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Melody Rowan
Senior Copywriter & Director of Content | E-commerce and SEO SpecialistPreferred skills to work with
All Skills
About
Hi there! I am an experienced Commerce Writer, Director of Content & Strategy, and Senior Copywriter with over 10 years of experience writing copy for websites, apps, blog posts, videos, emails, and social media.
My specialties include writing, editing, and managing commerce copy for digital outlets specializing in style, home décor, beauty, health, wellness, tech, and pets. I also have experience with managing (and uplifting!) content teams and freelance writers, managing editorial calendars, SEO, WordPress management and design, making content decisions based on data, creating brand guidelines, developing target personas, and working closely with sales teams to develop and implement revenue-generating content partnerships.
Key Highlights:
- Over 10 years of experience in startup, in-house, and agency settings, focusing on consumer-centric content.
- Proficient in developing brand stories, product descriptions, blog posts, and engaging scripts for videos, apps, and emails.
- Solid background in managing editorial calendars, SEO-friendly content creation, and overseeing brand partnerships with well-known companies such as lululemon, Chewy, and DSW.
- Owner and curator of an online earring and accessory boutique, adept at visual merchandising and social media marketing.
- Strong leadership skills, having successfully led small teams and content strategy on significant projects.
Services Offered:
- SEO and content strategy
- Copywriting and editing across diverse industries including fashion, health, beauty, and technology
- Social media and email marketing
- Content planning and developing brand guidelines
- Directing content creation initiatives
I thrive on collaboration and am dedicated to delivering high-quality content that resonates with target audiences. If you’re looking for a versatile and results-driven freelance writer to elevate your brand’s narrative, I would love to connect!
Experiences
As the owner and curator of Shop Melody Rose, an online boutique based in Austin, Texas, I am dedicated to providing a delightful shopping experience through a carefully curated selection of handmade earrings and accessories.
- Launched an online earring and accessory boutique, showcasing joyful handmade items sourced from talented makers I admire.
- Designed and managed the website using Shopify, ensuring a user-friendly interface and attractive design.
- Captured and edited product photos using Photoshop and various editing tools, enhancing the visual appeal of listings for website and social media promotion.
- Created compelling product pages and wrote engaging copy for each earring and accessory, focusing on unique selling points.
- Developed and executed marketing strategies, including social media campaigns featuring dynamic content such as Instagram Reels.
- Organized and conducted in-person pop-up events, coordinating all logistics from booth setup to customer engagement.
- Efficiently managed order fulfillment and inventory control to ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction.
As the Lead Copywriter and Director of Communications and PR at Row One Productions, a dynamic production company based in Austin, Texas, I play a pivotal role in crafting compelling narratives and strategic communication initiatives.
- Responsibilities include drafting and presenting video scripts to clients, with subsequent editing to secure stakeholder approvals.
- Collaborate closely with the CEO to submit entries for prestigious awards, successfully achieving recognition as a 2022 Webby Nominee and a 2024 Honoree.
- Edit pitch presentations and grant applications to ensure clarity and impact.
- Actively brainstorm fresh content opportunities aimed at attracting new business.
- Notably live-tweeted the 25th Anniversary event of "Office Space" for The Hollywood Reporter, enhancing audience engagement on social media.
- Developed key content pieces, contributing to the production of the 2022 Row One Productions sizzle reel, effectively showcasing our creative endeavors and client projects.
Mustache Melrose is a dynamic lifestyle brand that specializes in engaging content and commerce solutions. As the Editorial Director, Blogger, and Commerce Writer, I led editorial efforts to create compelling narratives that drive customer engagement and sales.
- Developed and implemented content strategies that aligned with brand goals and enhanced audience reach.
- Crafted high-quality blog posts and articles focusing on lifestyle topics, integrating SEO best practices to improve online visibility.
- Collaborated with the marketing team to launch successful promotional campaigns that increased website traffic and conversion rates.
- Oversaw the editorial calendar, ensuring timely production and publication of all content.
- Provided guidance and mentorship to junior writers, fostering a collaborative and creative team environment.
As a Freelance Writer for Austin.com, a popular local website focusing on lifestyle and culture in Austin, Texas, I contributed engaging articles highlighting the uniqueness of the city.
- Authored a variety of articles about local events, food, and attractions that resonated with the readership and increased user engagement.
- Sourced and curated high-quality images to accompany written content, enhancing the visual appeal of the articles.
- Collaborated with the editorial team to ensure timely publication, adhering to deadlines and content schedules.
- Monitored reader feedback and analytics to continuously improve content quality and audience connection.
As the Director of Content & Strategy at Blender Networks, I played a pivotal role in managing and developing content for multiple digital platforms. Blender Networks focuses on creating engaging and relevant content for a variety of shopping websites and blogs.
Key Responsibilities and Achievements:
- Managed content and design for eight shopping websites and seven blogs, specializing in diverse categories including home, fitness, health, pets, travel, beauty, fashion, and men’s style.
- Wrote, assigned, and edited SEO-friendly and engaging commerce content, contributing significant traffic growth and user engagement.
- Developed comprehensive brand and copy style guides, ensuring consistency across all platforms.
- Led and nurtured a creative team comprising a social media manager, freelance bloggers, influencer marketing manager, and a website manager, fostering collaboration and innovative content strategies.
- Collaborated with the sales team to devise revenue-generating content opportunities and partnerships with prominent brands such as lululemon and DSW.
- Spearheaded content brainstorming sessions and meticulously managed the editorial calendar to guarantee timely and on-brand content delivery.
- Implemented new organizational methods to streamline content management and deadlines, significantly enhancing team productivity.
- Adapted content strategies to reflect seasonal changes and advertising updates, ensuring relevancy and alignment with market trends.
At Drumroll, a creative agency in Austin, Texas, I served as a Copywriter from February 2016 to June 2017. In this role, I contributed to various high-profile campaigns and projects.
- Developed compelling video scripts for Microsoft Store's advertising efforts, showcasing my ability to craft engaging content for visual media.
- Acted as the script supervisor and talent director during video shoots, ensuring creative vision was brought to life effectively.
- Collaborated with designers to create a rich content library filled with innovative, fresh content that supported Capital One’s major events, including the Orange Bowl and March Madness campaigns.
- Produced promotional materials that contributed to the successful unveiling of Capital One Cafés, enhancing brand visibility and customer engagement.
As a Senior Copywriter and Marketing Manager at Green Dot Corporation, I played a crucial role in the development and launch of GoBank, an innovative banking app created by notable founders Sam Altman and Alok Deshpande. My responsibilities encompassed shaping the brand’s voice and ensuring all communications reflected the intended style and tone.
- Collaborated closely with the CEO and CMO to define the brand personality and develop messaging for the GoBank app and website.
- Authored compelling copy for various platforms, including the app, website, FAQs, customer service prompts, marketing emails, and social media.
- Spearheaded marketing initiatives in collaboration with partners such as Project Runway, Uber, Turbo Tax, and Barnes & Noble, successfully engaging diverse audiences.
- Oversaw the copywriting process, navigating legal, compliance, and stakeholder approvals to launch new app features and content seamlessly.
During my tenure, I consistently focused on enhancing customer experience through well-crafted communications while aligning marketing strategies with broader company objectives. This multifaceted role not only honed my copywriting and marketing skills but also deepened my understanding of compliance within the financial services industry.
As a Community Manager at Loopt, a social networking and discovery app, I played a pivotal role in establishing the brand's presence in new cities and engaging users. My responsibilities included:
- Enveloping the Loopt app into the heartbeat of three new cities by connecting with potential users at local events to sign them up for our newsletter.
- Interviewing local tastemakers and featuring them in our weekly newsletters, enhancing community engagement and local relevance.
- Managing the social media presence for each city, ensuring consistent and engaging communication.
This role allowed me to significantly contribute to user growth and community building.
At NBCUniversal, a leading media and entertainment company, I served as a Blogger & Editor from November 2010 to May 2011. In this role, I was responsible for creating engaging content that resonated with a diverse audience and contributed to the company's digital presence.
- Collaborated with various teams to develop and execute a content strategy aligned with brand goals.
- Wrote and edited a wide range of articles, ensuring high standards of quality and adherence to editorial guidelines.
- Conducted interviews and research to produce informative and entertaining stories.
- Utilized SEO best practices to optimize content and improve online visibility.
- Contributed to the growth of the blog's readership by implementing effective social media strategies.
As a Community Manager at Yelp.com, I played a crucial role in introducing the platform to Dallas as its first Community Manager. My responsibilities included establishing connections with local media, business owners, and prospective users to create awareness and drive engagement.
- Successfully launched marketing campaigns both online and in-person, resulting in a significant increase in contributor participation and tripling the online newsletter subscriber base.
- Developed and authored captivating weekly newsletters that achieved notably high open and click-through rates.
- Cultivated a thriving online community of reviewers, promoting active participation through nurturing strategies.
- Organized and coordinated monthly events, including venue booking, budget management, and logistics, fostering community engagement and enhancing Yelp's local footprint.
As a Public Relations Specialist at Rosen Group, a leading public relations agency, I played a pivotal role in generating media coverage and enhancing client visibility.
- Developed compelling pitches, press releases, and media alerts for esteemed clients, including Barnes & Noble, Radar Magazine, The Atlantic, Cooking Light, and The National Magazine Awards.
- Successfully secured interviews and features across various media platforms, including print, broadcast, and online.
- Organized and managed special events, overseeing invitation creation, RSVP lists, and media coordination to ensure impactful coverage and engagement.
As the City Editor at ENVY Magazine, I played a pivotal role in establishing the magazine as the leading guide for what’s cool in Dallas.
- Established the magazine as a go-to resource for local culture and trends.
- Authored thousands of comprehensive listings and features showcasing shops, salons, restaurants, and bars.
- Developed and maintained monthly editorial and event calendars to align with community happenings.
- Opened the office space and successfully hired, trained, and managed a dynamic team of interns, writers, and photographers.
- Collaborated closely with the Art Director to design and layout visually appealing pages.
- Assisted the sales team in targeting and securing advertising opportunities.
- Acted as the primary point of contact for media inquiries and client relations.
- Represented the magazine at various local events, boosting its visibility and engagement.
Education
The SEO Certification from HubSpot is a comprehensive program designed to equip participants with the core principles of search engine optimization. Throughout this program, learners will explore key concepts such as keyword research, on-page optimization, and link building strategies. The curriculum includes practical projects that allow participants to apply what they learn in real-world scenarios, ensuring they can effectively enhance website visibility and drive organic traffic. This certification is recognized in the industry and is essential for professionals seeking to strengthen their SEO skills and advance their careers in digital marketing.
Completed the course 'Creating a Communications Strategy' on LinkedIn Learning, focusing on developing effective communication plans that align with organizational goals. The course includes practical exercises and case studies to enhance strategic thinking in communications, equipping learners with tools to assess target audiences, craft messages, and select appropriate communication channels. For further details, you can access the course certificate here.
The Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism with a focus on Public Relations from the University of North Texas provided a robust foundation in effective communication and content creation. During the program, I honed skills in marketing, brand development, public relations, and journalism, coupled with hands-on experience in project management and content strategy. I engaged in various extracurricular activities, including being a member of Alpha Lamda Delta and Phi Eta Sigma, which enriched my leadership capabilities and teamwork skills. This education facilitated my ability to creatively strategize, manage deadlines, and lead content initiatives across multiple platforms.
Pursuing a Social Media Marketing course through LinkedIn from August 2024. This program focuses on equipping students with the essential skills and strategies needed to effectively promote products and brands via social media platforms. Participants will delve into the nuances of social media advertising, content creation, community management, and analytics. As part of the course requirements, students are encouraged to engage in real-world projects that enhance their practical understanding of social media dynamics. This educational endeavor aims to prepare participants for the competitive landscape of digital marketing and elevate their capabilities in leveraging social media channels for business growth.