Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Tettamanti.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I majored in Telecommunications from the University of Florida. After graduating, I had a stint in PR and realized my dream job was to write for a print magazine. Focused on this goal, I took an entry-level position at a local fashion magazine. After years of hard work, I became said fashion magazine’s Editor in Chief. When I got married, my priorities changed. Those 3 a.m. print deadlines didn’t work for my marriage so I decided to become a freelance writer at age 30. It was a scary move but many great things were born from this major career change.
My freelance clients include Miami.com, The Miami Herald, Allure magazine, The Huffington Post and more. About 11 years ago, I decided to launch a lifestyle blog, thewordygirl.com. Said blog was just a passion project and has magically turned into my biggest “client” to date! Said blog has received many awards and has allowed me to collaborate with brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Saks, Neiman Marcus, Phillip Lim, Audi, Cadillac and more. Crazy stuff! My motto is: If you’re passionate about something, it doesn’t feel like “work.”
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Is there really such thing as a smooth road? I don’t think so! Some of my struggles included late-nights at the office to get the magazine to print. When I went freelance, I feared to be broke. In terms of being a blogger, struggle with not being thin or pretty enough in my photographs. When I write stories, I often feel insecure about my writing skills and tell myself, “This sucks!” I’d have to say that my biggest struggle today is balancing work and my personal life. I’m learning to say “no” more which is harder than saying “yes” for me.
Also… I’ve felt guilty I couldn’t cook dinner for my husband. I’ve felt guilty I had to attend events over some of my children’s activities. DID I MENTION FEELING GUILTY? Ha.
Blogger & Journalist – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I am a freelance writer and full-time blogger. In the journalism realm, my beat is fashion and beauty — sprinkled with celebrities. I’ve interviewed the likes of Oscar de Le Renta, Carolina Herrera, Christian Louboutin, Justin Timberlake, Pamela Anderson, Katie Couric and more. In the blogging world, I like to think thewordygirl.com is a funny blog about serious fashion, beauty, and travel. I am most proud of my blog’s success because it’s 100 percent my voice and creativity — and I don’t have an agent or publicist!
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is genuinely loving your work. Success is mentoring others and helping them reach their goals. Success is being independent and being able to pay my own bills. Success is having a happy marriage and empathetic children.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://thewordygirl.com
- Instagram: mariatettamanti
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWordyGirlBlog/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/MariaTettamanti
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=beDIt63TFZd90j6OBXJl-Q
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
