The nightlife and entertainment business has many players. From the venue owners, restaurant managers, general managers, DJs, bartenders, talent (be it models, actors or performers) and of course the publicists, not to be confused with promoters, who make it their job to inform the general public about what’s going on.

Meet Candice Mackel or simply Candice Nicole as she is known. This self-started promoter turned publicist has been informing the DMV about what’s happening in the nightlife scene along with shedding light on talented local artists and designers in the area. Representing artists like rapping newcomer Don Juan (who recently signed to NU Ent/Battery Records/JIVE), events such as R&B Live DC and the DMV Jam Session along with lending her expertise to publications like Elite DC Magazine and even fashion boutiques, Candice Nicole is nobody’s promoter…she just makes sure you’re talking about what she’s pitching.

This PR girl got started like many of us, faking it until we made it, “[It was] June 20, 2007; me and my friend Meghan D., she’ s a singer. We went to Love when DMX was there. She ran into somebody from Cassie‘s camp and we played this game like you’re the singer, I’m the publicist.”

From there, Candice Nicole found her passion. Seeing how much respect she received from people in the industry as a publicist, she left promoting venues such as Love, Republic Gardens and Be Bar and turned public relations into a full-time hustle. “[Promoting] definitely helped me because I knew the promoters and I called many of them my friends…[I had met] the managers, met the owners of different clubs and you start to learn your way around the city; that circle nightlife, it can be a bit much.”

But learning that nightlife circle is precisely why Candice Nicole stands out, representing many local artists and events. “I’m in the streets. They see me; they see my face. It’s one thing if they see your name behind the email, but when they actually see you out at the events and see what you do, then they’re like okay well maybe I need to go to her.”

Still, there are many obstacles when it comes to the publicity game. Besides distinguishing herself from promoters, Candice Nicole sets herself apart from being one of the few females in the nightlife industry, “I can only count on my hand [the number of women], there’s probably more. Yodit [of Talk of DC] is one…I know there’s other women…but women who stick out? It’s really the men that stick out.

“I think sometimes men are intimidated by a woman in a position-of-power making decisions. Recently I had an incident with security and he was rude… I think he had a problem with taking direction. Some guys want to work with me, they embrace it, they see what I’m doing and they like it.”

And those that do like to work with Candice Nicole know her network is large. From connections throughout the DMV are and beyond, Candice Nicole has definitely used her Web site www.candicenicoleinthecity.com and twitter to expand her reach. “It’s been amazing. I have the largest network of people from New York, LA, Atlanta. To be honest with you, I don’t know how I got over 5000 followers. I don’t know but I appreciate it; it really does humble me.”

With her latest artist landing a record deal, I’m sure Candice Nicole will be known as the go-to publicist in the area. The PR lady also has dreams to start a foundation, open a restaurant and start a family…she’ll be busy so be on the look out and try to keep up!

Name: Candice N. Mackel

Do you have a day job? Yes, I work at BET (Black Entertainment Television) in the traffic dept, which is commericials

What did you do last night? I actually had a night off (YAY) ) so I relaxed with Mommy and watched some tube.

Where’s your favorite place to eat after a party? I haven’t been to this place in a while, but it’s the Georgetown Diner I think, nice little spot, great food!

What’s your favorite song ? Brand New Heavies “Dream on Dreamer”

What’s next for you? I would have to say a lot is next for me. My client Don Juan just got signed to JIVE so it’s a VERY exciting time right now. Of course, I am looking forward to the day I will be able to do PR full time )

Blackberry or iPhone? Blackberry!!

What do you look for in a guy? Someone who is understanding of my career. I am on the move a lot, on the scene and I really need someone who will understand and not get jealous.

Washington Wizards or Washington Redskins? REDSKINS all the way!! “Hail to the REDSKINSSSSSSSSS”

Anyone you want to shout out? My Mommy of course who has been such an amazing supporter. She was the mother and father and I am blessed to have her as my #1 fan ) To ALL of my friends who support me, who have come out to ALL of my events, listened to my crazy ideas, and to my clients..thank you, thank you for believing in me.

Who was the last person you called, why? I have not called anyone yet this morning, but last night I called Jay (Don Juan‘s manager) to discuss an event.

To stay in touch with Candice Nicole visit her Web site www.candicenicoleinthecity.com, follow her on twitter @candicenicolepr, or friend her on www.facebook.com/candicenicolepr.