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In the crowded field of public relations, marketing, specialty novelty/luxury items, and events, Kerith Elizabeth Henderson has her own thing going. Kerith’s experience of developing her own business is a noteworthy tale for folks trying to find their way and forge careers in creative, non-traditional ways while having fun. Plus it’s a reminder to us all that publicists are people too, ahem.
Age and Occupation:
31. President of PRess, co-owner of PiscesSoap.com and Marketing Director of Red Carpet Boutique.
How long have you lived in Los Angeles, and which neighborhood do you live in?
I am a native Angeleno -- my parents were transplants though (New York, New Mexico). I recently purchased a house in Hancock Park but I have lived all over this huge city: Los Feliz, Silverlake, West Hollywood, Fairfax District, Sherman Oaks, North Hollywood, Northridge, Canoga Park, Altadena, Sylmar, Studio City...
Where are you from?
I grew up in Sherman Oaks...back when everyone hung out at the Sherman Oaks Galleria and said "Like, ya know" and "Gag me with a spoon". I was a total Valley Girl -- I thought that Sherman Oaks was the only place on earth.
What are some of the challenges and advantages of starting a creative business and marketing it in LA?
Fortunately, I haven't run into very many challenges of managing a creative business based on being in Los Angeles. This location tends to actually add appeal for potential customers, clients and editors. I do however run into all of the typical challenges that others who are self-employed and creative run into. Money is always an issue and I never have enough time in the day!
If anything, I feel that for a city this size, we should have better resources for small business owners and those in creative fields. We don't really have a "hub" where we can all hook up at. This is when I tend to be envious of other cities like New York and San Francisco.
Is the competition here fiercer than it is in other cities?
Los Angeles is all I know work-wise, so that is a hard question to answer. I feel that as long as I am motivated, think in a creative manner and stay centered, there will always be a place for me. I am not concerned about who my competition may or may not be.
