DLA Q&A: Maia Merritt

Maia Merritt is a vibrant and creative voice in Downtown Lincoln. 

BY MARCUS FERTIG

Her passion for storytelling, visual media, and community connection shines through in the work she does for the community. 

Since joining the Downtown Lincoln Association, she has played a pivotal role in amplifying the voices of local businesses, bringing energy and authenticity to DLA marketing efforts.  Whether she is behind the camera, creating impressive marketing campaigns, or working hands-on with local business people, she is a priceless asset to Downtown Lincoln and an incredible person to work with.

Q: How long have you been with the Downtown Lincoln Association and what led you to this job?

A: I’ve been with Downtown Lincoln for just over a year now. It all started when I was finishing up college and trying to find a “big girl job.” I had always loved doing social media and marketing work, so this seemed like a perfect fit.  Before this,  I worked for the state doing an internship with the Nebraska Department of Economic Development which gave me great experience.  I also worked on campus with Student Affairs and New Student Enrollment, and with Barstool Sports, which was a blast and helped me learn a lot about digital media.  In college, I definitely changed my mind a lot, I changed my major five times!  Every step of the way led me closer to what I really wanted, and eventually it all worked out.  

Q: What is your role with DLA?

A: My official title is Marketing Coordinator.  I support all of our marketing efforts and enhance Downtown Lincoln’s  presence in the community.  I manage our social media platforms, send out a monthly newsletter, update our website, and much more.  I stay in close contact with any downtown business who may need marketing support of any kind.  Whether it is social media promotion, help with event planning, or designing posters, I am happy to help.  There is always something new going on which keeps things exciting.  

Merritt working at Barstool Sports.

Q: What is a part of your job that people may not realize?

A: One thing people don't realize often is how many businesses that are in our Downtown Lincoln BID (Business Improvement District). There are over 900 businesses here that we keep tabs on and offer support to in various ways. It’s easy to underestimate that number when you’re walking around downtown, but behind the scenes, it’s a lot of moving parts.  It isn't just the events or marketing, we have real and personal relationships with so many business owners downtown, and it is our job to make sure they are seen and supported in the downtown community.  

Q: What is your favorite project or proudest accomplishment with Downtown Lincoln?

A: One project that will always stick out to me is working on the Holiday Gift Guide last winter.  It was one of my first major projects that I took the lead on,  and I learned so much.  It was very stressful but at the same time so fun.  I was reaching out to so many different businesses, organizing submissions, keeping everything on schedule. It was a lot of hard work, but it taught me so much. There were definitely moments where it felt overwhelming, but seeing the final product come together was amazing.  It turned out great, and I was so proud of the work. That project gave me a huge boost of confidence and made me feel like, “Okay, I can really do this.”

Photo #3 if possible

Merritt with Chewy, a co-worker's pet bearded dragon.

Q: What is your favorite part of your job?

A: My coworkers.  I genuinely  always look forward to coming into work because of everyone I work with.  Everyone is so kind and supportive.  I have worked in many collaborative spaces but here feels much different.  It feels like we are a family here.   In the office we always have a fun time, we love to joke around and have fun.  Our meetings are usually filled with laughs, and there are so many pets that stop into our office which always keeps things exciting.

Q: What are your hobbies outside of work?

A: Outside of work, I have a small photography business.  I love to take pictures so it just kind of happened naturally.  Over time, people started asking me to take their senior photos, or I have done greek life pinning and taken photos for local Lincoln bands.  I also love traveling and I have been fortunate enough to have been to all of the places I’ve gone to in my life. My family and I go out of the country at least once a year and it’s so cool to experience and see something new.  I also enjoy video editing.  When I travel, I always try to make a video recap, I just started to do vlog style.  I enjoy the process of editing, it's a great creative outlet for me, and it is so fun to have something to look back on and remember those moments by.