09-23-2018
Gift Box Business Welcomes Fall Marketing Intern Peta-Gaye Cruz // Intern Intro
FILED IN: Behind-the-Scenes, Intern Intro, M&G Happenings
Posted By: Jamie Kutchman, Founder
We get attached to our interns around here so naturally we're sad when they're with us for an entire semester and then have to leave us. (For a trip down memory lane of interns who have gone through our program, visit here.) But on the flip side, we're equally as excited to welcome new interns into the mix! (In fact we're already accepting applications for Spring 2019!) But in the meantime, I can't wait to introduce you guys to our Fall 2018 intern Peta. She's an MBA student, military wife (with 5 moves under her belt in the last 7 years!!), mother of two boys and already feels like family to us here at Studio M&G. We're showing her the ins and outs of small business with a special focus on all things marketing...social media, blogging, email marketing, Google analytics, and more!
Without further adieu, let's hear from Peta in her own words...
Tell us a little about yourself!
Hey there! I’m Peta-Gaye Cruz; most folks call me Peta (like the animal organization). I’m in my final year at Indiana University where I’m pursuing my MBA, I can see the light! I was born and raised on the beautiful island of Jamaica, and am a self-proclaimed sunshine baby. Beach trip anyone? My husband is in the army, and together with our two sons, we have moved 5 times in the last 7 years!
What are you most excited about?
I’m really excited to help M&G grow their brand, whether that’s through analyzing analytics to make strategic decisions or developing content to increase following. It’s inspiring to see Jamie killing it as a girl boss, and successfully running an all-woman small business. I feel fortunate to have an opportunity to be a part of that. And I get to put together pretty things tied up in a bow, how could I not be excited?
Where have you worked in the past and how do you think it will benefit you in your new position with M&G?
Once upon a time, I founded and owned a small business that specialized in custom wedding invitations. That experience puts me in a position to understand the time and dedication that goes into running a small business, and how to creatively make the most impact with limited resources.
I am currently part of a project through my school’s Consulting Association to develop a growth strategy for a small business e-retailer. I think some of the strategies I’m learning and incorporating could translate well to supplementing M&G’s own plan for growth.
What about M&G made you want to apply for the internship?
Confession time: I’ve been following M&G on Instagram for a few years now. M&G is not just about a pretty picture on social media; there is an authenticity that shines through, which I find refreshing. It’s also evident that Jamie and her team are passionate about ensuring an amazing experience for their client every single time; I really admire that. When I saw the internship opportunity posted to Instagram, and researched the details on the website, I just knew I had to apply. What did I have to lose? The worst Jamie could do was say no. I’m glad she didn’t!
What’s the best gift you’ve ever given? And received?
It wasn’t a tangible gift, but for my husband’s birthday a few years ago, I organized a surprise party, and coordinated with several of his family members, whom he hadn’t seen in ages, to fly in from overseas. There were some hilarious snags along the way that almost spoiled the surprise, but we kept it together long enough (barely!) to give the hubby a celebration he won’t soon forget.
I’ve gotten some incredible gifts over the years. Recently though, the hubby and I have started sharing experiences with each other in lieu of giving gifts. There are too many to pick just one, so I’ll share our latest adventure: for my last birthday, he arranged for us to do a treetop obstacle course challenge. Not for the faint of heart, but so much fun!
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself as a consultant, developing and implementing strategies for organizations with various business needs. However, I know that life rarely goes according to plan. I’m open to opportunities that may not necessarily fit this mold, but still provide me with challenges that are the most intriguing to me: those centered around marketing, and the creativity that accompanies entrepreneurship.
Please join us in giving Peta a warm welcome. You'll be seeing more of her on our Instagram Stories and even on our Youtube channel as we progress through the fall semester so stay tuned!
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