We are happy to announce that Jessica Gutowski Slaydon is sharing her social media prowess with us here at Lorrie Walker Communications. In case you haven’t met her yet, here’s her story and how she came to be our “social media butterfly.”

The Michigan native struck out for Florida in 2005 to pursue a spot on Florida Southern College’s waterski team, where she eventually became captain. She earned her bachelor’s degree in public relations with a minor in graphic design, and also snagged her best friend and future husband Jake Slaydon.

Jes, who’s always in a good mood- even on Mondays- didn’t slow down there.

“I have always enjoyed writing and event planning,” says Jes. “The positions that I have sought, I feel reflect my passion for those areas.”

Jes’s experience includes:

• Event chair and assistant at the Seminole Club of Polk County
• Campaign manager for the Gow Fields mayoral campaign
• Event coordinator intern at Polk County Sports Marketing
• Director of marketing and communication at Natural Air Energy in Winter Haven

Jes has been a member of EMERGE, a Lakeland young professionals group, since 2009. She is serving a three-year term on the steering committee, is the marketing committee chair and has also served on the membership committee.

“I was in a transitional phase of my life, between getting married and choosing what career paths may be available for me,” says Jes. “I saw working with Lorrie as a great way to sharpen my writing skills, and it has been.”

Jes hit the ground running since she started lending her expertise at the PR firm in July. She writes press releases, articles and other search engine optimized content. She’s also been able to use her graphic design skills by designing client newsletters.

“Jes has been a great resource,” Lorrie says. “I love her personality and her talent, and it’s rewarding to watch her grow as a writer. I know gaining writing experience is important to Jes, so it’s rewarding to know we’re helping her build upon those skills, while also benefitting from her social media talents. It’s safe to say we’d like her to stick around.”

That shouldn’t be a problem, since Jes and Jake just bought their first home here in Lakeland last month.

“Jake and I love this town, the location and the community,” Jes says. “I also enjoy my time here a little more each day. Working with Lorrie has taught me that a positive work environment can make all the difference in productivity.”

Well Jes, here’s to your everyday good moods, increased productivity, enhanced writing skills and your new home. Welcome to the team!