Meet the Team - Black Romance Book Fest Inc
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Meet the Team

Behind every unforgettable BRBF experience is a passionate team of professionals, creatives, and problem-solvers working year-round to bring the event to life. From programming and logistics to marketing, partnerships, accessibility, and attendee experience, our team is dedicated to creating a weekend that celebrates Black stories, builds community, and leaves every guest feeling seen, welcomed, and inspired. Get to know the people helping make BRBF 2027 our best year yet.

Lauren Lacey

Lauren Lacey
Event Organizer

Lauren Lacey is an indie Romance author, avid reader, and a Digital Marketing leader. She currently serves as the Digital Director for a Fortune 300 and served as the Global Web Experience Manager for one of the Big 4. She was previously the Marketing Manager for the Mastercard Gift Cards and AMEX Gift Cards, as well as the Digital Manager behind one of the largest mobile tech events, in which she forged lasting relationships that helped catapult her dreams of launching her former company, a black-owned business directory and marketing firm for small BIPOC-owned businesses, Urban Business Directory. Within 1 year, Urban Business Directory served as the Marketing partner for over 125 entrepreneurs and small businesses. In 2021, Lacey was a part of the Forbes 2021 Next 1000, a curated selection of entrepreneurs and professionals who transform lives and seek to make great impacts for change. Other notable features include Voyage Magazine, Shoutout Atlanta, WABE, Atlanta Voice, HBCU Connect, 11Alive News, and Black News.

Natashia Crawford Comms Manager

Natashia, known online as thebookish_wife on Instagram and TikTok, has joined the team as our superstar Communications Liaison. Nat manages all author, vendors, and press communications. She is joyfully married to her real-life “Book Bae” and has nurtured a passion for reading since the 5th grade—a hobby she has maintained ever since. Her favorite genres are Romance, suspense, and Historical fiction. Additionally, Natashia dreams of becoming a children’s book author someday, bringing her unique voice to the next generation of readers. Natashia is a valuable asset to BRBF and we’re honored to have her on the team.

Raylin Weathersby Social Media Director

Raylin is the owner of Hatima Media, a social media management company. Her journey into social media management began with a love for capturing the moment. It all started with a YouTube channel she created with her cousin one summer. From there, she channeled her passions into high school clubs like creative writing and the yearbook club. That’s when she realized that this wasn’t just a hobby with her phone—it was her future career. Raylin, the oldest of three siblings, has a big personality despite being naturally shy. Her favorite color is green, and she loves a good banter in books; if there is no banter, there is no Raylin. She is also the proud pet parent of three fur babies: Midnight, Luna, and Athena. We’re thrilled to have Raylin a part of the Black Romance Book Festival team.

Zevi Lacey
Operations Manager

Zevi Lacey serves as the Non-Profit Funding and Operations Manager for BRBF, where he oversees funding initiatives and onsite logistics to keep the festival running seamlessly. A U.S. Army veteran and operations professional with a strong background in quality and supply chain management, Zevi also recently stepped into the world of indie romance writing. His mix of structure, leadership, and creativity makes him a vital part of the BRBF team. He’s also he hubby of our Event Organizer so reeling her in is also a part of his job responsibilities.
Dominique

Dominique Ross
Event Lead

Dominique is a DMV native who is passionate about all things Black and marketing. I’m a Bowie State graduate and a mom to a 4 year old Presa Canario named Apollo. I love all things DIY, weight lifting, and ice cream #treatyourself. You can always find me in the gym, in a book, rewatching Living Single or spending quality time with friends and family.
Kay Cureton

Kay Cureton
Marketing Manager

Hey hey, it’s your girl Kay; a bookish content creator, poet, and your favorite short-cut pixie baddie. I love sharing my passion for reading, writing poetry, and the stories that make us feel seen. When I’m not lost in a book or writing a poem, you can find me at hot yoga or connecting with fellow book lovers.

Jai Lawson Social Media Specialist

Meet Jai, our Social Media Specialist! Jai is a graphic visionary, the TBR whisperer, and some may know her as the lady with the gavel because she mean business. She loves to showcase black authors no matter the genre because she likes her books like how she loves her men…BLACK! And she’s always down for a kiki and a good time.
Rese Alisa

Rese Pendleton
Comms Specialist

Rese Alisa is a digital marketing professional, communications specialist , podcast host, and passionate literary advocate dedicated to amplifying the voices of Black authors, audiobook narrators, and independent bookstores. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and Marketing, combining her expertise in storytelling, marketing, and audience engagement to create impactful campaigns and meaningful community connections. Throughout her career, Rese has collaborated with nationally recognized brands and events, including ESSENCE Festival, NFL Draft, Moët Hennessy, The Coca-Cola Company, LEGO, Mattel, SirDavis, and L’Oréal, developing and executing marketing initiatives that connect brands with diverse audiences. Rese is also the creator and host of The ReseSet Podcast, where she engages in meaningful conversations centered on books, culture, creativity, and personal growth. When she’s not immersed in marketing or communications, you’ll find her enjoying audiobook walks, exploring independent bookstores, adding to her ever-growing TBR (to-be-read) list, or relaxing with a coloring book.

Tiffany Cotton Event Tech Specialist

Tiffany is the Event Tech Specialist for the Black Romance Book Fest. She’s passionate about creating memorable moments, organizing impactful events, and making every guest feel valued. With a background in planning and community engagement, Tiffany helps bring the BRBF vision to life.

Alexis

Alexis Purdy
Event Support Specialist

Hi everyone! My name is Alexis Purdy, and I’m excited to be a part of the team. I’m passionate about events and love being involved in experiences that bring people together. Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to help with a variety of events including dinners, sports camps, and golf tournaments, but this will be my first festival and I’m incredibly excited. It’s an honor to be part of something that celebrates and represents the impact of Black creatives and highlights the talent and stories within our community.
Jewel Lacey

Jewel Lacey Event Designer

Mama Jewel works hard on BRBF 365 days a year. From onsite setup to swag bag curation, Jewel has her hand on the most crucial elements of the event. Her creativity and hard work help bring the vision of BRBF to life and create memorable experiences for attendees, authors, and partners alike. Whether she’s behind the scenes organizing details or stepping in wherever needed, Jewel pours her heart into making the festival feel special, welcoming, and unforgettable.

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