Welcome Editorial Director Susan Brierly Bush

Welcome! When will you officially begin your position as editor-in-chief?

I’m really enthusiastic about this new role. My first project will be the October issue, which was actually finalized in August. So I’ve been planning, interviewing and writing for a few months.

Why are you a good fit for My Mo-Town?

It’s a natural match. My Mo-Town’s focus is Morristown, Morris Township, Harding and Mendham. My husband, Robert, and I have lived in Mendham for decades. We also own a Harding Township retail business specializing in vintage and antique home décor, so we collaborate with homeowners and designers throughout the Morristown area. I believe I have my finger on the pulse of the community because I chat with local people every day.

What are your editorial plans for the magazine?

Future issues will feature monthly events, engaging human-interest stories, dining and nightlife, inspiring homes and gardens, and local stylemakers and volunteers. We live in an idyllic part of the world, and the magazine will celebrate the Morristown lifestyle, expand friendships, promote creativity and inspire readers to give back.

Which feature are you especially excited about?

I’ve planned an engaging monthly feature, called “Three’s a Party,” a virtual cocktail soiree introducing three interesting local personalities. Designed with a retro Mad Men vibe, the spread asks guests to share their signature cocktail, favorite travel destination, interests and hobbies. I hope readers will look forward to each new issue as they meet fascinating neighbors. 

What led up to this new role for you?

I first worked for Wainscot Media 18 years ago, helping launch NJ CEO business magazine alongside founder Carroll Dowden. Today, Carroll’s son, Mark Dowden, is the CEO—and now he’s my new boss. It feels like coming home. Mark and I also happen to live a stone’s throw from each other, which makes the experience even more neighborly.

In which section of Mendham do you reside?

Robert and I call historic Brookside in Mendham Township home. Our house—and the big green barn beside it—are more than 200 years old and listed on the historic register. Together, we’re a bit like the Brady Bunch, with six grown children between us and one rescued fur baby named Jack.

How did you fill your time between working for NJ CEO and accepting your new position with My Mo-Town?

I was a freelance writer, editor and photo stylist during that time. For 16 years, I was the style editor of Park Place, NJ Bride and NJ Monthly, focusing on homes, gardens, entertaining, fashion, and health and beauty. During that time, I was fortunate to meet tastemakers like Anna Wintour, Albert Hadley, Jonathan Adler and Bunny Williams. It was all very fun and exciting.

Have you always been a journalist?

Yes. My undergraduate degree was in public relations and journalism. Then I earned my graduate degree in marketing while working in corporate communications and special events management. Later, I raised my two sons while freelancing as a corporate writer and marketing communications consultant. 

You have a decidedly artistic focus. Tell us about that.

I’ve always been especially interested in visual arts and interior design. Several years ago, I was a content creator for Sotheby’s Fine Art auction house and then earned an art history certificate from Sotheby’s Institute of Art. Later, I studied at the New York School of Interior Design and also did coursework through MoMA. I naturally think about words and design together. Even while writing an article, I’m already imagining how it will look on the page. I’m excited to work with the talented Wainscot Media team to tell the stories that make this community such a special place to call home.

Photograph by Christopher Shenise