Marisa Hillman

Marisa Hillman

location-pin Oxford, CT

School: Hofstra University

Expertise: Travel, Money & Finance, Product Testing

Marisa Hillman

  • 10 years in e-Commerce, including buyer’s guides, product testing and product reviews
  • 7 years as a Teacher of English, grades 9-12

Experience

Marisa spent almost a decade teaching literature and grammar to high school students. After becoming a mom in 2014, she decided not to return to the classroom. Instead, she opted to combine her love of shopping and writing and began writing for digital publications. She became a full-time staff writer at Reader’s Digest in 2024, although she’s been a regular contributor since 2018. Throughout her career, Marisa has been a freelance writer for multiple publications, including WeTV and U.S. News & World Report. Marisa is an accomplished shopper who is adept at finding standout products at all price points. She is also a seasoned product tester and has tested everything from clothing to bedding, skincare, cookware, vacuum cleaners and Christmas trees. She also spent two years following Dave Ramsey’s plan for financial freedom and has mastered the art of budgeting, meal planning and smart shopping. As a writer, Marisa finds joy in sharing her tips, tricks and finds via tried-and-tested product reviews, product roundups and gift guides for every occasion. When she’s not writing or entertaining her four young children, you’ll find her squeezing in an OrangeTheory Fitness class or with her nose buried in a good book.

Education

Stony Brook University, Bachelors of Science in Education with a major in English Literature

Hofstra University, Masters of Science in Education, Literacy Specialist Certification

Articles

56 Best Gifts for People Who Have Everything, So Their Birthday and Christmas Will Be Easy

Totally stumped for someone's birthday or Christmas? Don't worry! We've found tons of unique gifts for people who have everything. We bet they don't have these (yet).

24 Best Gag Gifts That Are Genuinely Hilarious for Christmas, Birthdays and Beyond

When it comes to the best gag gifts, it's better to give than to receive. Most are super affordable, and you're sure to bring on some laughs to the occasion!