Behind the Jazzy Pen
About Joan Burke Stanford
Behind the Jazzy Pen is me, Joan Burke Stanford. I’m a trained journalist with nearly 20 years of writing and editing experience. I’ve written about everything from radiation therapy technology to hip hop music. I’ve also edited a wide array of documents from electronic component reports to urban, erotic novels.
My career began just after college when I worked as an intern at Video Toaster User magazine (A video what? Yeah, I know, right? Trust me. It’s very well-known in video production and 3D animation circles). In less than two years I worked my way up from intern to managing editor. At the time, the dot-com boom was in full swing. Eager to be a part of it, I earned a technical writing certificate and joined the technological revolution taking place. I wrote technical user manuals and marketing collateral for several startup companies, where I discovered a love for the entrepreneurial world.
A few years later, the dot-com bubble popped and I decided to play it somewhat safe. With my editing pen in hand, I worked comfortably for many years as a technical editor at a market research firm. Alas, listening to that entrepreneurial whisper, I launched Jazzy Pen Communications as a part-time freelance editing venture.
Following a layoff (a blessing in disguise), I transitioned Jazzy Pen to a full-time business and now as an independent freelance writer and editor I enjoy writing marketing content for small and medium-sized businesses and editing books for self-publishers. I have a bachelor’s degree in journalism from San Jose State University, a desire to help others and unbridled creative energy. When I’m not writing or editing, you can find me wrapped up with a good book, shopping for shoes or spending quality time with my husband and two adorable children.
What does this all mean to you? Well, when you hire me, you get an experienced journalist who is quite comfortable with rolling up her sleeves, doing the research and writing quality content. You get a native English speaker who “gets it.” Client satisfaction and ultimate success are priorities for me. If it sounds like I might be a good partner for you, let’s connect.
5 Random Facts
- I’m no Imelda Marcos but will write for shoes, preferably 3.5 or four inch heels.
- I have NASCAR dreams. I love fast cars and could easily see myself racing them. At the very least I’d like to be in the next Fast and Furious!
- I have been on a reality TV show. It was only one episode and although I was horribly sick during filming (the show must go on), I had tons of fun.
- I’m a diehard Raiders fan. Love the silver and black. Just win, baby!
- I love the color red, but I never edit with a red pen. Raise your hand if you hated the dreaded red pen in school. My jazzy editing pen is purple.
“Working with Jazzy Pen Communications was the best decision I’ve ever made. Joan was very easy to work with and her overall editing skills and commitment to my project is why I highly recommend her services. The proof is in the edits. Let Jazzy Pen polish your project and turn your literary experience into a positive head start.”
~N’Tyse, author of My Secrets Your Lies and Stud Princess
“Joan was charged with taking the lead on our blog and newsletter. In her role, she truly shined. The newsletter was released timely and was chock-full with interesting information that was a true asset to the reader. Many members and corporate partners praised the Chapter for the fantastic newsletter…It is an honor to know and work with Joan. I heartily recommend her to take your writing and publications to an unprecedented level.”
~Christina S. Loza, President National Association of Women Business Owners-Inland Empire, 2010-2011
“Joan Burke Stanford is one of the best technical writers and copy editors in the business. As a communications professional myself, I am acutely impressed with her solid command of English grammar, style and punctuation. I am delighted to have Joan edit my work because she makes me look like a writing genius.”
~Toni Beckham, President PR, et Cetera, Inc.
“Jazzy Pen Communications is where the writer gets it right! Joan is the ultimate in professionalism and skill and I’m proud to have her in my corner!” ~Toni Staton Harris, author of Nothing Special Just Friends
