Meet Brenna Malmberg | Snail Mail Artist, Content Creator and Marketing Manager

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brenna Malmberg and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brenna, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
We don’t just sit around and draw all day. Sure, we own lots of art supplies and tools that go into making our final creative product, but we also have to plan, send emails, figure out costs, advertise, network … that list goes on and on. We are small business owners who have to do all the same things as any small business. Do we wish we could just sit around and create all day? Obviously. But that’s not realistic, especially when you’re starting out and trying to establish yourself and your brand.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career has twisted and turned many times, but the one consistent component has always been content creation. I’ve been a graphic designer, copywriter, editor, journalist, social media manager and marketing professional. At each stop along the way, I had to figure out how to use my journalism background to tell a story, whether that was through graphics for a railroad newsletter or a story about bathrooms to magazines for kid projects or marketing campaigns for snail mail. I’ve also been lucky to create and sell my work in the form of handwritten cards and social media content.

What sets me apart from others in the field is that I do a little bit of everything. I can wear many hats and follow a project through from start to finish. I love to work with others who specialize in a skillset, but that’s not always possible because of time or budget constraints, and that’s where a jack-of-all-trades professional like myself can be the perfect person for the job. I became that person by constantly trying and learning new skills, and being open to new roles and opportunities.

The path has not always been easy. You can feel inadequate in a room with specialized people, but at the end of the day, all you can do it give it your best go and get the job done. Many times, your knowledge of different professional areas can make your project stand out. Plus, you’re a great team member because you understand the skills everyone brings to the table.

My work and brand today are a combination of all my previous experiences. I currently specialize in snail mail art and marketing services for creative business and brands. I’ve leaned into my interests and life, and my professional work is a reflection of that.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
It’s San Diego, so you have lots of options. But if my bestie is in town, we are doing to explore nature, relax and keep the kids entertained (because they are obviously along for the ride). First stop is going to be the beach. I know, it’s not the most out-of-the-box idea, but the beach will forever be my favorite part of San Diego. Scripps Beach with the pier, surfing and views is my go-to beach. It’s great for the whole family, and you can always just walk down the beach to La Jolla Shores if you absolutely need anything. Next, the San Diego Zoo is another place that’s great for the whole crew. You’ve got so many options on which creatures to see, and the Skyfari is a great way to see all of downtown San Diego. For the rest of the time, as long as it’s not too hot, we might go on a hike, such as the classic Potato Chip Rock hike, or visit another beach or cliffside view, such as Sunset Cliffs. For food, Rubio’s and Luna Grill are just too tasty and convenient, and local. Then, Karl Strauss Brewing Company for a nice, relaxing night out (and some mac ‘n’ cheese!).

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without my family, friends, Punkpost community and my Instagram friends. My friends and family have supported my artistic hobbies and work my entire life. They’re okay with my millionth pen purchase and come to me first for their creative projects. Secondly, the Punkpost community was an important part of growing my creative and marketing skills. I worked as a handwriting artist and marketing manager for almost eight years before the business closed this summer. I cannot thank Lex enough for giving the chance to create and promote for the snail mail brand for so many years. Plus, the community of handwriting artists are the most supportive people, even though I have met very few of them in real life. They share tips, cheer you on and give you the confidence to create. I am so lucky to have them and so many other encouraging people just a tap away on Instagram.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brennamedia/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brennamedia/