MY SERVICES: Writing “Pen for Hire” and portfolio Every good editor should first be a good writer. I was a writer long before I turned to editing; and this gave me the natural feel for the English language, and the flair for proper expression, that's necessary for helping other talented writers to achieve their best. My professional writing falls into two categories:

What They’re Saying: “I'm a pretty good writer, but I often feel frustrated because I haven't quite managed to say what I really want. Antonia has this almost uncanny ability to reach into my mind, pluck out what I'd MEANT to say, and make my story look just the way I'd envisioned.” Andrew Waitman, businessman and creative writer

• “Skilled Pen For Hire”: material created at the behest of a business or organization, following its guidelines for content, tone, length and purpose.
• Journalism: stories I wrote for publication – often on offbeat and interesting topics, and usually showcasing my own quirky personality.

“Skilled Pen For Hire”: Contract Writing

As a journeyman writer, I can write quality copy for your report, publication, web site, speech, mission statement, magazine, or whatever. I’ve spent the last decade handling communications responsibilities such as:

• creating content for a variety of media and clients
• working with subject experts in order to research written material
• collating text from several contributors to provide a “common look and feel”
• forging relationships with clients
• liaising with other industry professionals
• managing multiple projects
• meeting tight deadlines.

Journalism: Writing Portfolio

My journalism work is always competent, and often inspired. Over the last twenty years, I’ve amassed a portfolio of several hundred features, columns, articles and stories. My subjects cover a wide variety of “lifestyle” topics such as arts, entertainment, design, homes, health, business, environment, fashion and travel.

My work has appeared in national publications such as the National Post, the Globe and Mail, and Maclean’s; and in local ones such as the Ottawa Citizen newspaper and the Ottawa Magazine family, including Ottawa Interiors. I’ve also written and recorded several essays for CBC Radio.

Not all these works can be shared here – both for copyright reasons, and because some are still hopefully seeking reprint markets. Still, here are a select few for your reading pleasure.

With Heart, Head And Hips

His rhythm as irrepressible as his hair, Sherwood Lumsden writes great lyrics – and honky-tonk music you can’t sit still to. HTML / PDF

Divide and Conquer

It may lack sex appeal, but severance is the “in” operation for many homeowners. HTML / PDF

Out On A Limb

The launch of the new women’s magazine Elm Street has the world of Canadian journalism buzzing – and readers wondering what Stevie Cameron will deliver.
HTML / PDF

Taken By The Wind

With a roar of flame the balloon, no longer earthbound, becomes a creature of the air – slipping those surly bonds of earth with surprising speed. HTML / PDF

The Importance of Being Edited

When freelance editors complain about the sorry state of commercial language, we're also bemoaning the business not landed. HTML / PDF

Not Under My Back Porch

“Vacant: desirable attic residence, perfect for family of small animals. Plenty of wood, wires, and insulation to chew on. Convenient entrance through roof vent. Available in time for winter.” HTML / PDF