Successful PR is similar to matchmaking.
Founders and business leaders crave more meaningful, in-depth coverage—and journalists, too, seek a greater sense of connection with the stories they write. Building strategic and genuine relationships is the only way for both parties to get what they want.
At Persist Publicity, we immerse ourselves in the worlds of our clients, becoming a natural extension of their team and active advocates for their brands. This investment is not only professional—it’s personal—and often sparks years-long friendships and collaborations with our clients. On the media side, we focus on getting to know local Colorado journalists, both as writers and individuals. We then pitch targeted story ideas that resonate with their unique interests, sparking organic storytelling, rather than obligatory coverage.
The result is mutually beneficial and exponentially impactful for our clients. From established arts and community organizations, to innovative food and lifestyle entrepreneurs, we’ve helped dozens of businesses connect with publications that not only cover, but champion, their brands.
Owner / Principal
With nearly 15 years experience in the story-forward fields of public relations, communications and journalism, Jess launched Persist Publicity to tell stories that matter.
After studying and practicing journalism in Upstate New York (including in-depth features about the Latin dance and comedy scenes, but also the all-important guide to finding the best meatball), Jess joined the communications team at Xerox, then found her way to public relations (and Denver) working for Fathom Events, the recognized leader in event cinema distribution. There, she spent over six years leading corporate and consumer PR, with a client list that included top film (Universal, Warner Bros. Sony, etc.) and TV (AMC, BBC, TCM, etc.) studios, world-renowned performing arts organizations (The Metropolitan Opera, Bolshoi Ballet, NT Live, Disney Theatrical, etc.) and many others.
Working for these companies gave Jess the opportunity to tell stories to the masses and make an impact on a national and even global scale. In her time running Persist, Jess has focused her attention on the Colorado community, working with local entrepreneurs, small businesses and mission-driven organizations to secure positive press coverage that drives brand awareness, attention and action.
Jess resides in Aurora with her husband, two kids and dog. She enjoys hiking for a good mountain-top view, frequenting area bakeries and breweries, and finding new experiences or events that connect her to the community.
Jessica Nelson
PR Strategist
With ten years of experience in communications and events, BreAnna is a skilled PR professional, specialized in entertainment programming, project management and customer relations. She is especially passionate about connecting like-minded people through great storytelling.
Originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma, BreAnna moved to Denver in 2014 after taking a gap year to travel and volunteer with various nonprofits in Southeast Asia, Southern Africa and Eastern Europe. Through her travels, some of the most valuable things she learned were humility and an appreciation for humanity around the world.
BreAnna is a people person. She grew up attending and working at summer camps all around Oklahoma, which helped teach her the value of focused, screen-free time to connect with other people and hear their stories, all while spending 90% of your days outdoors.
BreAnna now lives in Littleton with her husband and two young children. While she previously taught and competed as a swing dancer, now you can find her at the occasional social dance night at La Rumba or the Mercury Cafe in Denver.
