We had an inspiring coffee chat with Angela Melero, Executive Editor of The Zoe Report!

Press Hook: Can you tell us about your journey in the digital media space?

Angela Melero: I originally started in print, working at a business newspaper and then a beauty trade magazine. From there, I transitioned into the digital space, working for L'Oreal on their branded site, makeup.com. Then I freelanced for a bit, working with Refinery29's branded team and doing a lot of beauty and fashion freelancing.

In 2017, I joined The Zoe Report full-time as it was always one of the top companies I wanted to write for. When the position became available, I jumped on it. I've been with The Zoe Report since then, even through an acquisition, and I've stayed on as a loyal employee.

PH: What does your role as the Executive Editor at The Zoe Report entail?

AM: As the only team member on the West Coast, I oversee a lot of the stories and events happening out here, such as attending fashion shows and events on behalf of The Zoe Report. Being on the West Coast, I've also taken on a celebrity entertainment role, covering red carpet events like the Oscars, Grammys, and Golden Globes.

Day-to-day, I help oversee our fashion, beauty, and lifestyle verticals, editing and helping with features. I'm also the point person for curating all of our lifestyle content, including home, cocktails, and travel. I've really built out our travel vertical, establishing us as an authority in that space. I love that I get to do a little bit of everything and write the stories I'm passionate about.

PH: How do you decide what to feature on The Zoe Report?

AM: We are very data-driven, paying close attention to what our readers are clicking on and engaging with across platforms like TikTok and Google Analytics. We try to stay on the pulse of what's trending and what people are searching for.

As a style-focused website, fashion months in February and September are our busiest times. We closely follow the runways and designers to identify upcoming trends that will influence fashion, home decor, food, and spending habits.

Celebrity-driven entertainment content is also huge, so we're always on the lookout for emerging talent and anticipated movies and shows. Seasonal content, like holiday and summer trends, is another key driver for us. We really pull inspiration from everywhere.

PH: Are there any macro trends you see emerging in lifestyle?

AM: Nostalgia is a big one right now, with a lot of 90s and nostalgic decor trending. We're seeing things like fringe furniture, which started in fashion and is now reaching the home space, and the return of 90s-inspired marble and modern looks.

Color trends are another area our readers love. Last year, we saw a lot of maximalist candy colors like pinks and bright greens. This year, blue is a driving color in homes, but there's also a return to beautiful, clean neutrals. The Pantone color of the year, Peach Fuzz, is really popular and can be embraced in both muted and vibrant ways.

PH: What’s a memorable story or project you've really enjoyed working on?

AM: One of the highlights of my career was getting to meet Rihanna and do a full photo shoot with her when she was pregnant with her first child. It was her last event before giving birth, and she was just so much fun and a delight to work with! That's definitely a career high I'll be telling my family about for years to come.

I also love writing stories that are very personal to me and interviewing people who inspire my own career. Getting to interview Danny Pellegrino, one of my favorite podcasters of all time, and Philippa Gregory, a historical fiction novelist I've admired for years, were experiences that really motivated me.

PH: What future plans do you have for The Zoe Report?

AM: We just wrapped up fashion month and award season, so now we're full force into spring and summer. We're discussing trends, working on our summer issue, and putting together a fun travel piece on packing for bucket list destinations.

I'm really focusing on lifestyle content - where we're traveling, how we're transitioning our homes for the warmer seasons, and the color trends and pieces that are driving the season ahead. We're also always on the lookout for emerging brands doing interesting things in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle for the coming months.

PH: What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue a career in journalism?

AM: Don't be afraid to be a pain in the ass and really go after the jobs and opportunities you want. Follow up persistently. I think so often we get caught up worrying about bugging people or being a bother. But at the end of the day, it's your career. The worst somebody can say is no, and then you just keep moving forward.

In my own career, the times when I was persistent (but not aggressive) were when opportunities ended up coming my way. I'd also advise being open to new opportunities and not putting yourself in one lane. Pursue random or new avenues that present themselves because they could lead to a great career path. I think this is something the younger generation resonates with, because I've seen so many people doing side hustles. It's a great way to explore other options and opportunities that may come along.

PH: Is there anything else you'd like to share that I haven't asked about?

AM: Oh I love Press Hook, and this is not an ad. It's really helpful and has allowed me to discover great brands and find sources for trend stories. It's an invaluable resource. Again, always take up on opportunities for new sources and networking because you never know where they'll take you or who they'll introduce you to.

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Check out The Zoe Report at: https://www.thezoereport.com/

Learn more about Angela Melero at: https://www.thezoereport.com/profile/angela-melero-10923179