Like BedTimes editors before me, I periodically like to use this column to acknowledge and thank the members of the publications staff of the International Sleep Products Association.
What better time than the holidays—a time of remembering the blessings in our lives—to say thank you for their commitment, hard work and can-do attitude every day of the year.
There are seven of us who handle the advertising, circulation, editorial and production of BedTimes, as well as its sister magazine Sleep Savvy. In addition to producing 20 magazines a year, the team maintains two websites, is active on social media and travels to numerous markets and shows throughout the year. Needless to say, we are a busy crew.
I feel privileged to work with such talented women, including Kerri Bellias, vice president of sales, and Debbie Robbins, advertising production manager, who keep the magazines in the black. Managing editor Beth English, with us now for two years, contributes her keen editorial and creative skills to each page. Barbara Nelles serves as content and digital editor, deftly managing the publications’ websites (BedTimesMagazine.com and SleepSavvyMagazine.com, respectively), along with our social media presence.
Creative director Stephanie Belcher, who has been with BedTimes for more than a dozen years, brings accomplished, stylish design to each issue. And Mary Rulli works diligently as our circulation manager to make sure each magazine is delivered to you in a timely manner.
The publications team is fortunate to work with seasoned freelance writers and editors Gary James, Julie A. Palm, Phillip M. Perry, Cindy Sheaffer, Dorothy Whitcomb and others who bring expertise, insight and engaging articles to our pages.
Of course, I am grateful to work with the ISPA staff in Alexandria, Virginia. Although small, the team at ISPA’s headquarters masterfully organizes industry events, produces reliable data and statistics, and supports its members with a variety of services. And the leadership team of Catherine Lyons, Mary Helen Rogers and Ryan Trainer always is available to provide encouragement and guidance.
It’s a pleasure to work with such professionals, and I think we work very well together. Producing magazines is complicated and sometimes messy—with unexpected twists (and there are many!) and last-minute changes. But this group faces these bumps with grace and industriousness.
Above all, I am grateful for the IPSA members and the bedding industry community who read BedTimes in print and online, follow us on social media and support the magazine’s printed pages and website with advertising.
Every day—even the ones that get harried—I feel fortunate to be associated with genuine, conscientious and generous co-workers, colleagues and readers.
From our team to yours, we wish you a happy, peaceful holiday season and a prosperous new year.
