ABOUT MARKIE

Markie Lee Hayes is a picture book author, marketing director, and content creator based in Wake Forest, North Carolina. She is the creator of Around the Forest and The Forest Awards, where she champions local businesses, celebrates community connections, and advocates for inclusion. In 2025, she was honored with the Town of Wake Forest’s Good Neighbor Award for her dedication to making her community a better place. Her writing has also been recognized through various contests, scholarships, and mentorship programs.

When she’s not writing, Markie is raising two boys who keep life wonderfully interesting. Motherhood has deeply influenced her storytelling, inspiring stories that celebrate imagination, empathy, inclusion, and the unique perspectives every child brings to the world. Her family’s shared love of picture books continues to shape her belief in the power of stories to foster connection, understanding, and belonging.

MARKETING

On the marketing end of the spectrum, Markie specializes in social media management and content creation. Highlighting local businesses and creating a personal connection with the community. Checkout a glimpse at her work HERE.