Happy 5th Birthday, Ignite!
Reflections on half a decade.
This week the Ignite Writers Collective turns 5! It’s a big birthday for what I still think of as my tiny business. Like a child, it’s grown faster than I ever imagined – and in ways I couldn't have predicted.
I started Ignite after leaving my role as Deputy Editor at ForbesWomen. It was meant to be a stopgap until I found another job in media. For those who haven’t heard this story before, my plan, if you could call it that, was to barely advertise my first writing class so that when no one signed up I wouldn’t have to admit I failed. I was convinced everyone would laugh at me. I was convinced I was making a mistake. But instead of being a flop, my writing workshops have morphed from one 4-week class to a multitude of class offerings, developmental editing services, 1:1 writing coaching and IRL retreats.
And you know what?
I barely recognize that terrified woman who couldn’t see that she was launching an entire business, not just one class.
My mission is to show the world that writing is a radical act. It is revolutionary for women and marginalized voices to publicly share our stories, the ones we’ve been told are shameful and should be silenced. Whether you’re playing in the sandbox - cultivating your creativity and giving yourself permission to paint outside of the lines - or working with a serious goal in mind, like a published essay or book, I started Ignite for you.
Because writing shouldn’t be a solitary act. It takes a village - from a writing community who cheers you on (and gives you constructive criticism when needed) to an editor who shares your vision for where your story can go.
Ignite By The Numbers aka Client Wins
Scored almost a half a million in book deals
One USA Today Bestseller (Go, Amy, go!)
Dozens of published essays in outlets like the New York Times, Vogue, Newsweek, Cosmopolitan, Electric Literature, Catapult, Tablet, HuffPo Personals, the Today Show and more
Agent representation by Aevitas Creative Management, Park & Fine Literary and Media and Janklow & Nesbit, among others
You Might Have Also Noticed….
We got a new lewk and identity, which captures my love for design and bright colors and everything iconic and playful. The redesign was spearheaded by the amazing Kalin and I hope it gives you a sneak peek into my personality and the way I approach my work: with intention, an eye for what sparks joy, and a desire to connect the things that excite me to the work I do. Ignite Writers Collective is not just a business - it’s a way of life. It’s a community. It’s a piece of my heart.
If you can't do a longer class, don’t worry!
I have:
And, of course, this Substack, where I share mini craft lessons, authors I love, behind the scenes snapshots of my book writing process and more.
Happy 5th! I love this so much. I'm at a new juncture and your story is very inspiring.
Happy FIVE!! 👋🏽 🥳