Lifestyle journalism provides writers with a unique opportunity to connect deeply with readers. Through empathy and human connection, lifestyle journalists often become trendsetting friends to their audiences, making a positive impact. I had the pleasure of interviewing Aida M. Toro, a professional journalist and New Jersey native, who is an alumnus of New Jersey City University and is currently based in New York City. We discussed what makes her role as a freelance lifestyle journalist stand out.”There’s beauty all around us,” Aida notes, “and we need to see it. Every article of clothing, pair of shoes, piece of jewelry, and beauty product that complements our style tells a story.”
“As readers, we recognize that in today’s ever-evolving world and cultural climate, journalism is an essential profession. So, what drew Aida Toro to the field? Aida shared, “I was inspired to be a journalist because I started writing stories in marble notebooks at a very young age—5 years old, to be exact. I loved flipping through my mom’s magazines, which were filled with stunning fashion editorials. My dad taught me to read and write at the age of 4.5 when I resisted attending preschool, and he became my first and best teacher.” She continued, “After that, I became hooked. My parents would replace my marble notebooks twice a month because I was always creating stories. In the ’90s, waiting for magazines to arrive in the mail was the norm. My dad even went into the city to buy magazines so I could cut out images for my stories. Fast forward to 2024, and the rest is history.”
I asked Aida about the important elements of storytelling in journalism. She explained, “In my journalistic experience, the key elements of telling a story are to always present the facts, confirm everything with your source, and make your headlines stand out. By confirming details with your source, you ensure the story is authentic and honest. Additionally, finding a unique angle is essential. It ensures your story isn’t the same as others, especially when covering a person or brand that has already been featured. You really want to explore an angle that hasn’t been covered before to make your work stand out.”
Readers may be curious about different paths in journalism. In addition to lifestyle journalism, Aida has expanded her career into copywriting, using her unique skill set to branch out into this profession. She shared,“What drew me to copywriting was working retail at Urban Outfitters—my very first job at age 20—while I was a junior in college pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Journalism.” She continued, “ I was always interested in fashion, so combining my love for copywriting, fashion, and retail business felt ideal. In 2022, I started doing brand copywriting for one of the top shoe brands —Schutz. Taking a chance, I reached out to their HR partner and team, who appreciated my journalistic work. Schutz has remained my top copywriting client, and I couldn’t be more grateful for how much we’ve grown together.”
Curious, I asked Aida what makes lifestyle journalism special. She replied, “What I love about being a lifestyle journalist is that I get to tell stories about everything I enjoy—from people to fashion, fitness, wellness, dining, and more. I’ve always been a people person and believe everyone has an interesting story to tell.”
She added, “There are so many inspiring figures, like artists, athletes, models, and rising talents, whose stories deserve to be heard. Health and wellness have always been priorities for me, as I grew up playing sports. Dining out is also a passion—I’ve explored everything from upscale venues to hidden gems in NYC, NJ, and beyond. Lifestyle journalism is the perfect niche because it lets me share these experiences with readers.”
She also emphasizes the connection journalists have with each other, highlighting one of the best parts of being a journalist in one of the greatest cities—New York. She said, “The best part is connecting with fellow journalists and creatives at press events you’re invited to. You never know who you’re going to meet, as we all help one another in terms of opportunities. Not to mention, all of my favorite magazines, from Interview to Vogue, Cosmo, Elle, and others, have always been published in NYC. That’s another reason why I feel being a journalist in the city is such a bonus.”
We all have a role in society, and we can contribute to our communities by sharing our stories. Aida M. Toro says, “Telling a story is meaningful because it can reveal so much about anything or anyone. I believe everything in life has a story, and that’s what makes life beautiful. What better way to contribute to making the world even more beautiful than by telling a story?”
Human interest stories foster human connection. Toro explains, “’The best human interest stories come from an individual’s journey, exploring who they are, why they do what they do, the obstacles they have faced, and so much more.”
When I asked Aida what makes a story connect with readers, she concluded, “I believe readers are drawn to a good, catchy headline that’s relevant to their lives — whether it’s a guide to sustainable weight loss, tips on coping with a breakup, recommendations for the best restaurants for a girls’ night out in NYC, advice on dressing for your body shape, or other relatable topics.”
Within the writing industry, it is also important to remember that everyone has a story. Aida M. Toro says, “ Telling everyone’s story is important because everyone deserves to be heard and for their side of the story to be told in a true and authentic manner.”
She also hopes the younger generations continue to be inspired by the crucial importance of journalism. Aida replied, “I really hope more college students pursue journalism as a degree, for print magazines to make a major comeback, and for people to utilize all forms of media that contribute to journalism in an authentic way that won’t ruin anyone’s reputation.”
Thank you, Aida M. Toro, for your exclusive insights to Social The Lifestyle Magazine.
Freelance Services that Aida Toro provides includes: editorial work and brandcopy-writing freelance services.
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Additional Credits
Photography: Jana Schuessler
Hair & Makeup: Tania Bogun