You have been working in public relations since you graduated from college. How did you know that was your career calling?
From a young age, I was always rounding up the troops. I was always bringing everyone together. In true Virgo fashion, I knew I needed to control the story, know everyone in the room, and be the one to always make it happen, whatever it was. I was drawn to Lizzie Grubman and her reality show, “POWER GIRLS,” and thought to myself… I can do that… I will do that… and then I set out into the world of PR. I started my career in public relations then got into television production and talent booking and since 2015, I have been at SiriusXM.
How do you decompress after a hectic work week?
Self-care is something I take VERY seriously. I learned the hard way. I experienced burnout from a young age. I realized the power of movement and how incredibly important it is to sweat, keep moving, challenge myself, and motivate myself. Pilates, kickboxing, and working out at Rumble and Orange Theory is my day-to-day routine. If I do not sweat, it will not be a good day. I believe in committing to friends… that is therapy. I believe in taking care of myself, my skin, my health, and most of all my mind.
YOU WORK WITH SOME OF THE BIGGEST NAMES IN MEDIA. IS IT EVER INTIMIDATING? HOW DO YOU HANDLE YOURSELF WHEN YOU’RE NERVOUS IN FRONT OF A BIG CELEBRITY?
Everyday is always so different, I am lucky to work with some of the greatest names in the business, from all areas of the industry. I think as you grow within the business you learn that nervous is not an option, you block it all out, and you make it the best experience you can for any talent. Everyone I work with in my eyes is considered an A Lister.
DOES SOMEONE HAVE TO HAVE THE “RIGHT PERSONALITY” TO WORK WITH TALENT? WHAT’S THE TOP QUALITY THAT’S A MUST?
I think the most important quality to possess in this business is empathy. It’s important to remember that yes this is a job and a career, but you should always be human first. Loyalty, honesty, and always keeping it real with people…. treat people like family.. and always make an impact.
HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN YOUR POSITIVE ENERGY ON A DAILY BASIS WHEN YOU’RE RUNNING AROUND ALMOST 18 HOURS EVERY DAY?
It can ALWAYS BE WORSE. Be a problem solver. I stay positive, because I know I always have an escape plan, as silly as that sounds. I work out every morning, and that helps me start my day off right. I have a tribe of people around me that uplift me, cheer me on, and honestly take the time to listen. They are there for me… and they truly help me get through it all. I also have an amazing boss that believes in me and who always encourages me.
YOUR GREEK HERITAGE PLAYS A BIG ROLE IN YOUR LIFE - HOW DOES IT HELP YOU FROM A SOCIAL PERSPECTIVE?
I wouldn’t change who I am and where I came from for anything. Being Greek and growing up in a Greek household is something that means so much to me. It has shaped who I am and how I work on a day-to-day basis. We were raised with intense compassion, love, and empathy for people that is beyond words. We are taught the power of hospitality, and how valuable it is to treat people as if they are your own family. I believe that is what allowed me to continue building and nurturing so many of the beautiful bonds in my life.
YOU’RE A NATURAL EXTROVERT BUT LET’S GET REAL FOR THOSE OF US WHO AREN’T… ARE THERE ANY TRICKS YOU CAN SHARE WHEN YOU’RE JUST NOT IN THE MOOD TO BE SOCIAL?
Humor is key. Flock to people that make you feel happy. Some days are hard, and life often throws curve balls… some days you just don’t feel it… but every day I learn to push myself, no matter how hard.
LET’S TALK FASHION - HOW MANY EVENTS DO YOU HAVE TO ATTEND IN ANY GIVEN WEEK?
My career was built on networking – and networking means being out every day and night, especially when I first started my career. Movie premieres, screenings, openings, and more… first impressions are everything and I express myself through my style. I like to purchase high and low-end items, and I like to make a statement with my outfits. I dress a little extra, sometimes eclectic, and I always like a pop of color or a wow factor.
WHAT’S YOUR CLOSET STAPLE OR GO-TO PIECE?
A white tank top, and a pair of jeans. I could wear jeans anywhere. Honestly If I could wear an Amina Muaddi shoe with every outfit I would.
YOU’RE GETTING MARRIED IN A MONTH! HOW MANY EVENTS HAVE YOU ALREADY HAD LEADING UP TO THE BIG DAY?
My friends like to call me the chaos coordinator, and like I said when we first started this interview… I like to bring people together. My sister-in-law and maid of honor planned me a killer party brunch, the music didn’t stop playing and the champagne didn’t stop flowing. I like to dance and let's just say I didn’t stop dancing, and I made sure no one sat for too long.
CAN YOU SHARE ANY TIPS ON HOW TO KEEP MAKEUP OR HAIR LOOKING FRESH SINCE YOU ALWAYS LOOK PERFECT IN EVERY ONE OF YOUR POSTS NO MATTER WHAT TIME OF DAY IT IS?
My biggest tip – carry a makeup sponge in your purse, and blot any excess oil throughout the day and night. Also, I always carry banana powder in my purse and blot it with my sponge. Always re-apply liner, and use dry shampoo to hold in a blowout.
WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE EVER GOTTEN?
The number one piece of advice I have ever gotten from Jacquie Precious who is the person responsible for my career: Never be part of the problem, always be part of the solution. Always be ten steps ahead, always educate yourself and always make a point to have the answer. Nothing is beneath you, always go the extra mile and always be grateful.
