Editor Interviews: 5 Questions with Annie Tomlin, Editorial Director for Rose Inc.

In our 5 Questions series, we catch up with our favorite editors and influencers to find out just what it takes to make them want to learn more about a business and consider it for coverage. 

Today we bring you the incredibly talented, Annie Tomlin, Editorial Director for one of our favorite new websites, Rose Inc. Read on for her pet-peeves, pitch tips and more!

Name: Annie Tomlin

City: Los Angeles

IG Handle: @annietomlin

What’s your biggest pet peeve when it comes to pitches you get?

Off-topic pitches that have nothing to do with our audience's interests. Not everything has to be a perfect fit, but if you're pitching, say, bug repellent or cooking utensils, it suggests that you haven't looked at our site at all.

Also, sometimes I'll receive complete stories written by a publicist, with the option to publish it. I don't know any editor who would do this—ever! Instead of spending time writing an article like that, craft a tailored pitch or incredible press kit that inspires editors to write their own stories.

What is the most useful piece of information for them to include?

The usual details (contact info, relevant dates, price, availability, et cetera). It's wonderful when the essential details are called out in an easy-to-find manner.

What do people often forget to mention or include when pitching you?

It's not necessary, but high-res images are a great asset for pitches. Include a link to a Dropbox with high-res images. Especially when I've been at deadline-driven publications, sometimes there's no time to wait around for an image to arrive. Save yourself the back-and-forth file-sending and make it easier on you and whoever you are pitching.

How often do you want to hear from people?

Once a month, typically. I appreciate publicists who send one thoughtful and relevant pitch every month or so. It shows that they're thinking about what kind of story would work for our readers and for their client. I see their name in my inbox and am happy to read the email and engage. I find that the best stories usually evolve from these messages as opposed to mass pitches.

What’s your preferred method of communication?

Email, always!