We had the good fortune of connecting with Alise Crittendon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alise, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
I have so many quotes that resonate with me but this one in particular stuck with me as a reminder of my worth. In October of 2020, I attended the Multicultural Talent Pipeline hosted by Publicis Groupe. During one of the sessions, Minda Harts, author and CEO of The Memo LLC, told us “You belong in every room, but not every room deserves you.” This was so important for me as a black woman to hear especially as I navigate the beginning of my career journey because it reminds me that I should always be aware of my value and honor it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Growing up, I expressed my creativity in a variety of ways including writing, visual art (painting, drawing, crafts, etc.), photography and more. All of these skills built upon each other and allowed me to become more of a creative director, a person who develops a vision and facilitates the process of turning this vision into reality. Last summer during quarantine, my sister and I created a handmade crochet business where she made novelty items, and I developed our brand through logos and color schemes, photography and social media.

I currently focus on copywriting, which includes developing the tone and voice of campaigns, brands, and digital materials. I was able to find this niche through a number of writing experiences such as writing a play, creating a blog, and writing magazine articles to name a few. Along this journey, I struggled with finding my authentic voice. I knew I could write well from feedback I received, but I needed to find what I felt most passionate writing about. While I am still developing this voice, I am confident that I want my writing to make people feel something. Whether it’s about social justice issues or a brand mission statement, I want my words to have a positive impact on people.

I want the world to know that I am dedicated to using my career in a creative industry to support marginalized communities, such as black people, the LGBTQ community, people with disabilities, and more. I believe that diversity is the most beautiful part of our society, and it’s frustrating that it isn’t reflected authentically in the media or in any industry at large. In addition, I value different cultures and ways of living, and I plan to travel and learn as much as I can about people who are different than me to aid in my personal development.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Because I live between two cities in Georgia, metro-Atlanta and Athens, I have favorite spots in both places! I love trying new restaurants and eating a variety of food, so brunch at The Place in Athens, Japanese BBQ at Gyu-Kaku in Atlanta, and dinner at Punta Cana in Athens are a must. I’m also a big fan of outdoor adventures, so going to Lake Herrick at UGA, Piedmont Park in Atlanta, or even hiking at Sweetwater park are fun ways to be connected with nature and your friends. In general, trying new things like going to farmer’s markets or festivals with small business vendors is really exciting to me because it broadens your horizons and perspectives on things.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I could not be where I am without all of the mentors I’ve gained throughout the years, and my on-campus organization Women in Media at UGA. Through this organization, I have made so many connections and relationships with my peers and professionals in the industry. I’d like to give the biggest shoutout to Jayda Hill for founding this organization and being the most supportive mentor, friend, and colleague I could ever have!

Website: http://www.alisecrittendon.com

Instagram: @alisedawn

Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/alisecrittendon

Twitter: @alisedawn

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