The Review:What I Learned from Hiring a PR Firm (And What I’d Do Differently)
Why alignment matters more than promises.
Hiring a PR firm was supposed to be the next natural step for me — a way to amplify everything I’ve built, share my story more widely, and build momentum for my upcoming book, The Art of Celebrating.
It sounded perfect on paper: a reputable agency with strong industry relationships, glowing testimonials, and a promise to elevate my personal brand and business through strategic placements, TV appearances, and lifestyle features.
I went into it with high hopes. I wanted to believe that this would be the kind of partnership that would expand my reach, strengthen my visibility, and take The Art of Celebrating to new audiences.
A few months later, the experience taught me far more than I anticipated — and not in the way I expected.
I’ve always believed in the power of PR. When done right, it amplifies your message, helps you reach the right audience, and builds meaningful visibility for your brand.
But I’ve also learned that PR only works when you’re partnered with the right team — one that truly understands your brand, your goals, and your voice.
This relationship began when the PR firm reached out to me. I received multiple emails — sometimes several a day — filled with compliments, research, and promises that sounded like everything I’d ever wanted: national press, morning shows, brand collaborations, and the kind of visibility every entrepreneur dreams of.
They had clearly done their homework. They knew my story, my achievements, my book, and my goals. After several persistent follow-ups, I agreed to a call. They spoke confidently about taking my brand to national television, securing top-tier press, and elevating The Art of Celebrating in the months leading to its release.
It felt like divine timing. Everything they said aligned perfectly with my goals. So I trusted them.
The Reality
Once I signed, things changed immediately. The owner — the person who had courted me so passionately — disappeared. Without any notice, I was handed off to two people I had never met, with no introduction or transition. On our first call, it became clear that they knew very little about me, my work, or my brand.
When I asked for the PR plan, the first thing they said was, “We’re thinking Real Housewives.”
Now, while I love the show, that is not my brand, my demographic, or my vision. That moment told me everything I needed to know: they hadn’t done their homework beyond the initial pitch.
The “team” assigned to me seemed inexperienced, more like interns than publicists, and I quickly realized I had been sold the dream but delivered something completely different. The detailed PR plan I was promised never came. When I followed up, I was told they “reviewed my notes and were on it.” I never heard from the owner again — until it was time for another payment.
The persistence around invoices was unmatched. Multiple texts. Multiple emails. That same energy and persistence I had seen at the beginning — but only when it came to payment.
Once paid, the communication vanished again.
The Reflection
To be frank, I walked away from this experience feeling like I had been targeted — maybe even catfished. Looking back, it almost feels like their business model is built on finding established entrepreneurs and persuading them into signing contracts filled with vague promises of press and publicity that never materialize.
It was disappointing, frustrating, and disheartening.
But I also learned a lot. And I want to share those lessons for anyone considering investing in PR, because it can be worth it — but only when you’re working with the right people.
5 Lessons I Learned from This PR Experience
1. PR is powerful — but only when it’s strategic.
PR should feel like partnership, not a transaction. Look for teams that align with your brand voice, not just those promising access.
2. Don’t confuse persistence with professionalism.
There’s a difference between being eager for results and being pushy about payment. Energy should be consistent — before and after you sign.
3. Demand transparency and structure.
Ask for a clear plan, pitch calendar, and defined KPIs. You deserve to know who’s pitching you, where, and with what story.
4. Protect your brand and your story.
Never let someone else define what your visibility should look like. If it doesn’t feel aligned, speak up — or walk away.
5. Always trust your instincts.
The moment something feels off, it probably is. Respect that feeling early, not months later.
The Takeaway
I still believe in PR. I believe in its power to tell stories, create connection, and open doors. But I’ve learned that not every agency — no matter how polished their pitch — is the right fit.
The right PR partner doesn’t chase you down to sign. They earn your trust through transparency, follow-through, and a shared understanding of your brand’s purpose.
This experience was a hard lesson, but it reminded me of something I’ve always known: your voice, your consistency, and your authenticity will always be your strongest PR.
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