Rachel Hayes Joins Like Media

Homegrown energy meets next-level vision

By Like Media Team

When you think of the South Sound, you think of salt air, mountain views, small-town pride, and a community that shows up for each other. That same spirit is what Rachel Hayes brings as she steps into her new role as Marketing Executive for Gig Harbor Living Local and 253 Lifestyle Magazine. Born and raised in Gig Harbor, Rachel doesn’t just know the area—she lives the Pacific Northwest lifestyle threading through every South Sound community. She’s shopped local boutiques, cheered at waterfront festivals, snowboarded at Crystal Mountain, and stood on fishing vessels during the Blessing of the Fleet. Her deep roots and broad connections make her uniquely positioned to help businesses across the 253 (and beyond) tell their stories in ways that resonate.

Rachel’s roots run deep, but her vision reaches far. With over a decade of experience in real estate and community marketing, she blends authenticity with strategy. Her passion? Helping local businesses not only survive, but thrive. “Being born and raised in Gig Harbor means I don’t just know this community—I’m part of it,” Rachel shares. “When I approach marketing here, it isn’t about a generic campaign. It’s about telling the stories that matter to us, because they’re my stories too.”

That heart is fueling Like Media’s next chapter. Rachel is teaming up with longtime powerhouse Rebecca Baczewski, creating a dynamic partnership that balances Rachel’s homegrown insight with Rebecca’s deep magazine expertise. Together, they’re shaping a team that will drive Like Media’s growth across Pierce County, Kitsap, and beyond.

Rachel also brings a sharp digital perspective. She sees SEO, social media, and online engagement as game-changers for small businesses. She plans to merge the timeless impact of print with the reach of digital, making Gig Harbor Living Local and 253 Lifestyle must-reads in both print and digital. Think interactive features, QR codes linking to local spotlights, and campaigns that bridge the gap between coffee-table keepsake and digital community hubs.

Looking ahead, Rachel is helping Like Media set its sights on 2026 with a vision rooted in connection. Instead of chasing clicks or impressions, the focus is on building bridges—between businesses and neighbors, between timeless print and digital, and between the traditions that define Washington towns and the new voices shaping their future. The goal is clear: to deepen the magazines’ role as a trusted hub where businesses shine, stories are preserved, and the community sees itself reflected with authenticity. That’s why she’s committed to keeping Like Media authentic, ensuring every page, feature, and story reflects the people and traditions that make the South Sound unique.

Lightning Round with Rachel

Go-to coffee order:

“Williams Patrick’s drive-thru — they know me before I get to the window! A 24-oz iced Americano with 4 Stevia and heavy cream.”

Weekend happy place:

“In summer, I garden, float in the pool, host friends, or play pickleball, with breakfast at Netshed or Devoted Kiss and date nights at Brix or Morso. In winter, I snowboard at Crystal Mountain or cozy up with my boyfriend, our dog, a movie, and the fireplace.”

Hype song before a big meeting:

“Depends on my mood—I love all music. I grew up singing in church with my dad, who was (fun fact) Waylon Jennings’ bass player. Music is in my blood, so whether upbeat or soulful, I’m usually singing my way into the right headspace.”

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