We had the good fortune of connecting with Kelly LaFarge and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kelly, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’m leaving the education field and transitioning to creating children’s books. The biggest consideration I’ve had to think through was investigating the publishing bussiness. Who the big publishers are. How do you do business with them. How to present my work professionally.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart is I’m self motivated. I keep my eye on the task at hand and revisit long-term goals monthly. Transitioning into children’s publishing I get to merge my advertising experience, my education experience, and my artistic skills. I’ve been working towards this third career for about seven years, building a portfolio, making new professional relationships and learning that the book business moves slowly. And they have no qualms about rejecting your work. I’ve learned to have thick skin and not take feedback personally. Brand story? Perseverance!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Actually my studio is my go-to place. I recharge with visits to museums, parks, and reading.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The greatest support I received was by joining the national organization called Society of Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators, or SCBWI for short. The organization is a wealth of information, advice, and advocacy for us members.

Website: Www.kellylafarge.net

Instagram: Www.instagram.com/kellylafarge

Twitter: @kellylafarge

Facebook: Www.facebook.com/kellylafarge

Image Credits
Kelly LaFarge

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