Ashley Mariano
Q What do you do?
“First and foremost, I’m a creative.”
I’m a seasoned writer and editor with almost a decade of experience. I help brands define their voice and messaging through copywriting. I also help shape the user experience with clear, concise and thoughtful words.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
I got my start as an in-house copywriter for global retail and apparel brands. I spent most of my years crafting stories for the iconic denim brand Levi’s—and my denim-filled closet attests to this. Most recently, I served as editor for the community-focused company By Way of Us—working on everything from strategic brand development to interviews with women entrepreneurs.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
My curiosity is what sets me apart from others. I’ve always been eager to learn. Even once a project is done, I want to know what went well and what didn’t to improve on future work.
Q What are you working on right now?
At the moment, I’m working on attracting new clients whose projects are challenging and inspiring.
Q What’s your style?
Authentic and engaging copy is at the center of my writing approach. I’m especially known for creating clear and concise messaging.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
I wish I could do more interviews and profiles. Everyone has a story to tell and I want to help them do just that.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
The job market because very few companies are hiring right now.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
Anybody want to score the internet to find new projects and clients for me?
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
I wish I told my younger self to stop comparing my journey to others. The lock screen on my phone says it all: “Own lane. Own race. Own pace.” I remind myself that everything will happen for me when it’s supposed to happen.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
Have you seen the film Stutz? I highly recommend it. In the poignant, vulnerable and insightful documentary, Jonah Hill and his therapist Phil Stutz explore the world of mental health like never before seen. I’d love to pick Stutz’ brain to learn more about his “tools for life.”
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I’m looking for part-time or full-time projects that are equally interesting and challenging. In addition to copywriting gigs, I’d love to work on brand development and strategy.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
I’m always looking to push the envelope creatively and I’d love to work for brands that want to do the same. Also, I’d love to work with more BIPOC and women-owned brands that are mission-driven.
Q What is your rate?
I charge hourly for copywriting. My rate fluctuates depending on the scale of a project.
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
I’m always looking to collaborate. Shoot me an email.
Q Who is a creative you admire?
There are too many to name! I surround myself with a host of BIPOC women creatives who I’m endlessly inspired by.
Most recently, I’ve been inspired by my previous boss Sarah Kim, founder of By Way of Us, and the women we’ve interviewed for the site such as Zarna Surti and Elise Peterson.
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
I practice ikebana. Feel free to ask me about it.
This member profile was originally published in January 2023.