Why I ♥ PR today

Today's post brought to you by a little dose of optimism. Some days, PR is thankless. Stories are hard to place, clients ignore advice, and projects aren't always fun. But other days, PR is utterly gratifying. Want to know what makes me love it? (hint: I'm going to tell you either way).

1. The rush I get when I hear a reporter tell me, "Yes I am working on that story. Feel free to send me other stories in the future." (As opposed to, "No I didn't see the release. It's probably not something I'll cover.")
2. Discovering the perfect synonym for an over-used word in a press release.
3. The innocent excitement from working on a fun proposal when, in my mind, everything is possible and the client could be ours.

Thank you, small victories. I hope I speak for many PR folk when I say you keep us going.

Welcome to Sacramento, In-laws-to-be!

This weekend, my parents-in-law-to-be are visiting Northern California for the first time. I'm so excited! I take great pride in hosting visitors, especially when it's the first time they're seeing my hometown. I want them to feel welcome, to get a feel for the local flavor, and to leave with a warm memory of the place and the people.

The amazing in-laws! (almost)

On this weekend's agenda, my fiance (Jason) and I, along with my parents, will take Jason's parents to Berghold Estate Vineyards. This winery is a true hidden treasure and, more importantly, it's the site of our wedding reception. We'll also take them to check out Zocalo, which is the front-runner for our rehearsal dinner. California's Mexican food restaurants are a huge selling point! Hopefully we can pop over to the Napa-Sonoma region for wine tasting, too.


Here are a few ways I try to make a trip memorable:

Identify a local gem. This is important. Pick a place that is special to you or your city and share it. The Crocker Art Museum is one that I think they should see because it really represents Sacramento's growth and development and of course, it's art scene.

Leave some room for downtime and good company. Why do people visit? To see people they love. I try to work in some downtime so that the whole visit isn't a blur of car trips, sightseeing and busy-ness. Have some good laughs and relaxing conversations at home.

Promise a good meal and a great bottle of wine. There's nothing worse than the food coma that comes with eating three meals a day multiple days at restaurants. Of course, dining out is a delight. But too many meals out makes people feel calorie-laden, full and missing homemade food. Thanks to my mom, the family will be treated to homemade vegetable soup tomorrow. Always offer a dinner "in" and a great bottle of wine (or two!) to allow guests a break from the dining parade.

What are some other special rituals people have for hosting visitors?

The Final Re-launch

Here's the thing about blogging in my life. It's usually a failed attempt. February 14, 2011 marks the third time I have tried to launch this blog. The first time I quit blogging because I read my posts and thought, "Gawd Jessica, can you be anymore boring?" The posts were trying way too hard to be deep.

The second time I quit blogging was after a few posts during my year in DC (2009-2010). I was supposed to chronicle my East Coast adventure, but got way too wrapped up in grad school and just didn't have time. Plus, my posts lacked purpose.

Alas, a new job and another year later, I'm trying again. Perhaps it's because some of my cool coworkers have cool blogs, and I want to join their club. Perhaps it's because I love to write too much not to write. Whatever the motivation, here I am again. Re-launching J.Love & Life's Little Happenings.

I welcome your feedback and direction. Here's to the Uncommitted Blogger, trying one more time.