Amy Parrish, founder of Rhythm Communications. (Credit: Courtesy of Rhythm Communications)
She Serves Up Methodical Marketing Solutions
From film festivals and nonprofits to fast food chains and construction companies, Amy Parrish markets them all through her firm, Rhythm Communications.
Before she started her own firm, Amy Parrish worked both sides of the writer’s coin – first as a journalist, then as a publicist. Eventually, she landed a position at a large marketing agency that she loved – but when she got pregnant with her son, she knew she had to change her schedule drastically, so that she could spend more time with him. In 2003, Parrish launched Rhythm Communications, where she provides customized, unique marketing solutions for a broad range of businesses, while working hours that make sense for her “mom” life. To date, the Atlanta, Georgia-based entrepreneur has worked on behalf of film festivals, the Georgia Entertainment Tax Incentive, several nonprofit research organizations – and even fast food chain Chick-fil-A.
Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.
Tell us about your biggest success so far.
One of the projects I’m proudest to have been a part of is the creation of the Georgia Entertainment Tax Incentive. Over 20 years ago, I worked with Grammy-winning producer Dallas Austin to establish the Tax Credit Program. The initiative offers a 20% transferable tax credit to films, television series, commercials and music videos filmed in the state of Georgia. It has been one of my happiest achievements to have worked on something that changed the film industry in Georgia.
What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?
In the early 2000s, when there was an economic downturn, we retooled, repriced and revised. When there was a shift away from public relations as a lead marketing program a few years back, we emphasized other marketing techniques. When social media became a lead voice in marketing communications, we trained our team to craft organic social media solutions. But no matter what, good writing always rises to the top.
Have you experienced any significant personal situations that affected your business decisions?
I had always dreamed of being a mother. My husband and I had been trying to have a child for 10 years, and had been told by physicians that I would not be able to have a baby. We had begun investigating adoption – but God had different plans for us, and I got pregnant.
At the time, both of our careers were incredibly demanding, and not conducive to childcare. I left my position at Grey Globals, an advertising and marketing agency, that I loved – and started up instead. I was able to juggle working from home one day per week, then hired an incredible nanny for the other days – but I still made sure I was always home for dinner. We were ultimately able to cherish every moment of our son’s childhood.
What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs?
Build a team around your strengths and weaknesses – and praise those team members who make your firm successful. In my case, I especially needed help with operations and finance management. Although this was a difficult investment to make as a small firm, it was important for our firm’s success.
How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?
I seek solutions through prayer, and I find peace through music and family time. In recent years, I’ve also taken to walking for stress management.
What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?
Music is my greatest love – there are too many songs I love to count or list. However, my son, Eli Parrish, is a talented musician who composes for and conducts symphonies. I am most moved by Prometheus’ Prelude, his first full symphony, which is sold and performed all over the world.
Who is your most important role model?
As you age, your role models evolve – no one person can fill every hole. My mother is my role model for motherhood and the best example of leading and loving a family. Eslene Richmond-Shockley, of Caring for Others, stands up for what is right and fights for people in need. My husband has taught me about living for the will of God, and being humble. And, I had the pleasure of working under journalist Katie Couric at NBC. She is one of the finest writers, investigative reporters and storytellers on the planet.
Instagram: @RhythmCommunicationsllc
Facebook: @RhythmCommunications
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