Five Firsts with Abigail Fredelake, Editor of The Scout Guide Columbus

We’re always hoping to make a good first impression, and that first-time readers of The Scout Guide will put the publication down feeling inspired to learn more about the featured businesses—and, if they’re out-of-towners, to seek out (or start) a guide in their own hometown. In this series, we talk to our editors about their TSG “firsts,” from their first encounter with The Scout Guide to the first business they scouted and more. Read on to learn about The Scout Guide Columbus editor/owner Abigail Fredelake’s notable “firsts.” 

When did you first discover The Scout Guide?

I first discovered The Scout Guide in 2014 when planning our wedding in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Many of our wedding vendors were featured in their first edition, which had just launched. I instantly fell in love with the quality and aesthetic of the guide. I even ended up using them as our Save the Dates and included the second edition in our wedding welcome bags. After meeting with Meagan, the editor in Jackson Hole at the time, it sealed the deal that I needed to bring this publication to Columbus.

What made you decide to become an editor?

It truly was happenstance discovering The Scout Guide when I did, as I was looking for a career change at the time. My husband and I knew Columbus was going to be our home for the foreseeable future and I wanted to do something where I would be integreated in the community, along with being my own boss. I come from a retail merchandising and sales background, so this opportunity really fit with all my passions…meeting people, selling a product I love, and a lot of creative elements.

“Being a part of the TSG editor/owner community is unlike any other. You have the benefit of owning your own business, but with the support of 70 other editors across the country and a fabulous team at HQ.”

Tell us about the first business you approached to be in the guide?

The first sales meeting I had about TSG Columbus was back in 2015 with Miranda Boyle, owner of THREAD. I’m not going to lie, it was challenging that first year, selling a product/service that previously did not exist. Luckily, I had countless other TSG city guides to show off, which made the sales process a lot more effective. The meeting must have gone well because Miranda and THREAD will have their seventh feature with us this coming year. One of our TSG Columbus OG’s!

What was it like to launch your first volume?

It really is impossible to describe the feeling you have opening the box of your premiere edition for the first time. There were lots of butterflies, but also an immense sense of pride. So much hard work and love goes into producing each volume. Seeing our members experience it at our launch party is such a satisfying feeling as well. They were all a part of the process and have so much to be proud of too.

What’s the first thing you would tell a prospective editor?

Being a part of the TSG editor/owner community is unlike any other. You have the benefit of owning your own business, but with the support of 70 other editors across the country and a fabulous team at HQ. Being your own boss has so many benefits, but it’s a lot of work and you wear so many hats. It’s amazing to be able to bounce ideas and ask questions to other women who are doing the same thing as you. Many have become wonderful friends of mine and are a  daily inspiration. 

Featured photo by Kismet Visuals & Co. To learn more about Abigail and The Scout Guide in her area, visit The Scout Guide Columbus website and follow The Scout Guide  Columbus on Instagram. Learn more about starting The Scout Guide in your city here.