Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Vasquez.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Stitched Smile Publications started in 2016, as a way to help new writers of dark fiction find a safe home. The biggest issue I found as a writer myself was finding a reputable mentor who would help me find my footing. A lot of small publishers are not equipped to put the author first and to give them the quality of services needed to compete with larger publishers.
The beginning years were slippery as I researched the industry and learned how to format for all platforms (Amazon, CreateSpace, Ingram Spark) and while I put together a qualified team. If it weren’t for the talent of my interns-turned-permanent staff and their belief in our vision, I wouldn’t be here today. The second challenge was trying to run the business remotely since many staff and authors are spread out from Houston to the UK.
I’m proud of everything we have achieved as several of our first-time authors have won awards and esteemed nominations.
Has it been a smooth road?
It’s definitely been a bumpy road. Any business is when you’re first starting and have little to no budget. As I mentioned, the struggle of finding reputable editors and authors who are willing to share their knowledge was like seeking a needle in a haystack. I have high standards, a solid mission, and I wasn’t going to back down or settle for less.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Stitched Smile Publications – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Mostly we are known for our production of dark fiction leaning towards “horror,” but we’re breaking through the stigma associated with the genre. Horror is vast and means something a little different to each individual reader.
Many authors like to create hybrid tales, mixing Fantasy with Horror, or Science Fiction with Horror. It’s not a new thing, but we pride ourselves on offering a more diverse selection with deeper plots. It’s not all about gore or slasher stories. Horror involves crime, paranormal, science fiction, even poetry.
I think what sets us apart is our family atmosphere. We do a lot of things together outside of the “work,” and we always put the author first. We teach, we mentor, and we help authors build their brand from the first word to the last.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
Houston is so diverse. I love how simple it is living here. I’m from Chicago originally where it is much harder to gain the trust of your client. Here, people are more open to others when they establish a connection and genuine intent. I love networking, and I love the support of small businesses. Outside of business, I love the small town living in a big city.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.stitchedsmilepublications.com
- Phone: 346-843-2472
- Email: vasquez@stitchedsmilepublications.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stitchedsmilepublications/
- Twitter: @houseofstitched
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/stitchedbooks/
Image Credit:
Catherine Chisum
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