Stephanie Marie McKinley
i’m stephanie
lets get to know each other
who
i am
For longer than I can even remember, I have been a lover of stories. The biggest tantrums I threw as a child were when I would beg for just one more book before bedtime. I taught myself to read at an extremely young age, and I haven’t stopped reading since.

As a teenager, I believed there was only one career path for me as a reader and writer: English teacher. But once I was in college, I realized that my English degree was opening up way more possibilities, and working in publishing quickly became my dream job.
Blanket, Mug
Laptop, YA Books
where
i’ve been
I started my career as a digital marketing assistant for Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group, where I managed campaigns for young adult, middle grade, and picture books, handling social media, blog and newsletter content, website development, and video production. I then worked as a senior digital developer at Penguin Random House, where I played a huge role in launching Underlined, Random House Children’s Books’ young adult community, by defining strategy, managing and contributing to website design and development, and overseeing email marketing.

Publishing was my dream job, but unfortunately, New York was not my dream city. After spending months creating a massive spreadsheet about cities all over the country, my husband and I decided to relocate to Charlotte, NC. We moved in January 2019, and we love Charlotte for its food scene, walkable neighborhoods, easy airport access, and so much more.
where
i am now
Now, I work as a freelance writer for The Everygirl and a director of communications for Arts+. I love when my words lead someone to a book, product, habit, art class, or music lesson that brings them joy.

And because I love nothing more than words and storytelling, I am also an aspiring author.
Big Magic, Notebook, Mug, Glasses
fun
facts
  • I was born on Christmas Day.
  • I am an unapologetic Taylor Swift fan.
  • I am a firm believer in the Oxford Comma.
  • I like cooking just as much as I like going out to eat.
  • I do not drink coffee.
  • I can always be found under a blanket.
Books
Mug, Planner, Notebook

lets connect

Do you have a story idea that I might be a fit for? I would love to work with you! Please email me at stephanie@stephaniemmckinley.com to get in touch.

Looking for a book recommendation? Or a good place to eat in Charlotte? Join me on Instagram @stephaniemmckinley.

Have something else in mind? Please fill out the form below. I look forward to hearing from you!