Meet Dara Toulch | Communications Director & Partner at Ballantines PR

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

Hi Dara, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Let me begin by sharing, I have a love/hate relationship with risk-taking. On the one hand, risk-taking continues to be a daunting hill to climb. On the flip side, in my experience, it’s a necessary catalyst to break through and achieve new goals. The idea of channeling courage and bravery in the face of uncertainty seems insurmountable, and yet, when I reflect on my life and career thus far, it’s that very act that has gotten me to where I am today.

On paper, and on the surface, my story doesn’t appear to involve any risk whatsoever. I’m inherently methodical and cautious, but I’ve always created space for some calculated risk-taking. And I would argue that taking a risk – on yourself, on someone else, or something that you’re curious about – is essential to personal and professional growth. Despite being continuously intimidated by the thought (more like, dread) of taking that unknown leap, time and time again, I have been proven wrong. There are constantly moments where the fear of failure and self-doubt try to get in the way of progress, but when those hesitations creep in, I try to revert to the moments where some calculated risk worked in my favor.

Jumping into something you’re passionate about – even if it poses some risk – tends to always pay off in some way, shape or form. It’s this payoff that continues to stoke my inner fire and that serves as a steadfast reminder to keep going.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve been fortunate to actively participate in the dynamic growth of Ballantines PR, a woman-owned luxury and lifestyle public relations agency, for the past 13+ years. Over the years, I’ve been witness to the agency’s captivating metamorphoses, each a testament to its resilience and adaptability. There, of course, are challenges with navigating the ebbs and flows of agency life. Plus, the uncertainty that comes with our industry – more specifically, the nature of earned media – means constant quick-thinking and the ability to problem-solve and pivot. Over the course of my career to-date, realizing that there is not necessarily one right way and one wrong way to achieve big wins – but rather, many right ways – has empowered me to lead high-profile communications strategies with assurance.

What drives me is working with world-class brands and seeing a project through from ideation to ink: dreaming up a big idea, crafting the story, and then seeing it grace the pages or channels of the most coveted media outlets – and ultimately, infusing delight into the hearts of consumers. One of the most gratifying aspects of my career thus far is the privilege I’ve had of actively contributing to the journeys of the women I work with – and in return, being inspired by and learning from them. Each step I take, each decision I make is guided by an unwavering mission to nurturing an environment where their aspirations flourish, their talents bloom, and their ambitions transcend limits. Cultivating a legacy of empowerment is what gets be out of bed every day and makes the work week worth it.

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?
I’m a big foodie at my core, so naturally any LA-centric itineraries revolve around the city’s culinary scene. A dinner at Dan Tana’s is a no-brainer for any out-of-towner visit. Grab a corner booth inside or post-up at the bar for their legendary Caesar Salad and Chicken Parm. Every meal at Dan Tana’s also comes with a healthy serving of people watching. Stepping into Café Stella at Sunset Junction feels like you’ve been transported to Paris. Everything (and I mean everything) on the menu is stellar, including one of the best Vespers I’ve ever sipped on.

Brunch might arguably be my favorite meal of the day, so there’s a lot to say here. Sycamore Kitchen on La Brea is a charming neighborhood café with heavenly pastries – I highly recommend their Banana and Chocolate Olive Oil Bread. If noshing on bagels is more your scene, Maury’s takes my top spot. The 75-year-young Nick’s Café in Chinatown is an unassuming corner diner with unbeatable eggs, hashbrowns and pancakes. But most often, you’ll find me digging into brunch fare outside Millie’s in Silverlake – they serve up everything you could hope for in a brunch menu, along with the quickest service.

Anyone who knows me knows that burgers reign supreme in my life. Carney’s has been keeping me well-fed since I moved here in 2010. This may be controversial, especially since LA is ripe with excellent burger spots, but it remains my #1 choice. My order? A cheeseburger w/ ketchup, mayo, mustard, pickles; fries w/ a side of mayo; and a wimpy diet coke.

And, keeping with the theme of dining and drinking, a weeklong visit to LA should include an overnight trip to Los Alamos. Just two hours or so from the city, you’ll find a dreamy little wine town with exceptional foodie options including Bell’s and Full of Life Pizza, along with excellent wine tasting options, including Casa Dumetz Wines, a woman-owned vineyard with the most charming tasting room and equally tasty wines.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’m filled with gratitude for the invaluable and extensive support network that surrounds me. Some exceptionally special individuals – family, friends, colleagues, partners, mentors, coaches and teachers – have rallied around me and have been source of unwavering support, propelling me forward in my journey.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daratoulch/