How long have you been with Donning?
I started with Donning as a researcher in 2001. I moved over to the Walsworth side in 2004 and worked in Human Resources for four years. I came back to Donning in 2008 as an editor and have been in this capacity since.
Take me through some of the highlights of your job.
I work with authors and customers in preparing and finalizing their manuscript. I try not to rewrite their work, but polish it and make it more reader friendly. Experienced Donning authors generally have their ducks in a row and require minimal assistance. Most are inexperienced, however, at authoring or tackling a book project. These can be challenging and labor intensive. Once we have the manuscript finalized and photo selections completed, I become the liaison between the customer and the designer in creating the look of the book, making the text come alive. Over the years I have worked on over two hundred books.
Of the many things you do for the company, what are your favorites?
I am a reader by nature, so I do enjoy learning about our customers’ stories. And I really get to know our customers and their personal lives. I would say my most exciting project was working with Winston Churchill’s granddaughter on a book of his paintings. I was then able to attend an art show of his work and saw our book for sale. Was pretty exciting!
What do you think sets Donning apart from our competitors?
Donning is small enough to be able to offer as much assistance as a customer needs, but with Walsworth’s printing and production facility we can offer a variety of techniques to really make a book unique.
Tell me about your life outside of Donning.
I am a mom to two daughters with one son-in-law, one soon to be son-in-law, three stepchildren, and five grandchildren. I recently adopted a rescue puppy, who has really livened things up at my house.
What do you do for fun?
Of course I like to read and always have a book handy in case I get a free minute. I like to travel and am planning my third trip to Ireland this fall. I like to go to auctions and do some sewing and counted cross stitch. I have a big extended family and often get together with them. My real joy is spending time with my children and grandchildren.
What else should people know about you or Donning?
At Donning I really strive to make a book project as un-intimidating as possible. I want my authors and customers to feel at ease and thus able to ask any questions they might have. Donning’s designers are top-notch and create books that become one of a kind. It becomes a real team effort.
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