the Lady who does it ALL in Macon: Susannah Maddux
Susannah Maddux has not been in Macon all that long- but you would never know it! Not only has Macon quickly become her home but frankly, Macon has also adopted her. Originally from Monroe, North Carolina Susannah is the logistics and public relations for the “i love macon” campaign along with many other local projects. She is the president and founder of Goods Public Relations, and her client list boasts work with Signature Salon, the Cherry Blossom Festival and The Arc Macon, to name a few. She is also a jewelry designer that I first featured in my Macon Food and Culture column a few years ago. She serves as secretary on the Hay House Board, the PR chair for the Museum of Arts and Sciences Festival of Trees committee and on Historic Macon’s Young Patrons committee. She served as the Komen Race for the Cure Race Chair and seeks opportunities where she can help promote all things Macon. People think that my activities make their heads spin- but Susannah does that to me! Hell this girl can even make fig preserves (see her Instagram photos). I can barely butter toast. Along with all of this Susannah has impeccable style. So, to learn a little more about this fascinating lady, please read below!
MIWM: Hello Susannah! So tell us a little bit about your PR company, Goods PR?
Hello Molly, and thank you for this opportunity! I founded Goods after inspiring work for a boutique PR firm in Raleigh and less stimulating freelance work and a desk job with an NFL agent in Atlanta brought me to Macon to be with Tripp, now my husband. I saw possibilities for more specialized, meaningful PR for small businesses in Macon. So, on my 26th birthday in March 2010, I took the leap to do work that continues to challenge, ignite and fulfill me, and hopefully the people that I encounter, daily.
MIWM: Please elaborate for us about the “i love macon” campaign, when were you brought in? It seems to be really catching on in a lot of unique ways!
I couldn’t be happier to be a part of this movement! The Macon Magazine 2011 group of young leaders accepted my proposal in December, and we hit the streets running! i love macon is the positive grassroots campaign (without the politics) we’ve needed. It’s simple – a conversation started that we, as a city, will continue. Pledge signers are called to be the change you want to see.
MIWM: So of course we have to know, what do YOU love about Macon?
I love the deep-rooted Southern history, architecture and charm; the small town feel paired with an abundance of opportunities, the energy that seems to be ready to burst like a book just waiting to be thoroughly enjoyed, the food, the creative class, the yoga, the challenges worth figuring out, the way it embraces me and the people who inspire me to be more everyday. Shall I go on?
MIWM: For those who don’t know, can you tell us more about the PR business? You always seem to be everywhere! I don’t know HOW you do it.
For me, public relations is all about telling the story. I love my work and love to live it. Whether it’s by way of developing an idea, crafting an event, creating a social media campaign, designing a logo, connecting others to a cause or a pitch to the media, I seek the details to share the good worth sharing. I like to be the voice for the shop owner, designer or cause so that said clients can do the work they were born to do.
MIWM: Ok so of course i have to ask- where are you favorite places to shop in Macon?
From Sorella, Karats & Keepsakes, Head Over Heels, Rodeo Beach, Barney & Stella and Rumor to Yellow House, Previews, Payne Mill Antiques and Henry’s of Bolingbroke, I will never tire of our local offerings!
And, I simply cannot wait for Haven – the linen, tabletop and furnishings shop – to open this fall!
MIWM: Haven- well I have to say this is the first I have heard about this! Can you please tell us more?
Haven is owner Whitney DePalma’s answer to the void she and so many friends felt for cultivated bedding, tabletop and entertaining wares, as well as, stylish home furnishings in Macon. Our homes and gift lists will give thanks when the doors open on Forsyth Road in September!
MIWM: Who are your style icons?
My spectacular mother. Diane von Furstenberg. Marc Jacobs. Jackie O. Michelle Obama. Carrie Bradshaw.
MIWM: Last but of course not least- what is the ONE fashion item you cannot live without?
A DvF wrap dress – made even better with Chanel eyeliner in Violene
Frankly, I could go on talking to Susannah- She is simply fabulous and fascinating! I am sure I will be interviewing her again in the near future, whether it’s about her own personal style or her many philanthropic activities. Keep your eyes open for the next Goods PR event- You can be sure Susannah’s own impeccable style will ring through.
