photo by Isa Love

My name is Melissa Balmer. I'm a public relations, social marketing and marketing consultant specializing in creatively connecting people, ideas, services, and movements via both traditional and social media placement. I take a very creative approach to working with my clients. My goal is to bring the spirit of "Maitri" (the Buddhist term for unconditional friendliness) to your experience of working with me.

First, I can help you make sure that the look, feel, and manner of your marketing/public relations/social media approach for your business makes sense for what you want to accomplish. If it doesn't we can fine tune it. If you're at the very beginning (a very good place to start) we can start from scratch!

Secondly, I can help you get the word out to the right places in smart, stylish and cost effective ways all with measurable results.

I specialize in inspired story telling, cross-pollination, and a custom 360 degree approach that takes into account each particular client's needs, objectives and opportunities. Yes, I understand the power and positive application of social media, I've been at it for over ten years as a popular blogger, guest blogger, and active participant in the social media conversation.

Professionally I've served as the editor and sittings editor/stylist for Long Beach Magazine, and written for a number of local and online publications. I have placed clients in media outlets such as Los Angeles Magazine, KABC Channel 7 News, Univision, KCET, MTV, Modern Bride, Special Events Magazine, The Orange County Register, The Daily Breeze, KPCC, The Press Telegram, the Long Beach Business Journal, The Gazettes and more.

I create websites and marketing materials for rebranding, advise on art direction and selection on creatives (graphic designers, photographrs and talent), advise on and ghost write blogs and articles, launch and maintain social media campaigns, create and distribute email newsletters, create and distribute press releases, pitch media placement, and conceive of and organize creative events to promote your idea, service or business.

I am available for individual coaching, teaching classes for business, civic, and non profit organizations, and contract work as an "in house" publicist. You can reach me via email at balmer64 (at) yahoo (dot) com or call me at (562) 612-0197.