HERE’S MY
About story
Your worries about writing skills shouldn’t stand in the way.
Let’s get to the heart of your writing.
My name’s Sara Donaldson, I’m an editor and writer, and I help authors, and small and medium-sized independent businesses (SMEs) communicate effectively.
I’m passionate about bringing history and art to life – I’m also a professional genealogist!
Every business has a story, and every writer needs a good editor. I’m here to help you tell your story.
01.
WHERE IT STARTED
HISTORY AND WORDS
I was an academic librarian, and after moving north (and training) set up as a professional genealogist. I like to don my Sherlock hat and get stuck into some lovely research, but after more training in editing and indexing I realised that both history and words really are my thing. That was over 20 years ago.
When we work together:
- I’ll help you communicate effectively – in a way that fits your unique voice.
- We can see what works and what doesn’t.
- You’ll be supported by a highly trained professional.
- You’ll get that sense of achievement for a job well done.
Why waste time struggling or wondering if you’ve got it right?
Words are my business, and I’m here to help you concentrate on your business.
02.
ONE THING LED TO ANOTHER
I get you
Over the years I’ve not only researched, edited and indexed – I ended up becoming a writer myself. I’ve ghostwritten, written content for books (and helped put them together), and written for websites and businesses. I’ve worked with high profile companies and people, and with those just starting out. As an editor and a writer, I can see things from both sides. I get you!
Don’t think you need to leave it long before you seek professional help, it’s really not as complicated or scary as you think.
I became a writer myself
I see things from both sides
03.
WHICH BRINGS US TO NOW
Fast forward
I’m an Advanced Professional Member of CIEP (the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading), I’m a tutor for the CIEP, and trained in copywriting and creative writing. I help businesses and authors get their story out there, without stressing about the commas. I’ve worked with the multi award-winning Dunnet Bay Distillers and high profile companies through my work with Lily and Ferry Publications. I’m lucky to work with amazing people doing what I love, and I could work with you.
Knowing you’ve done the best for your project
makes you feel …
great!
WORDS MATTER
You run a business, but you’re not a writer
Don’t worry! Editing will get your writing into shape, or I can write your content for you. We’ll work closely together to get everything right.
Business services include –
- Helping you by writing or editing brochures, flyers and other business materials
- Helping you assess and write your business book
- Editing or proofreading your business book
You’ve written a book but need to make sure that your writing is correct
Editing or proofreading your book will get it ready for your readership. I’m highly skilled and will help you keep your authorial voice, while ensuring your writing meets the highest standards of editorial excellence.
Author services include –
- Copyediting or proofreading your book or story
- Assessing your manuscript and helping you move forward
My qualifications
- Advanced Professional Member of the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP)
- Tutor for the CIEP
- Member of ProCopywriters (the alliance of commercial writers)
- DigitalMarketer Search Marketing Specialist
- DigitalMarketer Direct-Response Copywriting Specialist
- Graduate of the Andy Maslen Copywriting Academy
- First-class Honours Degree in English Literature and Creative Writing
- 2:1 Honours Degree in Librarianship & Information Studies
Why work with me?
- I specialise in helping UK authors and businesses write about art, heritage and history.
- I write and edit so you don’t have to.
- Like you, I believe in the personal touch in business (and if you’re an author, you’ll know – it’s a business as well as a passion).
- I’m a Yorkshire lass based in the beautiful far north of Scotland – looking out of my living room window I can see the Orkneys, when it’s not raining or they’re shrouded in mist.
MEET THE
TEAM
We all want to know who we are working with, so ‘Hi! I’m Sara’
I’m a team of one, so you’ll be working directly with me.
- I’m proud to have written for, compiled and edited Lily Publication’s best-selling All Round Guide to the Isle of Man and their Island Kitchen cookery books.
- I’ve worked with Cunard, P&O, Irish Ferries, Brittany Ferries and NorthLink (to name a few) through Ferry Publications, Europe’s leading publisher in the specialist field of ferry, cruise, ro-ro and the high-speed ferry industry. I know my way around maritime subjects – hopefully my barge-owner great-great grandad would be pleased.
- Over the years I’ve worked with publishers and self-publishing authors, as well as businesses and societies.
SARA
Addicted to history, art and the theatre
When I’m not working you can find me in my local theatre – producing, working behind the scenes, helping with workshops for around 90 kids on a Friday night, and generally having fun.
When I’m not at the theatre I’ll probably be looking through, or researching, one of my collection of antique photograph albums. Or working through my Art History degree.
DAisy and minnie
Sisters who love to play, snack and sleep.
Since joining ‘The Team’ the girls have proven invaluable. They are expert time keepers, know the value of a good snack and make sure the boss doesn’t sit for too long.
Great writers are seldom overscrupulous in the arrangement of their words
NOT QUITE CHARLES DICKENS
READY TO
CONNECT?
Why bother working with an editor or copywriter?
When you concentrate on your business (yes, even you authors are running a business!) it’s hard to spot when words go wrong. We all get too close to our content and miss those little things (and sometimes big things) that others will pick up on.
Investing in your writing is worth the effort. It shows the world you’re proud of your creation and want to share it with them.
Oh, one more thing about me … I have blue hair.
Ready to work with me?
Click the button below to email.
