How to Write a Personalized PR Pitch That Journalists Actually Read

Plus, media opps and a story about getting uninvited to an event.

Happy Thursday!

I’ve had a lot of new subscribers in the past few weeks, thanks to my not-so-nice posts about the new HARO. If you want to know more about alternatives to HARO, Joni Sweet, who also writes for Forbes and Yahoo, shared some helpful advice on her latest Substack post. I highly suggest reading it.

Also, follow me on Instagram because I’m thirsty.

Real Simple Opps

Please use Substack + Article Title as the subject line. I may not be able to find your email otherwise. Also, don’t pitch me your experts. Please just have them answer the questions. Thanks!

Ways to Rethink Your Kitchen Storage for a Less Cluttered Look- NEED BY 4/28 AT 8:00 AM PST- VERY HARD DEADLINE

Would love to hear from pro organizers only.

Please do this in a "instead this, do that" format, with kitchen storage alternatives that will make your space look less cluttered. For example, it could be like, "Instead of a Knife Block, Use a Knife Strip" to suggest freeing up counter space, or ideas like putting spices in an organized drawer rather than in a visible spice rack, etc.

Uses for All Those Old Jars You Have Lying Around- NEED BY 5/1 AT 8:00 AM PST- VERY HARD DEADLINE

Would love to hear from pro organizers, DIY experts, and interior designers.

What are some clever, realistic uses for people to make use of old jars they probably have too many of? These should be pretty simple and attainable, not like super outlandish craft projects

Here’s Why You Need to Personalize Every Pitch

Yes, this sounds like a lot more work, but I promise, it’s worth it.

So, let’s get this party started with a quick story about something unpleasant that happened this week—and why that publicist has officially been blacklisted at least from my inbox and how it all relates to personalizing every pitch.

On Tuesday, I received an invitation to a dinner celebrating a collaboration between a beauty brand and a content creator. One of my best friends, a micro-influencer with a massive reach (the algorithm loves her), is obsessed with this creator. So I replied asking if I could bring a plus-one. I NEVER do this—especially for non-media guests—but I knew it would be a fun night.

Instead of a straightforward “no,” which I would’ve totally understood, I got this:
“How are you planning to cover the brand? I see you mostly cover interior design…”

I mean… She invited me. Did she not know this before sending the invite? That info is out there and pretty easy to find.

And not to be all Pretty Woman: but…

BIG MISTAKE