ABOUT US
POND TRADE is written by pond experts — authorities in the industry whose backgrounds are as unique and varied as our readers. From Japanese koi farmers to rock and boulder specialists; from outdoor lighting deigners to aquatic botany Ph.D.s; from bloggers to business consultants to purveyors of pumps; these are the people who will shape the pond industry today and into the future. When our readers pick up the newest issue of POND Trade, they know they'll find tips, insights and inspiration straight from the industry's best. It's our job to make sure they never find anything less.
Our goal is not just to entertain pond lovers and report on the industry. At POND Trade, our mission is to actively grow the industry by providing actionable information that empowers and inspires pond professionals. With practical, application-oriented content, we aim to serve the industry directly by helping readers make informed decisions in their designs and building projects.
POND Trade Staff
Lauren Nolan, Publisher
Lauren Nolan is the owner and publisher of POND Trade magazine, a role that perfectly blends her expertise in writing with her deep-rooted passion for the pond industry.
A graduate of The College of New Jersey, Lauren began her career as an English teacher at Bridgewater Raritan Regional High School, where she dedicated ten years to educating and inspiring students. During this time, she also earned a Master’s degree in English and a Supervisor’s Certificate, further honing her skills in communication and leadership.
In 2021, Lauren transitioned into the pond industry as a brand content manager for Fitz’s Fish Ponds. Over the past three years, she played a pivotal role in expanding the company through strategic marketing initiatives, events, and innovative brand development. Her dedication and vision propelled her into the role of vice president at Fitz’s Fish Ponds, where she continues to drive growth and excellence.
Today, as the owner and publisher of POND Trade magazine, Lauren brings a fresh perspective and unwavering enthusiasm to the industry. Her extensive background in writing, combined with her experience in the pond world, allows her to craft engaging content, foster industry connections, and elevate the publication to new heights.
Lauren is always eager to explore new ideas and innovative ways to help grow and expand the pond industry. Whether through insightful articles, industry events, or collaborative efforts, she remains committed to advancing the community she loves.
When she’s not immersed in the world of ponds and publishing, Lauren enjoys spending time with her husband and their two beautiful children, embracing the balance between family and career with the same passion she brings to her work.
lnolan@pondtrademag.com
twitter - @pondtrade
Rae Cauley,
Graphic Designer
Rae Cauley is an award-winning fine artist and seasoned graphic designer from New Jersey, with more than a decade of experience in visual arts and creative design. Since launching her career in 2012, Rae has worked across a range of artistic disciplines, seamlessly blending innovation with strategy to produce bold, engaging visuals.
She currently serves as the newest Graphic Designer for POND Trade Magazine, where she brings her unique artistic perspective and passion for visual storytelling to the publication and the broader pond industry. Since 2022, Rae has also led the creative direction at Fitz’s Fish Ponds as their lead artist, developing impactful branding and designing large-scale murals that have become cornerstones of the company’s identity.
With a sharp eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the pond and water feature industry, Rae is excited to collaborate with the POND Trade team and its vibrant community to craft visually dynamic content that inspires and informs.
Joanne Costin,
Digital Editor
Joanne is an award-winning journalist, content writer and data journalist for leading publications in the construction, foodservice, meat processing and unmanned systems industries. She co-founded Content for Biz in 2011 to provide integrated content marketing and content writing services to B2B marketers and her clients include MTG Media Group, Idaho Potato Commission, MULTIVAC, Alaska Seafood, and the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. She holds a degree in advertising from University of Illinois and an MBA in marketing from DePaul University. When Joanne’s not working you can find her tending to plants on her Chicago rooftop, trying new restaurants or cheering her favorite sports teams. “I’m excited to learn more about the people, business and technology behind the beautiful ponds featured in POND Trade.”
jcostin@contentforbiz.com