line business on Etsy during lockdown called DigiGem Designs, gave me the creative outlet that I earned (my best selling poster is ‘Get The Tunes On’ by the way!)
What happened next? Determined to get back into the world of work, I upskilled and completed a Diploma in Digital Marketing. Along the way, I picked up a few small clients and gained invaluable knowledge and experience. I also started freelancing with a Glasgow-based Marketing Agency, where I contributed to various social media projects for a diverse range of clients, including a Clootie Dumpling brand, a Gin and Whisky Distillery, and well-known confectionery brands. As time went on, I acquired more clients, including a maritime charity based in Liverpool.
With my youngest daughter now attending school and thoroughly enjoying what I do, I craved for more. Until that point, all my freelance business had come through word-of-mouth referrals, and I lacked a distinct brand identity. This is when Gem Social Studio was born.
Never underestimate the power of seeking expert assistance. Having a fresh perspective can make all the difference and lighten your load. That's exactly what I did when I set up my own business, and I have my friend Jen at Toasty Type to thank for this. She is an exceptionally talented artist, marketer, and calligraphy expert.
Despite considering myself a creative individual, I found it challenging to define my brand style. After years of working anonymously, putting myself out there was undoubtedly intimidating. I had a couple of ideas in mind but decided to consult Jen, and I'm immensely grateful that I did. She skilfully crafted a brand that truly reflects who I am, it was so incredibly ME that it was staring me in the face the whole time.
Launching a new business often brings about feelings of impostor syndrome. However, when you have a reassuring voice that empowers you to embrace your unique qualities and shine brightly, it becomes easier to believe in yourself and have the confidence to pursue your dreams. That's precisely what the Gem Social Studio brand has done for me (thanks, Jen). Her expertise and eye for design were invaluable in creating a one-page brand guide that became the key to unlocking Gem Social Studio's brand style. I have been able to use this style consistently across my website, social media, and brand toolkit which includes templates and designs I’ve created for all areas of my business.
The next chapter of my journey is still waiting to be written, and I am eagerly anticipating the work that lies ahead.
Looking for some help with managing your social media? Let’s chat!
