Tara Coomans
Founder & President
Tara Coomans is a creative leader who possesses the unique ability to develop strategies that drive action. Tara started her agency in 2008 because she is passionate about driving results in a nimble, digitally smart environment that moves objectives forward for clients. Throughout her career, she has spearheaded viral campaigns, hosted and designed hundreds of events, secured essential TV and print coverage, and guided clients through complicated PR situations and messaging. Tara’s ability to “read the room,” is her secret weapon. She serves as the primary point of contact for our clients, the creative vision of the campaigns, and the analytical enforcer ensuring we meet not only your expectations but our own.
Laura Nystrom
VP Communication Strategy
Laura cut her teeth at world-renowned PR firm Fleishman-Hillard, then worked in-house PR at one of the world’s most famous telescopes in Hawaii. Laura translates technology and science, business to business and detailed messaging better than anyone else. From reputation management to crisis communications, Laura sees solutions that drive brand value. Her insight into communication strategy is only matched by her over 10 years’ experience in digital marketing and analytics, making her a perfect fit for Avaans’ digital forward PR approach. Laura’s ability to manage details with professionalism and consistency makes her a standout and someone you want on your team.
Justin Simon
Vice President of Messaging & Content
Justin’s talent is cutting through the noise and finding the connective tissue in messaging. Owing to his background Fox Sports, Justin is our on-camera eyes and ears for video content. Justin never settles, his critical eye and emotional intelligence allows him to cut through the noise and strike right at the purpose. From written copy to complete presentation, Justin is an indispensable member of our PR content team.
Lara Miller
Senior Public Relations Director
With deep experience in consumer tech PR, and executive PR, Lara always gets her media placement. She excels at telling stories national media outlets want to tell because she’s tenacious and cued into media trends. Lara leverages her relationships at every turn to develop great stories for game-changing people and products.
Melissa Vitale
Senior Public Relations Director
New York-based Melissa ensures our clients have a presence in the media epicenter of the US. Melissa is a laser-focused publicist, nimble enough to catch daily opportunities and strategic enough to plan for press months in advance. Melissa excels in emerging markets that require laser-focused, brand consistent and groundbreaking media pitching.
Kathy Kwon
Sr. Public Relations Director
L.A.-based Kathy has her eye on the consumer’s pulse and cultural touchstones which is what makes her so great at earning media for consumer goods and social impact programs. Kathy excels at dialing into the emotional connection to develop memorable, sophisticated stories.
Shelley Simpson
Community & Social Engagement Manager
A creative and emotionally intelligent natural communicator, Shelley is the day-to-day delight providing community management and social media implementation. Her eye for opportunity is unmatched and when she’s at the keyboard, she drives loyalty and passion for your brand.
Howard Daniels
Editor
Piia Aarma
PR Advisor
Jason Kama
Web & Digital Design
Laura Dvir
Print Design & Branding
Sarah Lewis
Social Media Specialist
Meredith Mcilmoyle
Event Activation Specialist
Heidi Carreon
Digital Communications Specialist
LOS ANGELES | DENVER | NEW YORK
Public Relations for Purpose Driven Brands
