Passionate Writer, Editor & Coach

Hi, I’m Marisa Donnelly

And to me, writing is as essential as breathing.

I gravitate to the written word, and I’m fascinated by the way this form of expression not only heals and strengthens us, but is an integral part of our humanness. Whether you’re here to browse my content, develop your own craft, or hire me for services, welcome. I am happy to have you here.

“There is a light within you.”

Be A Light is my a remote-based writing coaching, tutoring, and editing services company dedicated to encouraging, equipping, and empowering individuals to their highest potential. My company is not only a business, though. It’s also a community.

Who I Am

I am a versatile, creative, and engaging writer who’s passionate about what she does. I’ve published thousands of articles accumulating over 21.2+ million page views and have worked with companies, clients, and brands all over the world. I love developing content that’s strong and SEO-friendly, helping people find their creative and professional voices, and sharing my heart with the world one post at a time.

Shop my books, prints, and products right here.

Why Work With Me?

I believe that each and every one of us has a story. A story that’s unique and valuable. And whether that story becomes a book, blog, Instagram post, company mantra, diary entry, or note to a loved one, I’m here to help.

For businesses and companies: I craft engaging and personable writing that will drive visitors to your site, boost organic traffic, and promote sales. For clients and all other interested humans: I will help you find and strengthen your voice. I will get your words from your mind to your page with ease, while fostering individuality, vulnerability, and confidence.

Balance isn’t something you can ‘get,’ but something that you foster within yourself and all around you.

6 Tips For Writers Just Beginning Their Careers

February 6, 2019February 28, 2019 Marisa Donnelly

Learn and absorb as much as you can. Writers are lifelong learners.

Testimonials

"Marisa was one of the first few editors who I worked with for a long time. What I enjoyed most working with her was how fast she responded to my questions and requests. Besides that, she has been a great help to point out ways to improve my work so it fits better for the publications I wanted to submit to."
Dean Yeong (Lead Writer at Quora)
"Several of her poems touched me. I am a big Mary Oliver fan and have several of her books on my shelf and maybe a half dozen by other poets and Donnelly's book is going on that shelf of keepers, on poetry books that I re-read and refer to...that inspire me to make a piece of art or share with a friend. "Run Wild With Me", "Sixteen", and "This You Must Learn Young" were among my favorites. I hope that she continues to write poetry of this caliber."
Kathy Duffy (Lead Critic at Goodreads)
"Currently one of my favorite writers for her reliability; that is, for her personal experiences, and careful insight in each of her posts. Her perspective on life is hopeful and true. I wish would have known about her writings earlier in life and before entering (or staying in) toxic relationships for the sake of being a 'good person'. Thank you for spreading your cheerfulness and giving us all reason to carry on with optimism."
Benjamin Cuellar (Marketing & Social Media Specialist)
"Marisa brings light to everything and everyone she encounters. Humble, graceful, loving, encouraging, understanding, magical, and supportive are all words I would use to describe Marisa and her work. She brightens my life and thousands of other lives daily. She is one of Thought Catalog's most loved authors. I read 'Somewhere On A Highway' when I was writing my own book in 2017. Her poetry and rawness encouraged me to keep writing when my vulnerability wanted me to stop. At the time, I had no idea she would end up encouraging me to publish my own book 'This Will Set Me Free' with Thought Catalog Books. Marisa is true gold. She lifts others up, gives feedback to less established authors to help them grow, and brings an awareness to every day human struggles eloquently. I'd recommend this book, and all past and future work of Marisa, to anyone."
Kristin Michelle Elizabeth (Author of “This Will Set Me Free”)
"I can't recommend working with Marisa enough. She's an exceptionally genuine and approachable freelancer. She puts so much thought and creativity into her work and sets the bar high for quality writing. I hope to work with her again in the future!"
Shelby Ray (Sr. Marketing/PR Specialist at BLUEFIN)