In 2006, Laura Kelsey was tired of the dismal street view from her urban apartment and was ready for a change. Laura had just self-published a compilation of poetry; she found the publishing process inspiring and thought about turning her “hobby” into a career.

“The book is called Passion before Perfection because I wrote every day of my life but had no formal training."

Understanding that poems weren't about to pay the bills, Laura applied and was accepted into Print Futures: Professional Writing Program at Douglas College. During the program, which included technical editing, writing for the web and graphic design, Laura was assistant editor of the Other Press; reporter at the Pitt Meadows-Maple Ridge Times; and feature performer/poet at World Poetry events in Vancouver.

Upon completion of the diploma program in 2008, she was awarded a journalism scholarship from the B.C. Yukon Community Newspaper Association and moved to 100 Mile House to work as editor for the Free Press; and, later on, the Cariboo Advisor in Williams Lake.

“You meet a lot of people when you're involved in journalism – and you also get to have some really unique experiences. A newspaper has a huge capacity to help people and it felt pretty good when I could contribute to something positive in the community.”

After gathering experience through newspapers and freelance work, Laura started Words & More Media in 2010 with help from Community Futures Cariboo-Chilcotin. Her home-based business offers writing, editing and graphic design services to South Cariboo and online clients.

So far, Words & More has provided everything from press releases and newsletters to websites and ad copy for businesses, organizations and individuals in the community at reasonable costs. Examples and past projects can be read and viewed at www.wordsmore.com or on the Words & More blog.

If your project involves words, images or art, contact Words & More at laura@wordsmore.com.

Passion before Perfection is available at Nuthatch Books and other small book stores across B.C.;
or order a copy from Laura, laura@wordsmore.com.