Marie Kelly

in her own words…

Fear was the determining factor in my decision to study English in UCD after school rather than go to art college. I was convinced I wasn’t cool enough, creative enough or outgoing enough to survive in an artsy environment so instead, I fled for the anonymity of a giant lecture hall in the UCD Arts block where I earned a BA in English and History and then an MA in English.

Now, 28 years later, I’ve been accepted onto an MA in NCAD, beginning in September, and although I still worry that I’m not cool enough, creative enough or outgoing enough, I’ve learnt to face my fears and just do it anyway. This is one thing I’ve discovered on my journey from 20-odd-year-old to 40-something; we’re all smarter and stronger than we think.

I’ve worked on glossy magazines since the late nineties, beginning in London at Hearst where I sub-edited, wrote features and assisted on fashion and interiors shoots for Country Living Magazine. I adored my time there and think about the wonderful women I worked with often; they shaped me professionally. Since returning to Dublin in 2005, I’ve had full-time roles with The Mail On Sunday, The Gloss and IMAGE Media, while contributing to the Irish Independent, The Irish Times, Cara magazine and IMAGE Interiors & Living. I feel very fortunate that in my career I’ve been able to combine my love of words with my passion for fashion. 

In recent years, I’ve diversified into podcasting and hosting live events. At these times, I often think that if my 20-something self could see me now her eyes would open wide in awe. She would look at me and think I was a great success, I’m sure. Of course, when you arrive at mid-life “success” is a much more nuanced idea. There are days when I think I’m doing okay, others when I think I’m flying, and some when I feel like a total loser. But that’s just life and I’m pretty sure it’s the same for all of us.

I have five amazing siblings (three sisters and two brothers), all of whom I’m close to and love spending time with. I’m not married, nor do I have children. I’m lucky enough to live with my mother and our rescue dog Ruby.

I have five amazing siblings (three sisters and two brothers), all of whom I’m close to and love spending time with. I’m not married, nor do I have children. I’m lucky enough to live with my mother and our rescue dog Ruby.

Running and walking helps me to stay fit and positive, and every summer I make sure to swim in the baltic Irish sea because I feel like a rock star afterwards. 

I watch far too much Say Yes To The Dress, and my idea of "happy hour" is a glass of red wine in front of the fire watching an old movie or a Netflix original.