ABOUT ALANA
Hi, I'm Alana! I’m a Canadian cannabis writer and content creator.
So, how does one become a cannabis writer? It wasn't straightforward.
I graduated from Sheridan College's Journalism program and moved on to the University of New South Wales to add a BFA to my CV, turning my great uncle Gino's Nikon toward the streets of Sydney when I wasn't in class or running the coastal trails near Bondi.
I returned to Canada and moved to Toronto. I worked in the advertising industry, specifically TV commercial production, working with directors to sharpen their treatments.
As Brown Entertainment shifted to become Cartilage Inc., I found myself evolving into a freelance writer. Being independent employed since 2011 has allowed me to pursue my passions—writing, photography, and interviewing the people I admire and traveling the world.
I never planned to be a cannabis writer. It just sort of happened. I tapped into the topic of cannabis when I found my career at a crossroads, and I haven't looked back. My first six months was spent purely in research mode. I tested the market, I talked to everyone I could find, I attended conferences and presentations and activist group meetings to try to glean as much as I could from every perspective on the plant.
It was a very unique and interesting proposition put right in front of me, and a new way of doing business for me too, which is what made me the most excited— blazing a new trail and one of a group of pathfinders in this new industry as we move forward.
I conducted tireless research, tested the market, and probed industry experts until I transitioned from being a competent writer with journalistic roots writing about something new, to be an all-around expert of the Canadian cannabis industry.
People say I have a dream job, and it’s true.
In the future of cannabis, I am interested in seeing the cannabis industry becoming an example of inclusivity, diversity, sustainability, and innovation because those are the kinds of stories I want to be telling.
WHAT I DO
Are you thinking about refreshing your website, cleaning up the writing, art direction and navigation your customers see thousands of times a day? About creating a stronger relationship with the media or your brand's social media followers? About writing op-eds that shine with timeliness and authority? About having a professional write your next big, important piece? From brand development to digital marketing implementation, let me handle all your cannabis writing needs.
Content That Tells a Story
I work with a variety of cannabis companies who need expert research, thoughtful content marketing, impeccable social media and impactful essays. Whatever your need, I can help make your life's work into shareable art by evoking feelings through words and digital imagery.
Websites and SEO
You have someone building a website, but you also need to create content that will show up in search results. I will use the perfect combination of words to integrate your site with social media and email marketing to support SEO.
Email Marketing
Do with email campaigns what you can't get done on social media or through your website. I will help you craft effective communications with clear calls to action for your partners and customers.