CURRICULUM VITAE
Kim St. Ours
Professional Word Wrangler
I was one of the lucky ones who always knew what I wanted to be when I grew up. When I was in the 5th grade I announced to my family that I was going to be a writer, and after that it was just a matter of figuring out what kind of writer I was going to be. After testing the waters in college with journalism, creative writing and public relations, I found my true love in advertising, and that's been my passion ever since.
I've spent many years on the agency side, as well as more than 20 years working full time as a freelancer. Clients run the gamut from travel to technology, fashion to finance, and I've worked in media spanning billboards, brochures and blog posts. I cut my teeth in direct marketing, which means that no matter what the assignment, I always keep my eye on the prize, whether that's putting butts in boats or coming up with a dynamic tagline that succinctly captures the essence of your brand.
My Fortes
What sets me apart? Versatility, for one. I can change voice to discuss luxury residence clubs one day and commercial marine engines the next, explain complex technologies or tug at the heartstrings with a fundraising appeal. I also deliver more copy options because in my world, there's always more than one way to solve a problem and you're the one who knows your product and audience best.
While I can tackle just about any copywriting need, I'm particularly adept at long-copy assignments that require strategic chops and original research. Blog posts, beefy brochures and editorial articles? You're singing the song of my people.
Work Experience
August 1998 - Present
Freelance Writer
Read testimonials.
Evans Kraft/Publicis, Boise
Associate Creative Director
October 1996 - August 1998
"She's a bloody genius!"
--George Parker, Creative Director
CF2GS Marketing/True North/FCB, Seattle
Senior Copywriter
July 1991 - September 1996
"Kim is an amazingly prolific writer. Not only does she generate lots of ideas, but there are many, many good ones. Kim is a very strong writer's writer (i.e. able to write cohesively on damn near any arcane subject). I have no hesitation that she will give me what's needed, even if she's working in new territory."
--Cynthia Hartwig, Creative Director, February 1994-1998
"You're the most facile writer I've ever had the pleasure of working with."
--Sally Wilson, Creative Director, 1991-1993
Ogilvy & Mather Direct/West, Seattle
Senior Copywriter
December 1990 - July 1991
"You're doing a terrific job. We consider you a 'must keep' in this organization."
--Jim Consolantis, Creative Director
Herring/Newman Advertising, Seattle
Copywriter
April 1987 - December 1990
"Kim has the ability to write better copy than anyone else in this agency."
--Phil Herring, President
Christian Brann Ltd., Cirencester, England
Copywriter
August - September 1989
I was chosen to spend a month working at this agency as part of a work exchange program.
Education
University of Washington
B.A.
Washington State University
Undergrad