Michelle Mekky is THE woman behind all of the big things happening in Chicago.

ichelle Mekky, where did you get your start?

I started my career in journalism after getting my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Northwestern University’s Medill School (of Journalism). I was a news writer and then senior producer for FOX 32 in Chicago.

It was a grueling workload and schedule, but I loved it.

After several years of being pitched by every publicist on the planet, I began to realize that I had a passion for public relations and marketing, and I made the transition from TV to working at agencies.

I had gained a lot of insider media knowledge and connections during my time as a producer, and that experience helped me achieve top-tier coverage for a broad range of clients, from small startups to global powerhouses.

In 2016, I finally decided to take the leap of launching my own PR agency after overcoming some twists and turns in my life including surviving cancer and losing a job. I started Mekky Media Relations at my dining room table, with just one client. It was definitely a risk and a huge challenge. I basically worked around the clock for the first few years.

But it was so worth it!

Today, I’m so proud of the agency that my team and I have built. I employ nearly 20 people. We have clients throughout Chicago and coast to coast and have global reach. Last year, we experienced record growth and became a seven-figure business.

It has been a rewarding journey, and I’m so proud of the work we do to elevate our partners and expand their reach.

If you had to narrow it down, what is your specific area of expertise?

I believe my expertise is connecting with people and developing an understanding of them and their business, then providing creative and impactful storytelling that fuels their growth. At Mekky Media, we specialize in PR strategy, media relations, media training, event promotion, social media strategy, influencer outreach, internal communications and integrated digital and PR programs.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

I enjoy getting to know so many creative and hardworking entrepreneurs and leaders who are building companies and nonprofits that are making a big difference in our world. Our clients and partners and the work they do inspire me, and I’m proud to be part of their journey. I also very much enjoy the creative storytelling aspect of PR. There are so many things I love about working in PR and leading my company. As a cancer survivor, I am grateful for every single day that I get to do this work that is so fulfilling.

In your own words, how would you describe the ROI of PR?

Good strategic public relations is a crucial part of growing a business, especially in these challenging times. It pays off in terms of media impressions, optimizing SEO and an increased social media following, to name just a few of the benefits. This can all help you stand out in a crowded field and attract customers, donors, employees, etc. PR also can position an organization or individual as a trusted expert or leading voice, which supports credibility and gives you the power to reach new audiences. In short, PR – when it’s done the right way – is an essential tool for driving revenue and growth. Leaders who understand this position themselves for long-term success.

Do you have any case studies or stories that can showcase the ROI of PR/ Communications?

We have case studies for all of our clients that show the tremendous results achieved through our strategic PR partnerships.

One that stands out is Abt Electronics, which has been a Mekky Media client for several years. We work closely with them to develop timely, compelling pitches and messaging that resonate, and we’ve been able to put them on a national stage by consistently achieving placements in high-profile publications and on national TV networks.

We’ve also had a longstanding partnership with Wealth Management Group, regularly placing owner Craig Bolanos on TV and radio and turning him into a financial media star. His elevated media presence has driven a consistent stream of new revenue for his business.

Other great examples are the new restaurant concepts we helped launch during the pandemic, like Edie’s All Day Cafe & Bar, which received a great deal of media attention and is now launching a second location and continuing to grow.

In addition, I’m incredibly proud to represent Red Bull and see the gains we’ve achieved for them. My team’s work for this national brand has resulted in millions of media impressions and impacted attendance at events, driving increases in the thousands. We have also contributed to increased donations and attendance at many fundraisers and for non-profit organizations of kinds. These are just a few examples where we’ve seen the intense and valuable ROI of smart PR programs and strategies.

What is the best PR / Communications advice you give your clients?

You can’t just start blasting press releases and gain meaningful coverage. You have to really identify a strong message on what makes you different and newsworthy, and really strategize how to get your message out.

When you are willing to invest and give it time, PR can be absolutely crucial to your success.

I have clients who have been with me from the beginning.

Additionally, get media trained! We love training our clients and outside experts and businesses and have seen dramatic success.

Is there anything we haven’t asked that you’d

like to add?

I am also very passionate about leadership. I did not expect to have an agency of the size I do today. I literally imagined myself at my dining room table, with three clients. But now I have a staff of 20 that I am responsible for. I need to show up every day and lead with passion, strength and empathy.

It is a big role I do not take lightly. I pride myself on the culture we have built and the amazing team of people making my dream happen of having a successful healthy workplace that cares about its people and its clients.

Michelle Mekky is a PR veteran, award-winning broadcast journalist and public relations executive. She is founder and president of Mekky Media Relations, Inc., a boutique PR agency with clients in Chicago and coast to coast that range from startups to industry leaders.

To follow Michelle, visit:

Facebook: @MekkyMichelle

Instagram: @Michelle.Mekky

Twitter: @MichelleMekky

LinkedIn: Michelle Mekky