Neada Jane
Neada Jane
Brand & Partnerships Strategist / Writer / Editor
Venice Beach, CA
www.wethefold.com
Instagram @neadajane
WHAT DO YOU DO?
“I work with companies to define who they are, conceptualize their brand, and share their story in meaningful ways.”
I work with companies to define who they are, conceptualize their brand, and share their story in meaningful ways. It all begins with core values, launch strategy and image direction - creating the most impactful and longterm solutions to building and elevating brands in fashion and/or technology. I specialize in brand partnerships; creating unique opportunities for brands to collaborate in ways that bolster brand recognition and profitability.
Some days I write and edit. You can find my articles on fashion, beauty, culture, and technology in publications all over the world. Occasionally, I wield those skills for brands, too.
WHAT STEPS DID YOU TAKE TO GET WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
When I first landed in New York, I worked at VICE. Executing their partnership with Intel, and the many unique and memorable ways we did that, was really where it all began. I then moved into fashion, with an emphasis on partnerships for fashion weeks around the world - empowering emerging designers through corporate sponsorship with creative execution. I also worked as Managing Editor at Garance Doré, getting my fill of daily writing and editing, before finally going out on my own.
FOR OTHER PEOPLE IN YOUR FIELD, WHAT DO THEY USUALLY LACK?
It's one thing to know what a cool brand looks like, and another thing to help a brand distinguish itself to a realm of both creative vision and real profitability. I have a little more than just the creative element; I also understand business needs and what the steps are to merge the two, uncompromising on either side.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
I am really focused on uniting my talents and networks in fashion and technology together; working with companies on both sides to speak to one another's audiences in relatable terms to help all involved grow (including me!).
WHAT'S YOUR STYLE/PERSPECTIVE/TASTE? DO YOU HAVE A PROJECT THAT REPRESENTS THIS?
Unfalteringly cool in the most editorial sense, presented in a truly relatable way. One thing I have learned: if you do what everyone else is doing, you will never distinguish yourself in the longterm. This is truer for brands than most. There's always space for a new perspective, but that doesn't mean you can't have a nod to what the world wants right now.
WE ARE ALL SLASHIES WITH MULTIPLE SKILLS, WHICH ONE DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OFTEN?
Strategic partnerships and image direction are my ultimate strengths, and I just want to go all the way with those two. They get me up in the morning.
WHAT IS FRUSTRATING YOU RIGHT NOW?
If there were more hours in the day, I would love to use that time diving deep into the world of augmented reality. It's the future, for every industry.
IF YOU COULD HIRE SOMEONE FOR $20/HOUR, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE THEM DO TO MAKE YOUR DAY EASIER?
Invoicing! Email management! Scheduling! All of the exciting things, I swear.
LET'S BRING OUT THE TIME MACHINE. WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD HAVE TOLD YOURSELF, WHEN, AND WHY?
"Only work on projects that truly excite and inspire you." That's what I tell myself every day. It's a cheesy line, but an important choice.
IF YOU COULD TALK TO AN EXPERT TO GAIN MORE INSIGHT ON SOMETHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE ABOUT?
"What were the pivotal steps and necessary assets it took to accelerate or grow your career?" Now that's a conversation starter.
WHAT KIND OF OPPORTUNITIES/PROJECTS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
Fashion intersecting with technology. Technology intersecting with culture. Culture intersecting with fashion. And always a challenge.
WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL CLIENT?
Clients who love their brand, and are willing to work with me to do what is best to see their brand grow.
WHAT IS YOUR RATE?
For general consulting, I work on retainer or hourly rate based upon scope of work. Brand partnerships either fall under that general scope of work, or happy to work on a commission - happy to put my money where my mouth is on this!
HOW SHOULD SOMEONE APPROACH YOU ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER?
Just say hello, shoot me an email! I prefer to jump on a call or meet in person as early as possible in the conversation, to get a good sense of the direction and needs of the work.
HOW DO YOU STAY CREATIVE?
Read. Write. Constantly hunt for inspiration.
This member profile was originally published in August 2016.