Do Your Own PR

Do Your Own PR is a London-based mentoring and coaching service that helps growing businesses build their own public relations capabilities. Founded in 2002 by Paula Gardner, the company focuses on businesses that are not yet ready to retain a full-service PR agency. Based at 19 Worple Road in Wimbledon, London, United Kingdom, the firm offers a practical, hands-on approach to PR strategy and campaign implementation.

Who They Serve

Do Your Own PR primarily works with small to medium-sized enterprises and startups that want to develop in-house PR skills rather than outsourcing to an agency. The service is also well-suited to charities, sole traders, and professional services firms that need to raise their profile without the ongoing cost of a retainer. Because the company offers coaching rather than full-service PR, it is ideal for business owners who have the time and willingness to learn but lack the specialist knowledge to create effective campaigns. Do Your Own PR also occasionally offers internships for young people interested in PR, marketing, social media, and copywriting, providing a pathway into the industry for newcomers.

How They Help

The core offering of Do Your Own PR is mentoring in PR, profile raising, and marketing techniques. Clients receive guidance on creating a tailored PR strategy and then implementing campaigns themselves. The founder, Paula Gardner, brings over 20 years of combined experience in PR and journalism, having worked across diverse industries. She is also the author of Get Noticed and Do Your Own PR, which serve as practical resources for her coaching. Rather than doing the work for clients, Do Your Own PR empowers them to take control of their own media relations, from crafting press releases to pitching stories to journalists. This model is particularly effective for businesses that want to build long-term PR skills rather than relying on external support.

Services Offered

While Do Your Own PR does not list specific services on its profile, based on its focus on PR coaching and campaign implementation, likely offerings include:

• PR strategy development and planning
• Media training and pitch coaching
• Press release writing and distribution guidance
• Social media and content marketing mentoring
• Profile raising and thought leadership coaching
• Copywriting and messaging workshops
• Business coaching for PR and marketing

These services are delivered through one-on-one mentoring sessions, workshops, or online resources. The emphasis is always on teaching clients how to do their own PR effectively, rather than providing a done-for-you service.

Location and Reach

Do Your Own PR operates from its headquarters at 19 Worple Road in Wimbledon, London, England, United Kingdom. While the business is rooted in London, its coaching model means it can serve clients anywhere via virtual sessions. The company's location in the United Kingdom gives it a strong understanding of the UK media landscape, which is critical for clients looking to gain coverage in national and regional outlets. For businesses in London and beyond, Do Your Own PR offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional PR agencies, particularly for those who want to learn the ropes themselves.

Do Your Own PR is best suited for growing businesses, startups, and charities that have a clear need for PR but lack the budget for a full-service agency. It is also a good fit for entrepreneurs who prefer a hands-on approach and want to develop skills they can use long-term. With over two decades of experience and a founder who is also an author in the field, Do Your Own PR provides practical, no-nonsense guidance for anyone looking to raise their profile in the UK market.