tradeshows and networking to form deep relationships,” Kelley says. “It also offers an opportunity to give back. I truly believe that if you are going to be in the industry and profit from it, you should give back to it.” While Kelley is passionate about promos, she says acting is her first love. “If had to do it all over again—I know that’s a cliché—I would have definitely chosen the acting route. I would have put my all into it.” But Kelley says the promo industry keeps her motivated. “What inspired and what continues to inspire me are all the really smart, creative people in this industry. There are a lot. You wouldn’t know it unless you’re in the industry. Also, when I am out at an event and I see promos in use, it makes my heart smile.” PPB spoke with Kelley to learn more about how she stays inspired. I hope to see the industry evolve by… adding more diversity. As a Black woman who’s been in this industry full-time for 18 years, I would really like to see more minorities, especially African Americans, in this industry. We go to a lot of tradeshows, especially The PPAI Expo, and there’s just not a lot of us. I think it’s a matter of exposure and bringing young people into the industry. They need to see what it’s about and how you can grow and build a really great business from it. I’d also like to see industry continue to educate and promote ourselves as true professionals. There’s still a low bar to get into our industry, but it takes hard work to actually stay and thrive here, and part of that is education and positioning yourself as a professional. I’d like to see more people grab on to that. Lastly, to quote Danny Rosin, I would like us to continue to focus on keeping promos out of the “brandfill.” I love that word—thank you, Danny. We can do that by teaching our clients how to properly use promos and helping them make decisions that turn giveaways into gifts. I achieve a work/life balance by… making time to enjoy the little things. I love spending time with my first little grandson. He’s 8 months. I call him the cutest person in the room. I watch movies and documentaries with my husband— that’s how we relax in the evening. I also power walk with my best friend, Phyllis. Also, spending time with my little dog, Pepper, helps to relieve the stress of the day. I work a lot, even on the weekends. But when I do make time for myself, I feel better and ready to tackle the next challenge. Valdez is an associate editor at PPAI. PPAI: 111248 | ASI: 35375 | SAGE: 50327 | UPIC: ACCENTS | DC:101273 www.americanaccents.com 888.287.7883 PERFECT FOR... ѭ 9WFIJ XMT\X ѭ <JIINSLX ѭ 2ZXNH KJXYN[FQX ѭ (TWUTWFYJ J[JSYX ѭ FSI RTWJ Colored Frost Flex™ Cups ѭAvailable in multiple colors ѭUnique, translucent, textured surface ѭIdeal for places where glass is prohibited ѭMultiple print methods available ѭMade & printed in the USA ѭFlexible shatterproof plastic 25 piece minimums! | MAY 2022 | 81 CONNECT
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