Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Gaye Swan. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Gaye, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. f you needed to find a key partner or facility – how did you find them, what was the process of striking a deal like and what would you do differently knowing what you know now?

I began freelancing after my twins were born in 1995 — it was very different then. The “gig economy” still lay ahead. I found clients from former work contacts, which worked very well until I was ready to turn a part-time side hustle into a full-time job. I networked quite a bit, but I found a key partner in my own neighborhood, Shannon Briggs of Campfire Collective. The lesson here? Leave no stone unturned when looking for a client or a partner. Go to the next neighborhood ice cream social and tell people what you do!

When I began subcontracting for her, Shannon worked as “Shannon Little, PR/Social Media.” In 2022, I was a part of her rebranding into Campfire Collective. Less than a year later, we are an award-winning, eight-member team, but more than that, we are a close-knit group of fun-loving and creative professionals. Looking back, the process of signing on to subcontract with Shannon was easy. My advice here, especially if you are new to subcontracting, is to sign on with someone who knows what they are doing. I was not Shannon’s first subcontractor and she had streamlined the process. I asked plenty of questions about how she worked and got a full picture of what she expected from me. I started working with her because she offered a great opportunity to work with community-based organizations that in turn lift up their own community. I’ve continued to work for Campfire Collective because we’ve stayed true to that community-based vision. In Campfire Collective, I have found not only a client but a true partnership that has allowed me to grow as a writer.

Gaye, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

As I mentioned, I began freelance writing after my twins were born. Prior to the joys of motherhood, I worked in communications and marketing in the financial industry. My favorite part of my job was always creative writing. I loved developing fresh new ways to communicate an idea or product. My co-workers used to put yellow “caution” tape across my office door when I was in my writing zone! I’m never happier than when I’m writing well, and they jokingly wanted to warn others to stay away so I could finish.

When my children were young, I wanted to stay home, at least for a while, and also wanted both a creative outlet and a way to make a little money to fund my shoe habit. Freelance writing fit the bill. I started slowly, taking a client or two from my former work contacts. It grew organically from there. I’m fortunate enough to have steady clients who offer me wonderful opportunities to write articles, websites, brochures, blogs, and email marketing. I enjoy working with clients that need a creative writer to promote, uplift, or celebrate an achievement, event, person, or organization.

It is always hard to be objective about myself, but I think what sets me apart is my ability to capture the tone and image a client wants to convey. If you need something whimsical and lighthearted, I can do that. If you want to be professional yet friendly, I can do that, too.

I’m most proud of the articles I’ve written that highlight and celebrate my community and the people that make it great. My brand is joyful — you will never catch me writing a hard-hitting expose. I’m also very happy that several of my interviewees have told me that my interviews are painless. They feel like they are talking to a new friend. I love that!

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Whenever I tell someone I’m a writer, the response I most often get is a variation of “Wow, that is so cool/fun/amazing!” And I always say, “Yes, it is — sometimes.” I think about the hours I sit staring at my computer, knowing I have to get 500 words written by the end of the day. And not just any words. Oh, no! They must be clever, engaging, and interesting words.

Many people may not understand that writing is work just like anything else. And that’s ok! I don’t understand how accounting works. We all have our gifts and passions. Once you discover yours, lean in. Practice it. Write for fun; write for yourself. Ask for help when you need it.

Some will ask immediately if I’m writing a book; they aren’t aware that writing is a career in other ways. I’m happy to explain that I write magazine articles, blogs, newsletters, press releases, and marketing materials. The world is full of wonderful ways to write — you just have to look for them!

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

It may sound trite, but I get such a charge when I craft a really good sentence. And I’m floating on air when I realize I’ve written a beautifully-worded paragraph.

Aside from getting to unleash my creativity, I truly appreciate the flexibility and freedom freelance writing affords me. I can set my own hours, travel, and spend time with my family. Working for yourself requires discipline and diligence, but the rewards make it worthwhile.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.gayeswan.com/
• Instagram: @gayeswan
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gaye.g.swan
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaye-swan-07732768/
• Other: http://www.buildacampfire.com
  https://styleblueprint.com/author/gaye-swan/

Image Credits
NLA Photography Emily Swan Photography