Born in Sweden, and raised around the globe in Australia, London and New York before finally landing in Los Angeles; Maria Neuman has always had a curiosity for all things stylish. Whether naming a new lipstick collection, buying for one of LA’s top design stores, or interviewing an up-and-coming actor; her love of words, teamed with her aesthetic, has lead to a pretty nifty resumé.
Maria started her journalism career in London at Harper’s Bazaar and Esquire, before transitioning to Marie Claire in NYC as a beauty editor. She worked her way up the magazine ladder at national titles such as Teen People, Jump, Elle Girl and OK Magazine. She’s held masthead titles from Beauty Director to Executive Editor, which have contributed to her flexibility, experience, and skill-set.
In 2006, she deviated (slightly) by taking over one of LA’s beloved Scandinavian retail spots. “It seemed like something I’d be good at. Just like journalism, retail is about knowing what your customer wants, and giving it to them in a fun, fresh and interesting way. Plus, it stopped me from compulsively rearranging my house. ”
Finally, Maria has built an extensive freelance career in writing and editing, with assignments for Cosmopolitan, Shape, Elle UK, The Hollywood Reporter and Emmy Magazine. She has written books, interviewed A-list celebrities, styled shoots, consulted on beauty-lines, created corporate bios and brand books.
You should set up a meeting. Just make sure there’s coffee.