In Conversation with East End Taste CEO & Publisher, Vanessa Gordon

We got the inside scoop from the media side in our interview with Vanessa Gordon, CEO & Publisher of East End Taste, starting with her journey from freelance writing to founding a thriving publication. Discover how her publication's readership spans the globe and what resonates with them, as well as strategies for crafting pitches that capture attention and support editorial goals. Whether you're honing your pitch or seeking to align with emerging trends, read on for actionable insights for PR professionals aiming to excel in their field.

Tell us about your career before becoming CEO and publisher of East End Taste. 

My professional background began as an English as a second language teacher immediately following my graduate degree from NYU’s Steinhardt School of Education. I worked especially hard during this time in my early twenties, determined to pay off my student loans and under five years, so I also freelance Road and worked as a group fitness instructor after school. I taught an average of 6 to 8 classes per week at some of the local boutique gyms in the Hamptons, including indoor cycling and barre classes.

My freelance writing appeared in numerous publications including but not limited to Psychology Today, Long Island Pulse, Hamptons Magazine, The Independent newspaper, Pregnancy & Newborn, and Thrillist. It was in these roles that I built and developed the strong relationships that I continue to foster to this day. 

I founded East End Taste in the summer of 2016 and have served as its CEO & Publisher ever since.

What does your role as CEO and publisher entail?

As the CEO and publisher of East End Taste which serves as a digital medium that operates on a daily basis, even on weekends, I primarily spearhead strategic direction, business development, and financial management. My role entails constantly identifying growth opportunities, and ensuring profitability through sponsored content on the website and through our social media platforms. 

In addition, I oversee content strategy, editorial integrity, and audience engagement, guiding our editorial and creative direction based on this engagement. My responsibilities range from long-term planning to day-to-day management with my editorial and production team who are based all over the world from the Emirates and central Europe to Australia, demanding a blend of strategic foresight, creative vision, and operational proficiency to propel our company's success in the ever-evolving digital media landscape. 

Because of the time zone differences based upon where our team members are based, I typically wake up as early as 5:30am to make calls and answer emails with those across the Atlantic, and then beginning again towards 12 or 1pm for North America, and then again after 7pm to communicate with those who work for the company that are based in Australia. I typically oversee these three shifts during the week and the hours and work demand increase based on the season. For instance, my digital publication’s high season began this month (April) and will continue through mid October and pick up again during the holiday season. 

What are the demographics of your readership, and what are the audience’s key interests?

Though our primary audience is based on Long Island and within the New York City metro area, East End Taste has readers based all over the world, since nearly 80% of our readership comes from Google search. 

Our key demographics are 65% women ranging in age from 35 to 45 with a median household income of $175k. Regions around the world where we are seeing the most recent growth in readership include Portugal, Spain, Australia, Germany, the UAE, and Croatia.

Their key interests are culinary focused travel, coastal travel, interior design, mindful wellness, and the Hamptons and North Fork as a travel destination.

Essentially, we bring the world to the Hamptons and the Hamptons to the world, referencing specifically our East End readership and how they appreciate our coverage of regions that evoke a similar Hamptons aesthetic around the world. Destinations like the seclusion and peacefulness of Bowen Island outside of Vancouver or coastal Algarve region of southern Portugal. 

Hamptons Interactive Brunch (Credit: Getty Images) 

What types of stories resonate best with your readership? 

Our readers love to read about destinations that uncover the heart and soul of that particular region. Not just say the best new restaurants in the Hamptons, but getting to know the chefs and their creative flair and personality that they bring to the table. Or when we write about places across the Algarve. We want our readers to get to know how one man harvests salt and why his sustainable process is so crucial for local businesses, just as an example. In addition, one of our writers recently did a piece highlighting women owned restaurants in Qatar. It made me want to prioritize my travel there and discover more there one day soon. 

Are there any specific themes or topics you're currently focusing on or planning to cover in upcoming articles?

Yes, particularly as we approach the high season in the Hamptons, we always love highlighting or profiling business owners, and what’s new and notable. For travel related content and articles, we are focusing on sustainable hotels, wellness focused properties for the spring and summer, education programs and retreats at hotels worldwide, and sustainable culinary or wellness tours. One of my personal favorite stories we did recently focused on a running tour through Rome that also encompassed uncovering hidden or lesser known historic buildings and relics. 

How do you balance evergreen content with timely, trending topics?

For East End Taste and as a digital publication and platform, balancing evergreen editorial content with trending topics involves consistently maintaining a content calendar with a mix of timeless and timely subjects. 

Through weekly keyword researching, my team and I identify the search demand for evergreen topics and trending keywords for current lifestyle events. For evergreen content, we particularly focus on regions around the world that may be trending while also keeping in mind the demand for content focused within the NYC metropolitan area and New England area. 

Remaining flexible allows for quick incorporation of timely topics, while regular updates keep evergreen content relevant. Lastly, engaging with our audience informs content decisions, and monitoring industry trends ensures timely content creation.

How do you prefer pitches to be submitted? Do you have specific guidelines or preferences?

I prefer by email with a clear objective or proposed hed and dek for the story. I also prefer a short summary in advance of the press release to see right away if the pitch is fitting or not.

Also, I don’t mind follow-ups! A gentle follow-up is always sincerely appreciated since my days are filled with several different moving parts, especially now that I am planning my annual summer event, the Hamptons Interactive Brunch. 

Lastly, please do include a link to a folder of images in the first email with the appropriate credit for the images.

Hamptons Interactive Brunch (Credit: Getty Images) 

How can PR professionals best support your editorial goals and priorities?

Having images linked in the body of the email right away is especially crucial and saves a significant step in communication since we would need these to consider a story to be run. 

Also, please do keep us informed of client updates and news. We are also open to updating older articles with new and useful information, so feel free to pitch us ideas based on roundups and story angles we published six months ago or older. 

Are there any key trends or predictions in 2024 that PR pros should be aware of? 

Mindful, sustainable travel or sustainably forward travel comes to mind right away. I also believe and am grateful that authenticity and transparency seems to be at the forefront of communication this year. Tell me right away exactly what you would like in terms of working with me and my business. I love working with others and exceeding expectations, but always remember time is precious and communicate efficiently how you would like to work together instead of an open-ended “let’s partner or collaborate” message. 

East End Taste is also heavily focusing on expanding our video content and doing reel collaborations with other businesses, particularly with Discover Long Island and other local tourism operators to gauge more interest and content within our region. I am noticing this trend of reel collaborations picking up significantly and it is terrific for gaining traction with awareness with like minded brands and businesses. 


Canadian Marcomms Pros to Know

As our PR Net Canada chapter has grown, we’ve had exciting insight into the client work and talent management strategy that makes the local industry thrive. Get to know some of the key players below, from their take on the Canadian comms world to the favorite spots they frequent.

Dani Matte | President & CEO, The NBP Group

Where in Canada are you located?

We’re based in Toronto and also have a showroom in LA. Our work  is heavily focused on international PR so we spend a lot of time in New York and now LA.

What categories do your clients fit into?

Fashion, beauty, lifestyle, health/wellness and entertainment.

What’s unique about the Canadian comms world? What nuances are there marketing your clients locally vs. internationally?

The Canadian comms industry is much smaller than that of the US counterpart, so while the country is itself quite large, the opportunities within media are smaller, which allows us to be more creative with who we work with and explore more non-traditional efforts alongside traditional media.  We spend time looking at a multitude of touch points to hit specific markets as each province in the country speaks to a different consumer.

Without question, our focus in the Canadian market is heavily weighted in creating value, understanding how we work with each brand is unique to them. With Canadian brands, because of our distinct focus on international comms, consumers here appreciate exposure from US based outlets, which in turn creates additional exposure and interest from local outlets. Lead times are different with Canadian media, so we accommodate interest based on this. Between this and a 360 strategy, we cater our efforts to the needs of each individual client, which in Canada can mean a variety of categories. Consumers are too smart to see cookie cutter programs.

What are a few of your favorite local spots to dine, shop, work out, etc.?

Oh, I have tons. Local fav restaurants include:

  • Rasa - because the burger is unmatched

  • Sotto Sotto - being with a Sicilian has highly advanced my palette for Italian cuisine

  • Guilietta - again the dishes are divine

  • Jacob’s steakhouse - the caesar salad and wagyu tasting are personal favs

  • Mamakas - authentic greek cuisine

  • Union - the brunch is incredible

I am a serious shopper. But I’m efficient at heart, so I tend to visit locations that will allow me to get everything I need in 1 go:

  • Yorkville destinations, TNT, Bash, Le Labo

  • Yorkdale Mall, could not be happier Anine Bing has made its debut in Toronto

  • Hilary MacMillan is a local fav

  • TFE - the consignment shop in Summerhill

  • Shop Thursdays is great for more affordable casual pieces

To workout, if you know me, you know i’m a Lagree addict. And now have recently fallen in love with Totum Life Science, which has a completely different approach to fitness and healthcare. Othership is also a great fav, and you couldn’t love a spa day at the Four Seasons hotel, Thermea and Go Place - all of which are must-visits.

Ashley Rosenberger | Founder, Rose PR

Where in Canada are you located?

While we have offices in both Toronto and Montreal, I am located in Montreal, QC. 

What categories do your clients fit into?

Specializing in lifestyle PR, our clients span across a wide variety of industries such as Beauty, Fashion & Design, Health & Wellness,  Luxury Goods, Gastronomy, and Travel & Hospitality. We consider ourselves really lucky to work with such a diverse range of clients as it really has given us a wider perspective, allowing us to be adaptable and creative when addressing the needs of each of our clients. 

What’s unique about the Canadian comms world? What nuances are there marketing your clients locally vs. internationally?

I think one aspect that is particularly unique about the Canadian communications world is that National Canada and Quebec need to be treated as two completely distinct markets. The reason being that Quebecers have their own cultural identity that is unique to them only. To thrive nationwide, a brand must not only resonate with the broader Canadian audience but also immerse itself in Quebec's culture. In addition, the comms landscape in each market is very different, given the difference in language, history, and culture. As such, our comms strategies often need to be adapted to each specific market in the execution phase. This localized approach ensures relevance and resonance, maximizing the brand's impact across the diverse Canadian landscape.

What are a few of your favorite local spots to dine, shop, work out, etc.?

In terms of dining, it’s no secret that in Montreal we’re blessed with one of the most diverse and amazing gastronomy scenes in Canada! Besides the classic “hot spots” such as Milos and L’Express (which both hold a special place in my heart!), I think there are also a few spots lesser known to tourists that deserve a shout out!. Some of my favorites are definitely Côté Cuisine for their Chicken Rice Bowl, Leméac for the best pain perdu, and Luciano Trattoria for hands down the most incredible Italian food in the city.

When it comes to working out, I am quite certain there is nobody who will make you sweat more than celebrity trainer Val Desjardins at Studio MTL. Her and her whole team are just incredible. 

Finally in terms of shopping, I absolutely love the boutique stores in Outremont such as Billie Boutique & Billie Le Kid. 

Daniel Pillai | President & CEO, LANGTON

Where in Canada are you located?

Based in Toronto and Vancouver, but working consistently in Montreal, New York City and Los Angeles.

What categories do your clients fit into?

Beauty, wellness, healthcare, financial empower & support, community support, education & immigration and beauty & fashion tech start-ups. 

What’s unique about the Canadian comms world? What nuances are there marketing your clients locally vs. internationally?

Canada, being as multicultural as it is, really supports a diverse community and initiatives and diversity has always been a part of our ethos when it comes to the communications world. Long before it was a mandate, Canada with its diverse population has always been a place for us to attract a diverse client and tell stories that matter to everyone, from various walks of life. From an international point of view, mainly from my experience working in the US, I find Canada to be a great testing ground for new strategies, perspectives, and experiences. From a local perspective, I think it’s important to be very finely tuned toward the needs of a consumer or community. Canada is not a homogenous group; so, I very rarely find that blank strategies work; we must tailor our outreaches and strategies to get the best result when working locally.

What are a few of your favorite local spots to dine, shop, work out, etc.?

Favourite Italian restaurants: Terroni and Piano Piano. 

Fave Brunch Spot: Simit & Chai and Pasaj

I love walking around Shops on Don Mills and Yorkdale Shopping Mall.

Taking a walk in High Park is always great during a spring and summer evening.

Jennifer Love | President, Duet PR 

Where in Canada are you located?

Toronto 

What categories do your clients fit into?

I don’t think there’s a category we haven’t touched in our 15 years of Duet, but currently: Hospitality, Travel and Tourism, Not-For-Profit, Construction, CPG, and the Arts. 

What’s unique about the Canadian comms world? What nuances are there marketing your clients locally vs. internationally?

There are some subtle nuances in doing comms in Canada vs. Internationally. Beyond the obvious spelling, grammar, and bilingual labelling, I’ve found affiliate marketing is not as essential to Canadian media as it is in markets such as the US yet. It’s also a “small world” here, with fewer outlets to pitch, than larger markets like the US, and with that, we fight for consumer attention as many Canadians consume media from international sources. Also, thanks to the Online News Act, we can’t leverage social accounts the same way we can with US press. 

What are a few of your favorite local spots to dine, shop, work out, etc.?

Dine - Tutti Matti, Sara, Aloette

Shop - Veronica Beard, BA&SH, Mine & Yours

Workout - 10XTO, Catalyst Health, Othership

Chantel Cassar & Lauren Arnold | Co-Founders, Category Communications

Where in Canada are you located?

We are based in Toronto, ON.

What categories do your clients fit into?

At Category, we primarily serve clients in the technology, real estate, and retail sectors. Our mission is to collaborate with North America's changemaking brands that are leading their respective categories.

What’s unique about the Canadian comms world? What nuances are there marketing your clients locally vs. internationally?

The Canadian media landscape is significantly smaller compared to the US and other global markets. At Category Communications, we develop communication strategies that emphasize localizing narratives and forging meaningful relationships with media, influencers, and key government decision-makers. A significant aspect of our approach involves data-led storytelling and the use of regionally specific statistics to enhance our clients' stories. 

What are a few of your favourite local spots to dine, shop, work out, etc.?

We love The Well - a new mixed-use development in the heart of Toronto that combines retail, commercial, residential, and community (while being architecturally stunning!). We spend a lot of time at Sweat & Tonic, either doing team workouts or working remotely out of the Tonic House. We’re big fans of Mandy’s Salads as our lunch spot. We also love Abrielle, a new restaurant in the Sutton Place Hotel where we recently hosted our team and advisors for dinner.

Shannae Ingleton | Co-Founder, President & CEO, Kensington Grey 

Where in Canada are you located?

Toronto, Canada

What categories do your clients fit into?

Client Categories: Fashion, Beauty, Skincare, Lifestyle, Curvy, Family, Fitness, Gen-X, Gen-Z, Latinx, Luxury, Men, LGBTQIA+, Thought Leaders, Travel, Wine & Spirits and Regional Markets (NYC, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Texas, DC, Maryland, Virginia, Canada)

What’s unique about the Canadian comms world? What nuances are there marketing your clients locally vs. internationally?

It’s unique in that the Canadian Comms space still has a long way to go when it comes to diversity and inclusion. That presents a tremendous window of opportunity for Black-owned and Diverse-owned firms to drive change, make an impact, thrive, and flourish.  Our Canadian influencers with US & Canadian audiences have a unique opportunity to work with both the Canadian and US divisions of their favourite brands. Lastly, as a Canadian-based influencer management agency that represents a lot of US-based clients, we have a unique opportunity to help clients expand into the international market.

What are your favorite local spots to dine, shop, work out, etc.?

I love dining at Miss Likklemores or Simone’s, shopping at Holt Renfrew and recommend The Danforth area for leisurely walks along boutique shops and cafes.

Heidi Ruggier | CEO & Founder, Matte PR

Where in Canada are you located?

I’m based in Toronto, where Matte PR is headquartered inside East Room’s OG 50 Carroll Street location. I divide my time between Toronto and my home in Prince Edward County. 

What categories do your clients fit into?

Our clients tend to fit into a luxury category, whether it be fashion, real estate, food and beverage, design or finance. A common thread is many of our clients speak to similar consumers, providing them with products and services designed to help them live well. 

What’s unique about the Canadian comms world? What nuances are there marketing your clients locally vs. internationally?

Canada is nuanced across its different regions, with the culture changing considerably from province to province. To succeed, campaigns must be localized, demonstrating relevancy and a connection to the target market. What works in Ontario won’t necessarily work in British Columbia, reflecting regional differences in lifestyle and point of view. In Québec, there is also the language aspect to consider, and campaigns must be executed in French by local creatives and brand ambassadors. As an agency, we are immensely thoughtful about who we collaborate with on any campaign, making sure they are an airtight fit for the brand. This translates into seamless content that is authentic and resonates with the audience we’re engaging with. 

What are a few of your favorite local spots to dine, shop, work out, etc.?

My Toronto dining favourites are Banu, Honest Weight and WVRST. When the Pig Came Home in The Junction is a fave as well. Brunch at Le Select or Ladurée, always. I am in awe of everyone at Twenty Victoria, one of the best places I have dined, globally. 

When I’m in Prince Edward County, you can find me at Bocado — Chef Stuart Cameron delivers thoughtful seasonal menus and outstanding execution every time. I also love to hang at La Condessa, Midtown Brewery and The Drake Devonshire. I love everything about Citizen Frances, a new spot in Bloomfield in The County.

My number one spot for shopping is FAWN Boutique on Queen West — Kasha has the best taste. INLAND’s seasonal pop-ups showcasing Canadian fashion are another favourite. Canadian designers regularly rotate in my closet, especially work by OkayOk, Ahiri, Spencer Badu and Dorian Who. 

All of that is paired with my go-to lip colour — a swipe of Kjaer Weis’ KW Red. It is the best clean matte red lipstick formulation out there. I’m obsessed with my haircuts from Sassoon Salon, watching them cut my hair is always a masterclass. 

For workouts, you can catch me cycling in the streets of Toronto or doing Shaolin Kung Fu at STQI Downtown Toronto. I’m also an avid ClassPass user, and Toronto has so many amazing studios. A few of my current faves are Studio Lagree, Imprint Pilates and Jaybird. 

My favourite spot for furniture is Atomic Design, where owner and curator Lawrence Blairs offers well-chosen selection of furniture, art, lighting, modernist glass, jewellery and objects from the early 1960s through to the mid-80s. He compiles the history of standout pieces in their own duo-tangs (haha, this is a very Canadian word!). He references them when passionately showing his latest acquisitions, some of which are part of the permanent collection in the MoMA. The store is a piece of design paradise. 

Deanne Moser | Founder, DM Public

Where in Canada are you located?

Toronto  

What categories do your clients fit into?

We specialize in arts, culture, entertainment and brand that want to touch these industries. Within the art sector, we specialize in visual arts, dance, opera, and theatre. Our clients range from large institutions and theatres to smaller galleries. We have a robust festival line-up and are so excited to work with some of the most engaging clients in Canada. Within entertainment, we work with immersive VR/AR experiences and sporting events with community elements. We also work with selective brands that want to engage with arts and culture in a real way. 

What’s unique about the Canadian comms world? What nuances are there marketing your clients locally vs. internationally?

It appears that the communication issue faced by my clients is a common problem in the art and culture industry, not just in Canada but around the world. The success of campaigns in this field is often dependent on selling out theatres or filling up seats. As a result, many of my clients require a direct connection to purchase tickets. To address this, we utilize the influence of enthusiasts and influencers, and plan a targeted outreach campaign to connect our clients with their desired audience. Our approach encompasses not only traditional media and social media, but also possible ticket buyers, donors, and sponsors. By doing so, we can assist our clients in achieving their goals and ensuring the success of their events. We want people to hear about it, talk about it and eventually go see it and possibly invest in it. 

What nuances are there marketing your clients locally vs. internationally? It's often challenging for us to gain exposure in larger outlets such as The New York Times, as our artists and institutions are not as well-known. We put in a lot of effort to showcase Canadian culture within an international context. One of my main goals is to alter the perception of Canadian culture. We have evolved beyond traditional landscape art, plaid shirts, poutine and hockey. It's time for the world to recognize us as a multicultural hub that produces exceptional entertainment.

What are a few of your favorite local spots to dine, shop, work out, etc.?

Favourite spots to dine: Toronto really has exceptional dining with so many choices. My go-to's are Bar Prima, Mamakas, Afrobeat Kitchen, Golden Turtle, Alo, Burger Drops, Lake Inez, Prime Seafood Palace, Sunny's Chinese, Dim Sum King, Bernhart's, Pizzeria Badiali... the list goes on and on! 

Shop: I try to shop Canadian as much as possible. Some of my favourite fashion designers are Dorian Who, Sid Neigum, and Beaufille. For online shopping, I'm likely on Ssense, and for in-person shopping, I'm likely at The Webster in Yorkville and Prada on Bloor. For art buying, my go-to galleries are Cooper Cole, Patel Brown, Cultural Goods Gallery, and Zalucky Gallery. For furniture, I love upcycled designer, so I can likely be found on auction sites or even Facebook Marketplace. For florals, I love the creative artistry over at Mitsu. 

Work out: I like Othership for its sauna and cold dips; it's a perfect way to start the day and beat jet lag.

Visit:  Toronto Union has some of the best food/entertainment options with markets, shopping etc. I like what's happening this summer down at The Bentway, it just feels cool to hang out under a major freeway. Illuminarium for the best in immersive entertainment, AGO and MOCA Toronto for its contemporary exhibitions, TO LIVE for it's performances in Meriden Hall. Luminato has an awesome line-up this June with so many free concerts and exhibitions. The Museum of Toronto is the place to go for the most unique exhibitions about the history of Toronto, it's a fun way to geek out with fascinating stories. This fall I can't wait for the arrival of the Toronto Biennial of Art and Art Toronto. I also am so excited about the arrival of women's sports! The PWHL, Hoop Queens and hopefully more to come! 

Priya Chopra | Founder & CEO, 1Milk2Sugars & double shot

Emma Cusson | Creative Director, 1Milk2Sugars

Ruth Goudie | President, 1Milk2Sugars

Where in Canada are you located?

1Milk2Sugars has head offices in Toronto and Montreal as well as a U.S. hub in New York City. 

What categories do your clients fit into?

Our clients represent a variety of industries, including beauty & skincare, health & wellness, food & beverage, home improvement, parenting & baby, and hospitality. 

What’s unique about the Canadian comms world? What nuances are there marketing your clients locally vs. internationally?

Canada is a multicultural mosaic and brands are expected to celebrate that diversity in their marketing and campaigns. Additionally, Canadians tend to favour polite communication and the common good over ambition and individual success. 

Canada is a bilingual country that’s home to over seven million native French speakers in Quebec alone. From customized brand messaging to navigating regulatory standards, marketing strategies must acknowledge Quebec's unique French flair – including its distinct language, values, habits and preferences – and craft their campaigns accordingly to find success.

Canada’s smaller population size relative to the U.S. can make it easier and faster to penetrate the market with a new brand. Similarly, Canada’s smaller size makes it a strong test market for brands looking to soft launch their concept before bringing it to a larger audience.

Additionally, Canadians historically have a higher cost of living compared to the U.S. meaning consumers are likely to prioritize value in their shopping experience.

What are a few of your favorite local spots to dine, shop, work out, etc.?

Priya: Un Po di Piu in Old Montreal is authentic Italian dining and 10XTO for state of the art fitness facility in TO. 

Ruth: I love Buds Coffee in my Beaches neighborhood in Toronto and I enjoy private yoga with my friend. When visiting our team in NYC, LaRina in Brooklyn is my go-to. A gem of an authentic Italian resto!

Emma: In Montreal, Gia Bar & Grill for dinner, Sav Sav for coffee are my current faves. I love staying at W Hotel Toronto for a perfect work & play stay when visiting the TO team. When working from LA, I love Laurel Hardware – good pasta, good atmosphere and good wine!

Alanna Ramgoolam | Business Director, ZAK 

Where in Canada are you located? 

I’m located in the beautiful city of Montreal, but we also have an office in Toronto.

What categories do your clients fit into? 

Our clients span fashion (clothing, luggage, jewelry), beauty (makeup, skincare, fragrance), and lifestyle (hotels, restaurants, fitness and wellness spaces).

What’s unique about the Canadian comms world? What nuances are there marketing your clients locally vs. internationally? 

We often work with international brands and love the challenge of adapting their global concepts to our market or crafting entirely new strategies that we know will resonate well here. Canada’s landscape is vast geographically with concentrated hubs, each with their own unique community and we make sure our strategies leverage that. For example, Quebec has more than just a language difference, the culture here is its own and needs to be reflected and embraced in how we outreach to media, in how we storytell to consumers. Canada is also richly multicultural, allowing opportunities to create inclusive campaigns that reflect Canada’s diverse cultures.

What are a few of your favorite local spots to dine, shop, work out, etc.? 

I love dining out, it’s my absolute favourite treat so I’ll start there – Moccione and Boxermans are top of my list, neighbourhood gems, quality ingredients and an inspiring wine list. Chef’s kiss, as they say. Laurier Est has some of my favourite shops to pop in and out of, Coeur d’Artichaut, Buk & Nola, a little bookstore, a coffee shop, a small grocer and can’t forget Rhubarbe bakery – the smell alone leaves me dreaming of their pastries! It’s a great street for a relaxed, weekend stroll to offset a busy week :) To work out, I’ll give some client love: Studio Set Pilates and Barre classes know how to get my muscles burning in the best possible way ✨

Lisa Pasquin | President, Craft Public Relations

Where in Canada are you located?

Craft is based out of Toronto, Ontario.

What categories do your clients fit into?

At Craft, we create shareworthy stories that get people talking about consumer brands. Our focus is on CPG, food and lifestyle, and our incredible roster of clients includes Tim Hortons, Nintendo of Canada, Hershey, Moosehead Breweries and GE Appliances.

What’s unique about the Canadian comms world? What nuances are there marketing your clients locally vs. internationally?

In Canada, we have to manage the impact of working in the shadow of the massive US media market. News and information don’t stop at the border, and US spill has a daily impact on both consumer perceptions and the local media landscape. This has, I think, expedited cuts to Canadian media, in particular lifestyle media – because picking up content from the US is such a viable option. So the bar for developing breakthrough storytelling is high. It also means Canadian outlets are hungry for a relevant local angle to any story – what makes this worth covering in a Canadian outlet, by a Canadian journalist?   

What are a few of your favorite local spots to dine, shop, work out, etc.?

Both my home and our office are in Toronto’s east end (we’re so lucky to get to work out of the King Street location of the East Room, one of the most beautiful and well-curated office spaces in the city) – so I spend a lot of time in the area! Here are a few of my local faves:

  • Wynona, a dream dinner destination offering the trifecta of warm service, interesting wine and memorable fresh food
  • Queen Books, a truly perfect neighbourhood bookstore. I’m probably there every week, picking up a new read for myself, a book for my son or a unique and beautiful gift. The shop was just featured in the book “150 Bookstores You Need to Visit Before you Die” – they’re #20!
  • Chi Junky is a magical local yoga and movement studio. Making the Tuesday pilates class part of my weekly routine was my New Year’s Resolution.
  • Erin & Co is an online store – but I’m claiming them for the east end since they’re also based out of the East Room. The shop is owned and curated by my friend, Erin Shearer, and it’s like getting to shop the home and closet of the most stylish person you know. I couldn’t live without her iconic utility totes – I have four of them in all different colours!

And of course (shameless client plug), I’m a regular at my local Tims – one of the new Savoury Pinwheels and a London Fog and I’m set.

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