Sharon Stello is an award-winning journalist, recently starting to explore the freelance writing and editing world after more than a decade working for newspapers and then switching to magazines. Most recently, she served as editor of Laguna Beach and Newport Beach magazines at Firebrand Media—where she worked for over 11 years—penning all types of articles on topics from food to travel, home design, fitness, the arts and community news. Her favorites are stories about people overcoming challenges and articles that educate the reader in some way. She received first place for Best Feature story in 2025 and Best Long Form Feature or Series in 2022, both from the Orange County Press Club. In her spare time, she plays clarinet in a community band and has her hands full with a newly adopted puppy.