I’m a Seattle-based writer and strategist helping mission-driven brands tell their story. See my published work.
With a decade of editorial experience, I love using storytelling to help make the outdoors a more welcoming and inclusive place.
I've loved writing from the time my hands were strong enough to hold a pencil, and I've been editing my friends’ work since high school. Writing is the thing that gets me in a flow state and leaves me feeling focused and alive. To me, writing or editing a reported piece or an editorial essay is like putting together an intricate puzzle with all the pieces in the right spots.
Editorial Services
Writing
My specialty is in reporting long-form and explanatory stories that leave readers feeling inspired. Learn more.
Editing
I work collaboratively with writers and content teams, offering support at every stage in the editorial process. My services include structural feedback and/or line edits and a final copy check. Learn more.
Content Strategy
I help teams develop a strategy that tracks toward editorial and business objectives. Together, we create a plan for creating best-in-class content that resonates with new and existing audiences. Learn more.
“Jess is a thoughtful and detail-oriented editor who makes sure to keep the big picture in mind. She asks insightful questions to get at the root of a problem or strategy before executing on a task with precision and patience. She's also a lovely person and a joy to work with.”
— Jane Watson, Senior Program Manager, Amazon Web Services
"One of the best pieces of advice I received as a writer was to find editors you like working with and follow them wherever they go. Jess is that editor for me. We met when I was a contributing editor to REI’s [Uncommon Path] and Jess mentored me in both editing and writing. She is one of the most thoughtful and kind editors I’ve ever worked with. She has a laser sharp focus on detail and reads closely for accuracy and authenticity. She also pushes me in the best way possible to go deeper with the stories I’m writing and come back with a piece that has more meaning and value. For these reasons, I’m always especially proud of the stories I write for Jess, and I know I’ll continue to seek out her editing wherever she is.”
— Julie Brown, Freelance Journalist and Writer
Contact Me
I love meeting new people and teams.
Drop me a line if you think we might be a good fit.
jessica.bernhard@gmail.com
Seattle, WA