Freelance Writer & Editor
Helping connect the dots between people, their stories and the communities they inspire
Emily O’Brien is a freelance writer and editor who helps architects and creatives tell better stories—whether that’s elevating portfolios, ghostwriting blogs or bringing homes to life on the page.
She’s the former senior editor of SUCCESS magazine, where she covered mindset, business and high-performance living. Her work spans high-end lifestyle, personal development and shelter publications, with bylines in Good Housekeeping, 5280 Home, Log Home Living, New Old House and more.
After a stint in Sydney that broadened her perspective (and her curiosity), Emily has gone on to profile visionary founders, standout creatives and world-class athletes—always drawn to the story behind the success.
She’s also the author of Things I Heard While Dating, a witty take on modern romance, and teaches Save Smart, Live Well, a no-shame, real-life approach to grocery budgeting that actually works. (No extreme couponing or spreadsheets required.)
Mover. Shaker. Connector. Creator.
What people are saying
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"When I worked with Emily, our content strategy changed in a new direction, and she seamlessly kept up with every pivot. She was engaged, asked questions, and continued to pitch ideas that aligned with the new strategy. She hit every deadline (in most cases was early!) and was always open to collaborating and trying new things."
Stephanie D.
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"Even with tight deadlines that occur with a monthly publication, Emily's articles and features are always completed and edited on time. The businesses, clients, and individuals interviewed always love working with Emily, and we ask her to take on large or more complicated features."
Dana L.
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"She demonstrated an exceptional ability to create compelling, engaging, and high-quality content that resonated with our target audience. Emily consistently met or exceeded project deadlines and delivered work that was of the highest caliber. She worked effectively with both our internal team and external stakeholders to ensure that all copy aligned with our brand voice and message."
Brian P.
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"Emily was so delightful to work alongside. She is highly organized, has the best attention to detail, and leads a team with ease even with the tightest deadlines. She is a team player, always looking to find a solution, and will go to lengths to get there. She sets the bar high with her impeccable communication skills and professionalism. It was a true joy to work alongside someone with the same work ethic and determination to work in collaboration with each other and see it through to the finish line."
Chantel E.
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"Emily is creative, a phenomenal writer/storyteller, and above all, a loyal and dedicated co-worker/employee, willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Outstanding interpersonal skills are among her many assets. She is a critical thinker, a problem solver and a joy to work with. I can, in good conscience, recommend Emily for any writing/storytelling, editing, publishing, content creation, SEO or similar job."
Edie M.
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"We worked on many issues of Traditional Building magazine together over a few years. She was an amazing Managing Editor and writer. She was always on top of the materials, and excellent at interpreting what the Editor was trying to convey. She's very reliable, never had to worry about her getting her work in. She's very clever and an excellent problem solver. And add to that, she's so kind and fun and was a joy to work with! You can't go wrong having her join your team or work on a project with you!"
Mark S.