Love for Words Book Editing Boutique has the Spotlight this week at Entrepreneur Avenue. Her owner, CaTyra, is a Rochester Business Journal Forty Under 40 Honoree. CaTyra is the Creator/Hostess of Editor Knows Best (an international writing and editing podcast for literary professionals) and Writer’s Paradise (a writing forum for authors and writers). She also founded Mochachocolate, a trademark brand that celebrates, uplifts, and empowers dark-skinned girls and women across the globe.
CaTyra is the author of Professionalism, What’s That, Dear August, Love August (a personal poetry compilation), Keep This In Mind: What Black Women Think About (a journal for Black women), and Editor Knows Best, a 101 guide for literary professionals/creatives interested in editing.
What is Love for Words?
Love for Words is a book editing boutique. We specialize in non-fiction such as memoirs, self-help, poetry, and autobiographies.
How was Love for Words born?
In 2016, a friend of mine, who is also a publisher, was looking for an editor. I offered a sample edit. She loved it, and the rest was history. Then, she started referring her clients to me. As my clientele grew, I decided to launch Love for Words. I established its parent company, Polland Enterprises LLC, in 2017.
What were the main challenges?
In the beginning, I didn’t have consultation calls before starting projects, so no expectations were established. I didn’t know what my clients wanted, and my clients didn’t know what I could offer. Now I complete a consultation with each client before we begin work. We talk about our expectations and decide if we are a good fit.
In addition, I had to learn the intricacies of editing. Being a good writer is not enough. I read books about the art and science of editing, research other editors, and ask my clients for feedback.
Who is the most supportive of your business?
My friends and family have been incredibly supportive. Some of my friends are clients!
What makes you different from the business across the street who offers a cheaper service?
My ability to encourage, uplift, and empower. My sympathetic and empathetic personality. I am an author, so I can relate to my clients. Having experience as an instructor for children and adults also makes me more patient. I am open to sharing my personal experiences with clients to develop a connection.
Why is editing essential for a business?
Editing is important for business owners to establish a credible and trustworthy brand. Misspelled words, grammatical errors, and unclear text presents an unfavorable image.
What future projects do Love for Words have?
- Editor Knows Best
Editing 101 guide that explains the types of editing, what to expect from your editor, the benefits of hiring an editor, and more.
- Write, Wine, & Quarantine Magazine
Publishing a magazine that features poems and short stories about people’s experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What advice would you offer to other entrepreneurs?
- Do it, even if you’re scared.
- Don’t share everything. Some things should be discreet.
- Keep learning. Always.
- Delegate.
- Have a team that supports you.
- Take care of yourself.
If you were to define Love for Words in one sentence, how would you do it?
Love for Words is a book editing boutique that polishes your manuscript, so it shines.
How would you describe your experience with Utility Avenue?
Utility Avenue offers the opportunity for business owners to showcase their products and services. It is an inviting and supportive platform for entrepreneurs to shine.
Love for Words’ Contact Info
Website: https://www.pollandllc.com/
Email:polland@pollandllc.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pollandllc/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pollandllc/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cpolland/
Editing Packages and a la carte services are available.
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Utility Avenue’s Spotlight focuses on promoting inspiring businesses every week. For a chance to be interviewed, contact us at support@utilityavenue.com with the subject Spotlight.