Exploring Life & Business with Kelsey Merritt-Roa of Woo Girl Public Relations

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelsey Merritt-Roa

Hi Kelsey, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I began my career as a recording artist and had a pretty prolific career in the recording industry. I toured with Radio Disney, opened for the Jonas Brothers on some of their first shows, started a band, and was on the Vans Warped Tour for 6 consecutive Summers. When I eventually made the move to Nashville, I took a part-time job at a publishing company called Post Hill Press in their PR department. I was fortunate to get my hands on some very exciting best-selling book campaigns early on in my PR career. After two years, with the company, I decided to launch my own Public Relations company, Woo Girl Public Relations, which I named after the bustling Nashville downtown scene.
I loved music (still do!) and still play once a week or so at Tootsies Orchid Lounge with The Marie Wise Hawkins band in Nashville.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it has not. The similarity between music and the PR business is that they are both very results-driven businesses and you have to be willing to hustle at both. You must continuously challenge yourself to stay motivated each day!

The biggest challenge I have faced so far is juggling motherhood with my career. In 2022, I had my precious daughter, Baby Luna. She is the greatest gift! I think it is often overlooked how challenging, tiring and all-consuming motherhood is. I think we do a great disservice to women by telling them they can “have it all”, all at once. It is not easy to manage being an entrepreneur and a mom at the same time. You often feel like you are failing in some aspects of either your career, personal life or both.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Woo Girl Public Relations is a Nashville-based publicity firm with an emphasis on the book publishing industry
Our main focus is media booking, event booking, social media and marketing support for authors and public figures.

I have an amazing team:

Melissa Smith is an expert publicist with a passion for promoting literature and media. Originally from SoCal, Melissa’s roots run deep in the heart of conservative counter-culture. With experience at Post Hill Press and The Daily Wire, Melissa has played a key role in projects ranging from booking high-profile interviews to spearheading influencer campaigns. She has been instrumental in the success of notable projects such as Convicting a Murderer, Bentkey, and Lady Ballers. Melissa’s portfolio includes Andrew Klavan’s USA Today Bestseller House of Love and Death, Faith Moore’s Christmas Karol, Thomas J. Baker’s The Fall of the FBI, and John Paul Mac Isaac’s American Injustice.An avid reader and devotee of British mystery shows, Melissa also enjoys spending time with family, taking leisurely nature walks, and whipping up comforting dishes in the kitchen.

Linda Shive is an expert administrator, office manager, and former small business owner which makes her the ultimate PR assistant. During her decades-long career as an entrepreneur, she has owned and managed a number of retail businesses such as bookstores, and the famous Li-Lac Chocolates in New York City. When she isn’t keeping Kelsey and clients organized, she enjoys the beach on Marco Island, wine and hangin’ with her cat Frosty Cupcake.

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
I have learned that you have to be willing to pivot, be flexible and above all: be a critical thinker! I think Covid made a lot of people realize they had to learn more marketable skills to be successful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.woogirlpr.com
• Instagram: @kelsey_chaos