In the heart of Miami, Florida, Adrienne Horn has carved out a unique niche in the publishing world with her company, I A.M. Editing, Ink. What started as a response to adversity has blossomed into a transformative venture, empowering aspiring authors, particularly black female entrepreneurs, to share their stories authentically and independently.
Adrienne’s journey into entrepreneurship was catalyzed by a sudden career shift in 2016. As a new mother and previously a pharmacist, Adrienne found herself unexpectedly laid off, despite her qualifications. Faced with rejection after rejection in her job search, she decided to pivot towards her passion for literature and editing. Thus, I A.M. Editing, Ink, LLC was born—a testament to resilience and the determination to create her own path.
Transitioning from a secure career in pharmacy to the unpredictable world of editing and entrepreneurship was not without its challenges. Adrienne initially managed nearly every aspect of her business alone, driven by a perfectionist mindset instilled by years of self-reliance. However, she soon realized the necessity of building a capable team, essential for sustainable growth and success.
“I achieved significant success as a first-time entrepreneur, but I was quickly burning out even before truly getting started,” Adrienne reflects. “Learning to delegate was a major hurdle for me. It required overcoming my fear of trusting others with the vision I had meticulously crafted.”
Today, I A.M. Editing, Ink stands not only as a testament to Adrienne’s personal journey but also as a beacon of hope for aspiring writers seeking alternatives to traditional publishing routes. Adrienne’s approach emphasizes personalized service and direct involvement in every project, offering a level of intimacy and support that larger firms often lack. This hands-on approach has not only transformed manuscripts but also changed lives, exemplified by initiatives like “The Writer’s Haven” journals—a therapeutic outlet for mental wellness through writing, especially tailored for the Black community.
“I wanted to create a space where authors could retain creative control over their work while receiving the professional guidance needed to navigate the publishing process effectively,” Adrienne explains. “Self-publishing isn’t just a trend—it’s a viable option for authors to share their stories with the world on their own terms.”
Adrienne encourages her clients, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, to consider self-publishing as a pathway to amplify their voices. “It’s about having total control over your narrative,” she emphasizes. “From editing and formatting to cover design and distribution, self-publishing allows authors to make decisions aligned with their vision and goals.”
Reflecting on the evolution of the publishing landscape, Adrienne acknowledges the accessibility of self-publishing platforms like Kindle Direct Publishing and IngramSpark, which have democratized the industry. “Becoming a published author is more achievable now than ever before,” she notes. “These platforms provide authors with the tools they need to bring their manuscripts to life without waiting for acceptance from traditional publishers.”
When asked about the stories that inspire her most, Adrienne’s passion for non-fiction shines through. “Everyone has a story or knowledge to share,” she affirms. “Editing non-fiction works allows me to polish these narratives, making them impactful and accessible to a broader audience. These stories are often solutions waiting to be discovered by someone who needs them most.”
For those interested in working with I A.M. Editing, Ink, Adrienne ensures there is a service for everyone. From editing dissertations and revamping resumes to crafting custom journals and facilitating self-publishing journeys, her team is dedicated to supporting diverse projects and authors at every stage.
To learn more about Adrienne Horn and I A.M. Editing, Ink, visit her website or connect through social media. Adrienne’s story is not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s about reshaping an industry, one manuscript at a time, and empowering voices that deserve to be heard.
Image Credit: Just B. Still Photography
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