My Picks Are Based on My Experience 

Amelia during a run on the beach

Experience. That’s what is behind my FRESHJUICE + bubbly picks and services. With that said, here’s what you need to know about my background as a wellness journalist (and blogger) and fitness professional — and why I care about wellness:

  • In 2004, I earned my degree in magazine journalism from the University of Georgia. Although I’ve always worked in communications and marketing, it wasn’t until 2012 that I decided to dip my toe in the freelance writing water. I was 28, divorced, and trying to figure out what to do with the next chapter of my life. Since my second year of college, I’d worked as a certified fitness teacher and had taught classes ranging from step aerobics to cycling. Also, I’d always wanted to write for lifestyle magazines. Marrying my love for writing with my love for wellness went together like truffles and pasta. So, I came up with the Fit & Well Atlanta Belle (FWAB) blog, which focused on fitness and wellness in Atlanta (where I live) and beyond. 

  • FWAB showcased my ability to write about fitness and wellness travel, which resulted in assignments for outlets including American Spa, Wander Wellness Travel Magazine, American Fitness Magazine, Fitness Magazine, and Vacayou Magazine. I’ve also been interviewed for articles in outlets including NBCNews.com. (In 2020, I retired FWAB to launch GJB.)

  • I fell in love with spas in my teens, thanks to a gift from my dad to visit my first spa. As a wellness journalist, I’ve now visited more than 50 spas from Park City, Utah, to Prague, Czech Republic. (Check out the entire list — which is regularly updated — here.) So, when I share my opinion on spa getaways, treatments, and products that are worth your while, I’m basing my recommendations on first-hand research.

  • My career in the fitness industry has now hit the 20-year mark. I've taught cycling, cardio kickboxing, step, sculpt, barre, and more. And I’ve earned fitness and coaching certifications (yes, I actually coached cheerleading for a few years, too) from Exhale Barre, AFAA (Group Fitness Instructor), Zumba, Keiser Indoor Cycling, Mad Dogg Athletics Spinning, and the American Sports Education Program. Most recently, I spent three years teaching barre and cardio classes at the Atlanta location of the the international Exhale Spa brand. These days, I’m focused on building my FRESHJUICE + bubbly private/corporate/small group barre and cardio clients.

  • My opinions on everything from class trends to activewear are based on my continuing fitness education and knowledge of what products will give me the most bang for my buck. Sometimes the experiences and products I review or provide advice on have been gifted to me, while others are paid for 100% by me. Regardless, know that I am only featuring what I love and want to recommend to you.