Fresh Start

The launch of my new website, merylsiegman.com, represents not so much a reinvention of myself but rather my coming full circle to an early passion, writing. As a child I was fascinated with words and language. I had my first French lessons as a toddler and began writing poetry and novels in grade school. The first one, which I also illustrated, was hilariously entitled “The Ironeries of Life.” I typed single-space on a blue Olivetti typewriter, so overused that its silver handle finally fell off and the carriage had to be pushed back manually at the end of each sentence. I became enthralled with ancient Greek in high school, spending hours translating “Medea” in my spare time. I majored in English Literature at Middlebury College, with a minor in French translation. After attending law school and then practicing law in Vermont for five years, I joined the family leather business and suddenly found myself living in Italy. I immediately took to Italian. Total immersion in the language and culture helped me become fluent very quickly. After returning to the U.S. I launched Cortina Leathers, which I ran for the next thirty years, learning practically everything there is to know about the A&D industry. My itch to write laid dormant, although I was responsible for all of Cortina’s content, including its websites, marketing collateral, media kits, product descriptions and sales content.

Fast forward to 2016, when, after selling the company and working for its purchasers for two years, I suddenly became a free agent. I began to take on consulting clients as well as writing projects, and now, in 2020 as summer approaches, I am happy and grateful to be doing both, especially during this very challenging time. While I have written for a wide range of clients, my specialty is the interior design industry. I am drafting everything from web content to full-length magazine articles, as well as blogs, product and project descriptions, bios and press releases. In addition to writing and editing, I am also advising some my clients in my capacity as a business consultant. Please take a look at my new website to learn more about my services and clients, and to view my portfolio. And check out my new Instagram page. Stay well, stay strong and stay safe!