About Trailblaze Communications

Elliot spent more than 20 successful years in corporate management operations, mostly as a turnaround specialist, in a variety of industries and major companies before joining Gillies and Zaiser in 1999. Since joining he has represented all facets of travel public relations, including hotel groups, cruise lines, country inns, resort hotels, tour operators, restaurants and destinations. Working largely with clients and limited budgets, Elliot guides and works alongside the staff to create compelling press releases and highly productive press trips as the primary tools for building awareness among consumers, travel agents and group sources, enhanced with media events and attendance at media functions as he fosters strong relationships with productive press. Elliot is active in the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), having served on its Board of Directors in various functions as well as chairing several very successful international conventions. His background in management operations offers our clients the added depth of knowing how best to coordinate and manage multiple programs.

With more than 20 years of experience in travel and hospitality public relations, Lauren has built her career on her strong storytelling skills, creativity, and passion for connecting people and ideas. Prior to her role at Gillies & Zaiser, Lauren headed up public relations efforts for Bald Head Island, a family-friendly resort destination in Southeastern North Carolina. She believes great PR is about more than coverage—it’s about forging authentic relationships with media, clients, and audiences, and finding fresh ways to share stories that inspire people to travel. With an MFA in creative writing from UNC Wilmington, Lauren brings a writer’s eye to every pitch and campaign. She loves thinking creatively about the industry and her clients, always looking for fresh, authentic ways to spark media interest and keep her clients in the spotlight. Lauren is an active member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) reflecting her deep ties within the travel media community.

Jeanne spent more than 25 years managing corporate finances for several major US corporations. She has also successfully started and run her own companies in a variety of industries. Jeanne brings both her financial and management expertise to Gillies and Zaiser and her zeal for developing new ventures. Her love of new experiences and people has brought her into the world of travel, where she promotes destinations and experiences. Since 2018, Jeanne has developed strong connections with the media, and has focused on promoting and hosting press trips, responding to queries, promoting brands, and developing promotional opportunities. Jeanne holds an MBA Finance, MS in Mathematics Education and MA in Educational Leadership.

Jason holds an advanced degree in writing and editing, and during his 15 years in the travel industry he’s written 28+ travel guides and countless travel articles and reviews. He’s worked closely with local, state and national tourism boards; cruise lines; and restaurants and chefs to tell their stories in print, online and for television. Jason provides Trailblaze and our clients with strategic planning and copy that drives results whether it’s a press release, brochure or web copy, or customer communications. He has held leadership positions with SATW (Society of American Travel Writers), served as a corporate advisor and virtual board member, and is an Eagle Scout.