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AUSTIN, USA // “Editing is fun - it’s figuring out a fluid puzzle with multiple solves,” says Rachael Connelly, who joined the Union family in 2012. “It’s also an opportunity to give a unique voice to a narrative.”

After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin with dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Radio, Television, Film and Public Relations, Connelly assisted at Butcher Editorial and The Whitehouse, before arriving at Union and editing high-profile campaigns for Ford (Team Detroit; Alex Gibney, director), and Diet Pepsi (TBWA\Chiat \Day; Tarsem, director), among others.

Connelly’s notable editing projects have included Carl’s Jr (via 72 and Sunny), and a pair of campaigns via GSD&M: the award-winning “Kate and Heather” Beauty Campaign for Walgreens, directed by Rachel Goldenberg, and Hilton Garden Inn, starring Judy Greer. She moved back to her hometown several years ago, to start Union Austin. There, she continues to work with agencies all over the US whether crafting comedy spots for Amazon and Farmers Insurance, stylized ads for Alberta Tourism, or fast-paced car commercials for Honda.

“I love telling all kinds of stories - ghost stories, tall tales, bedtime stories,” Connelly says, and this is evidenced by her award-winning feature directorial debut, the documentary, Miss Snake Charmer. The film, which she also edited, covers the true story of an annual beauty pageant held in Sweetwater, Texas, in which the teen contestants must prove their bravery by killing, and skinning, a rattlesnake before showcasing their talents and evening wear. The winner then spends the weekend reigning over pits of live vipers.

When not filming rattlers and beauty queens, Connelly enjoys reading, painting, laughing with her two little girls, and hitting tennis balls out on the court.