Meet Vanessa

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Vanessa. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Vanessa below.

Hi Vanessa, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

So, here’s the story. I was at a gardening conference in Florida. On my way out of the auditorium, I saw a little business card taped to the wall that said, “We are looking for editors!” It was from a publishing company.
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“Hmm. That’s cool. I’m good with words. I should look into this.”
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The publishing company had a booth at the conference. I’m a little shy, but I managed to pluck up the courage and talk to the worker at the booth—a kind, grandfatherly man.
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“I’m interested in being an editor for your company.” He happened to be one of the managers. We chatted for a little while. He grabbed his iPad and showed me a sample contract, explaining what each part meant.
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Then he handed me the business card that would change my life forever. It was for their head editor. “Email [Sylvia] and she’ll send you a book to edit. Normally, we have our prospective workers take an editing test, but I’m going to skip that with you. The book will be your editing test.” Like, that’s it? Everything about this encounter was providential.
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Sure enough, I emailed the head editor, she sent me a book to edit, and the rest is history! I learned so much: how to be a good editor, how much I loved editing, how it was the career I had been searching for.

Four years later, I’ve launched my own business, Vanessa May Co, where I have the pleasure of working with incredible clients editing books and digital marketing content.
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I’m deeply grateful for the publishing company that gave me my first editing job, the thriving company I’ve been blessed to build, and God for guiding me every step of the way. Here’s to taking chances and being brave!

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I’m an editor with a passion for memoirs. I love helping people tell their story because it lets me connect with their personal journey, support them in sharing their voice, and contribute to stories that make a difference in the lives of others. Each memoir I’ve been privileged to edit holds a special place in my heart. (The book I am pictured holding, Spiritual Battles and Warfare, is one of those memoirs! The other book I am pictured holding, Jesus, the Ultimate Ladies’ Man, was such a meaningful project to be part of and was a 2023 Best Book Award Finalist!) Publishing a book is not for the faint of heart, and I am so proud of each author I get to work with! In addition to memoirs, I also specialize in editing digital marketing content, making sure my clients’ voices shine online. When you work with me, it’s a stress-free process—I’m here to help, not judge, and my goal is to make your writing the best it can be.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

The three qualities that have been most impactful on my journey as an editor and in starting my own company are empathy, a strong knowledge of language and style, and a passion for reading and writing.

Empathy allows me to connect with my clients on a deeper level, understanding their stories and intentions while providing support and guidance throughout the editing process.

My strong knowledge of language and style ensures that I can deliver polished, cohesive, and engaging content that resonates with readers.

Finally, my love for reading and writing inspires me to help others share their stories in a genuine and impactful way, making each project a rewarding experience.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

My sister, Brittney of Silver Leaf Office, has been incredibly supportive in helping me overcome challenges and develop the essential skills I needed to succeed. Especially in the early stages of starting my company, her guidance was invaluable. I knew how to edit, but I had no idea how to build a company from scratch. She provided the expertise and advice that helped me navigate all the challenges that come with being an entrepreneur. I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without her encouragement and help! Thanks, sis!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.vanessamayco.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessamay.co/