Liz Anthony

Connect

http://www.mariposa-communications.com

http://www.twitter.com/MariposaComm

Education

University of Western Ontario – B.A. With Honors, Language & Literature

Liz Anthony got her start in-house at the corporate public relations department of a major American fashion brand, then switched into the fast-paced agency world, moving to a boutique firm specializing in fashion accessories. It was these two disparate PR experiences that came together to give Liz the know-how and confidence to set out on her own.

In early 2009, Liz founded Mariposa Communications with a desire to combine the intimate services of an in-house PR department with the wider range and offerings of the agency world. Today, she manages two employees and specializes in fashion accessory brands and designers, whether established or on the rise.

Be open to new experiences, but always go with what your instincts tell you.

How did you discover your current job?

Mariposa was created to offer the very best to similarly minded small and mighty talented design businesses. It was only after work doing in-house PR and working at a boutique agency that I was able to evaluate just what was key to offer to clients. Those experiences also taught me how to best maintain relationships with both designers and members of the media.

What responsibilities do you have in your role?

There is no typical day for me, which always keeps things interesting. I manage two fantastic staff members, communicate with interesting clients almost daily and maintain relationships with all types of members of the media from stylists and bloggers to editors.

What is it about your job that makes you feel it’s the right fit for you?

I really like interacting with people on a daily basis, whether it be via email, phone or in person. I like being ‘in the know’ so it’s great to get the inside scoop from editors and bloggers well ahead of drop and release dates. I’m also a maniac when it comes to lists and calendars, and because we’re planning so far in advance all the time, there is no way to avoid them!

What challenges keep you awake at night?

The funny thing is that often any larger-scale challenges we face (which are rare!) are often handled pretty seamlessly; it’s the sillier little things that keep me up at night. I think that no matter how long I do this, that always will be the case.

Is work/life balance ever a problem with you? If so, what is one no-fail tactic you use to create balance?

I think that today everyone has a hard time putting their smartphones down and leaving work in the office. I struggled with balance particularly in the beginning when I was working from home (a small apartment!) and was really trying to get the business off the ground, but it was all well worth it.

Was there ever a moment in your career where you’ve thought, “I made it!” What was it?

Moving to New York from Canada was really exciting because there are so many great opportunities and connections I make here every day. That being said, it’s also easy to realize that in New York there are tons of great professionals in this fiercely competitive field. I can never get too comfortable and always strive to be better.

What are some of the rules you live by?

Trust your gut and be open to new experiences, but always go with what your instincts tell you.

What qualities does it take for someone to be successful in your line of work? 

You have to be extremely organized, creative and professional.

What one piece of advice do you wish you could tell a 21-year-old version of yourself?

Use common sense, don’t overthink things or get unnecessarily stressed, remember that things take time, and nothing beats good old-fashioned hard work.