intuitive, constructive and considered editing for creative humans.

Let’s be honest: writing is hard. It’s glorious and frustrating and transformative and illuminating, but, above all, it is hard.

That’s where Under the Stairs Editorial comes in.

Whatever your medium and wherever you are on your writing path, an editor is both coach and cheerleader in helping you achieve your writing goals.

We empower writers to elevate their craft and publish their work with authenticity and confidence.

Come, step into the studio under the stairs (mind your head), and let’s work together to take your words to the next level.

our services.

Writing a book is an enormous undertaking and it can be overwhelming knowing what to do next. Whether you plan to self-publish or pursue traditional publishing, an editor can help you strengthen your story and ensure it meets a high editorial standard. Present your readers with a quality that reflects all your hard work.

EXPLORE MANUSCRIPT SERVICES

Content editing helps entrepreneurs, business owners, content creators and writers to establish trust with their customers and clients and publish their work with authenticity and confidence. We take your words and ensure they are delivered to your audience clearly, consistently, error-free and, importantly, on brand.

EXPLORE CONTENT SERVICES

The media industry is not what it used to be, but the workload and quality expectations haven’t changed. A subeditor is the most effective player in reducing stress on journalists and editors, ensuring a high editorial standard, and is your best defense against errors that could lead to reputational, legal and financial damage.

EXPLORE SUBEDITING SERVICES

“The beautiful part of writing is that you don’t have to get it right the first time — unlike, say, a brain surgeon.”

— ROBERT CORMIER

our story.

It’s a tale of the times.

Take one pandemic, a changing media industry and an editor who frankly couldn’t stomach the thought of job searching, and Under the Stairs Editorial was born.

Carlie Slattery has been an editor for seventeen years. She lives and breathes the written word, and can’t believe her luck that she gets to do her favourite thing — read — for a living.

MEET THE EDITOR

kind words from clients.

Samantha Wills, writer + founder, Samantha Wills Institute

“Working with Carlie has made me a better writer and creative. Carlie understands and respects the writer’s style and uniqueness, and she nurtures that so beautifully in her editing. No matter the project I am working on — masterclass or manuscript — none of my work goes out into the world until it has passed through Carlie’s hands. I trust her implicitly with my words and not only does she make me a better writer professionally, on a personal level, simply put, I just adore working with her!”
Steph Pase, CEO + founder, Steph Pase Planners

“Carlie is above exceptional in her work, and we are so grateful to have her play such an important role for our stationery business, in which grammar and editing are vital for all our products. Her attention to detail and timely manner are incredible, along with her beautiful and bubbly personality. She is an absolute pleasure to work with, and her services are something we will continue to have as a part of our company’s processes.”
Karly Lane, bestselling author

“If you’re looking for an awesome editor, I can wholeheartedly recommend Under the Stairs Editorial. I recently worked with Carlie on Accidentally Working Class and was so happy with the results. Great attention to detail, reliable and easy to work with.”
Justine McClymont, copywriter

“Carlie is my go-to editor and proofreader. She is an absolute joy to deal with — professional, responsive, supportive and super good at what she does. With a keen eye for detail, Carlie is skilled at editing and proofreading all types of written work. Working with Carlie has made me a better writer. I would 100% recommend her!”
Emma Pei Yin, emerging author

“I adored working with Carlie. As a writer, it’s difficult to detach yourself from your craft so that you view it through a more critical lens. It makes it almost impossible to find the gaps for improvement. That’s where Carlie came into the picture for me. She not only engaged with me and my work in a positive and uplifting way, but she was also highly motivated and dedicated to jumping on board the journey with me. From our serendipitous meeting via social media, I just knew she would be a source of encouragement, guidance and professional assistance to the work I do. My writing journey has only just begun, and without a doubt, where the choice is mine, I will always work with her.”
Elena Duggan, cook, educator + creative

“Carlie was gentle and kind when listening to my jumble of ideas and offered appropriate and professional advice on how to approach the content I needed to present. She was incredibly efficient and thorough, and maintained my voice while enhancing and improving it. Carlie easily adapted as my needs changed and was able to present the same content in an entirely different tone, which was greatly appreciated. While my own business has changed, along with many others, during the pandemic, Carlie’s assistance, reassurance, expertise and enthusiasm has supported my pivot and given me confidence I didn't know I was needing. I’m already looking forward to when I next get to work with her. ”
Shannon Kendrick, founder, Caring with Carers

“Carlie is the ultimate professional. She is not only reliable, but also efficient and always provides great feedback. Working with Carlie is a dream, and we are lucky to have her.”