Dierdra Joi Zollar is a former writing instructor and a current writer/editor for Hallmark Cards. She has always been intrigued by how language can evoke powerful responses in people and create deep, emotional connections between them—particularly against the backdrop of her own personal experiences and the African American community at large. “I often use myself, my family, and my friends, along with the incorporation of other culturally-rich signifiers, in my writing,” Dierdra says, “to ensure that our consumers will recognize their own relationships in the cards and trust they are being portrayed honestly and respectfully.” She believes this is what makes Mahogany so compellingly unique, yet authentically universal for everyone who experiences the line.