Meet Venessa King | Marketing & Communications Consultant

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

Hi Venessa, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Setting out on my own has definitely allowed me to achieve a better balance in my life. Being able to work when I can, from wherever I can and having the flexibility to be with my family has been great. It means that I may work varied hours like super early in the morning or late at night but I got to workout or see a friend for lunch or spend extra time with my children. These things are important to keep a person whole!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am a tenured expert in strategic brand marketing, communications, brand partnership execution, event advisement and talent procurement. With nearly 20 years of experience working on behalf of highly visible global brandsI have a diverse background in various industries that include fitness + wellness, fashion, hospitality, public policy/affairs, social good, etc.

I spent move of my career in NYC working for some of the most top agencies leading global clients to launch brands, unique collaborations and partnerships, etc. As an independent consultant in Los Angeles to both brands and agencies working with retail/fashion, fitness, tech and non-profit organizations on high level business, broadcast and expert positioning I am able to touch amazing and unique campaigns and programs.

I am lucky enough to gain referrals by word of mouth via current clients or past clients. I have allowed myself to venture into new spaces such as working with a military non profit organization which I was completely unfamiliar with at the time. I had never worked with any similar type of organization and now it’s been 3 years!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love the hotels in LA. Before I moved here from New York, I was lucky enough to travel to Los Angeles often. My favorite places to stay were the Château Marmont, Sunset Marquis, and the Mandarin Oriental. I also love Sunset Tower, the Edition and the The 1.

In terms of what to do and where to go – a visit to the beach is a must! I like to go to Ocean Park in Santa Monica or down to Malibu. I really love hiking in the Pacific Palisades on the Los Leones Canyon Trail followed by lunch down at Gladstones on the Beach. Another daytime thing to do is visiting Soho Warehouse in DTLA – the rooftop pool is one of my favorites.

For a night out, I really enjoy dancing and there is a really great lounge with great music called Let’s Go Disco also in DTLA. Dinner beforehand at La ChaChaCha makes for a fun girls night out! For something more low key, Donna’s in Los Feliz has amazing food including the most addicting garlic bread I’ve ever had!! There are lots of options for drinks nearby as well, including one of my most favorite bars, Bar Flores. In the summer the patio is so nice as are the huge windows the bar has with bar seating. It’s just a fun atmosphere with good drinks.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am really grateful to everyone I’ve worked with and for along my career. Some people have been amazing mentors, become great friends and at times, some may have been not so wonderful to work with but all of them, each and everyone has taught me a lesson. Every one you meet on your journey can affect it. My family is also a big reason I am able to do what I do in my day to day life. I have such a supportive partner and amazing kids that it makes work hard when I work but disconnect and be present when I am not.

Website: www.venessaking.com

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