Well hello there!
My name is Bree James and I am a Magazine Publisher, a Performer, a Presenter and an Entrepreneur.
If I had to encapsulate myself-it would be that I have always given things a go. So that is why I am starting this blog, to share with you all the things I give a go. I truly hope it inspires you to also give more things a go.
I guess you can say that I first showed signs of entrepreneurial spirit when I was a ten years old. I somehow persuaded my dad’s partner to let me sign up as an Avon representative so that I could earn pocket money. I quickly went on to sell Avon to all of my school teachers and neighbours probably becoming the highest earning ten year old in my school.
At 14 I jumped at the chance to be a singer in my father’s band and by 18 years of age I registered for an ABN and started my first business as an entertainer; a business which is still running today nearly 18 years later.
I am someone that is always looking for opportunities to make a difference, and in 2007 I recognised a gap to promote local information and events to families. Within six weeks I was publishing a family magazine to ensure families knew what was on in the region and were more connected with their community, and to also help with publicity for community events and entertainment a month in advance.
There were a few hurdles. I had never worked in the print industry, written a story, or sold advertising and didn’t yet have any children of my own, but I had a vision and was prepared to work hard to make it happen.
Since those humble beginnings, we have not only survived, but thrived in the industry, and I have been a magazine publisher now for nine years. I have an amazing team and in this time we have printed 2 million magazines. My successful “PakMag” brand is well known to families right across North Queensland. It boasts a monthly readership base of 72,000 through three separate magazines printed for three cities: Cairns, Townsville and Mackay and we also publish a national digital magazine, PakMag Australia, with more on the way in 2016.
I am now a mother to two young boys and I understand acutely the challenges of running a small business. I know how hard it is to raise a family and run a business at the same time. My next mission is to launch MOB Magazine. Designed to be “the ultimate voice for small business” the publication is on its way to becoming the premier source of advice and information for business owners across the globe.
I am the Director of three companies and I have several other concepts and projects in progress and I am hoping to expand my magazine empire amongst it all.
I am an avid traveller, adventure seeker, music lover, performer, mother and business owner.
I try loads of things, and hope that sharing them with you inspires you in life, leisure and business.
If there is something you would like me to give a go, email info@giveitagogirl.com.au
Thanks for your support of my blog.
Bree James