The Neighborhood Edit

One creative challenge. One free thoughtful solution.

The Neighborhood Edit is a free creative initiative where small NYC + NJ businesses can receive thoughtful creative support focused on one brand challenge that they’re currently facing — spanning branding, storytelling, marketing, and experience-driven ideas. Scroll to the bottom to apply. 

Creatively trusted by

what this offers

hi, i’m milena 👋🏼

I’m a NYC metro resident with 11 years of experience working as a brand strategist and creative for Fortune 500 brands, helping companies shape how they connect with people through storytelling, creative direction, and brand experience.

I’ve always believed the most memorable businesses aren’t just selling a product — they’re creating a feeling, a story, and a sense of connection within their community. The Neighborhood Edit is a way for me to bring that same level of thoughtful creativity and strategic thinking to the local businesses that make our neighborhoods feel personal, inspiring, and alive.

From cafés to wellness spaces and neighborhood brands, this initiative is dedicated to helping small businesses strengthen their identity in ways that feel intentional, memorable, and culturally relevant.

Through The Neighborhood Edit, I offer one creative solution to one business challenge at a time — completely free of charge. Whether it’s a fresh campaign idea, social storytelling, menu naming, customer experience concepts, or brand direction, the goal is simple: to support and celebrate local businesses through thoughtful creative collaboration.

  • Refine how your business presents itself through thoughtful messaging, positioning, tone of voice, and storytelling that helps customers better connect with your brand.

  • Receive fresh content concepts, campaign ideas, and social storytelling recommendations designed to help your business stand out online in a way that feels authentic and engaging.

  • Explore creative ideas that enhance how customers experience your space — from in-store moments and community concepts to ambiance, seasonal experiences, and customer touchpoints.

  • Get support naming menu items, seasonal specials, offerings, or campaigns in a way that feels memorable, on-brand, and culturally relevant to your audience.

  • Receive a tailored creative concept designed around a current business goal, launch, promotion, or challenge — helping bring fresh perspective to how your business shows up.

  • Gain thoughtful creative direction around your brand aesthetic, visual identity, mood, and overall customer perception to help strengthen consistency and recognition.

  • Discover new ways to bring people into your space through creative event concepts, collaborations, recurring experiences, and community-driven activations.

  • Sometimes all you need is a second set of creative eyes. Share a challenge you’re facing and receive thoughtful feedback, strategic ideas, and actionable next steps.

how it works

Think of your challenge

Tell me about one creative problem, idea, or opportunity your business is currently navigating. From branding, events, interior, to social storytelling, no challenge is too small.

Submit your creative brief

Fill out a short form with details about your business, goals, and what kind of creative support would feel most valuable right now.

Thoughtful review

I’ll review submissions and identify where I can provide the most impactful creative direction, fresh perspective, or strategic support.

Neighborhood edit

If selected, your business will become part of The Neighborhood Edit and we’ll collaborate on a tailored creative solution designed to elevate your brand experience.

Let's work together

If you're interested in working with me, please complete the form with a few details about your project.