My One Year Anniversary at Laurel Mercantile
Today marks one year that I’ve worked for Laurel Mercantile Co. as the Content Strategist/LMCo. Journal writer. It’s crazy to think that it’s already been that long!
In one year, I’ve shared more about my hometown than ever before. I’ve had the honor to write stories about Miss Dot’s famous pound cake recipe, the importance of American-Made products and the people who make them, the library, my favorite bookstore, local non-profits, famous African-American Laurelites, and the influx of artists flooding Laurel.
I’ve had the chance to share touching Home Town stories, like the Li family’s home renovation for their parents who were first generation immigrants in the 1970s. I interviewed the Steinwinder’s, a young couple who lived in China for a few years and decided to begin their own tea farm back home in Laurel, Mississippi.
I’ve toured magical mansions that line the famous historic avenues and listened to homeowners share fond stories of their families and the generations that lived there before them.
Though I’ve lived in Laurel almost all of my life, this job has given me the opportunity to see it through a new lens. Laurel’s history is more diverse than any stereotype or generic label that could be thrown on a south Mississippi town. Its history is full of strong-minded entrepreneurs and creators who dared to dream wildly in its founding.
I’ve listened to neighbors share how their community has rallied together to care for those whose homes were destroyed by tornadoes and hurricanes. I’ve also been able to share some of Erin and Ben’s biggest news, like the birth of their two girls. (Helen was born on my birthday 4 years ago!)
After writing almost 156 blog posts this year, I’m proud to see how my writing abilities have grown and my interviewer skills have improved. I still have a long ways to go, but I’m so thankful for all that I’ve learned so far.
Here’s to learning more!