Laura Cooke

Background

About Laura Cooke

I’m a copyeditor and proofreader specializing in cookbooks, craft books, lifestyle titles, and general nonfiction, with additional experience in retail/CRM and brand editorial.With 10+ years in editorial, I work confidently both in manuscript and in layout (InDesign, PDFs, Workfront Proof), ensuring that all elements of copy and design are clear, consistent, and production-ready.My background spans book publishing, e-commerce, and high-volume marketing environments, and I’m especially skilled at balancing precision with speed under tight deadlines.Open to freelance and full-time editorial opportunities in publishing and brand content.Highlights:•Proofread 50+ CRM and paid social assets per week for national retail campaigns (Walmart), providing final sign-off before delivery•Longstanding freelance work on cookbooks, craft titles, and lifestyle nonfiction•Former managing/senior editor overseeing books from concept through production•Acknowledged by author James Gavin in his book George Michael: A Life—"Laura Cooke surpassed any copyeditor I have ever worked with."Core strengths:•Proofreading and copyediting in designed pages•Recipe structure, measurements, and consistency•Craft/how-to and instructional content clarity•Style guide creation and enforcement (Chicago, AP, custom styles)•Fact-checking names, brands, and references•Maintaining consistency across captions, callouts, and back matter•I’ve worked with publishers including Abrams Books and Simon & Schuster, and I’m known for being thorough, collaborative, and highly reliable under pressure.I’m always happy to connect with managing editors, production teams, and content leads in need of editorial support.