Cynthia Drake

I’m a freelance writer based in Michigan who grew up hearing lots of savings mantras, such as, “Watch the pennies, and the dollars take care of themselves,” from my dad, who grew up in an era when people were distrustful of the newly emerging credit card companies. In addition to inheriting his love of a good bargain, I took his advice to heart to live within my means and always pay off my credit card balances. As a financial writer, I love uncovering the quirky, offbeat stories, whether it’s credit card designs that never made it to market or the latest tips for wrapping a gift card. You can also catch me in regular video features for CreditCards.com.