Today we’d like to introduce you to Emma Rolader Martin
Hi Emma, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey into event planning has been a mix of creativity, organization, and a genuine love for bringing people together. I started by learning under Debbie Felker, a beloved wedding planner in Atlanta. She brought me under her wing, taught me everything I know, and instilled in me a love of hospitality and service to clients.
From there, I had the chance to branch into the corporate world, working with brands like Delta Air Lines, where I planned everything from tradeshows to large-scale global conferences. This experience was a fabulous primer for all things logistics, vendor management, and high-pressure environments.
Now, I’ve come full circle, returning to full-service planning for events of all types – weddings, social events, and global conferences – all under my brand, Emma Martin Events.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Is it ever a completely smooth road? I started my career in nonprofit marketing and communications, where I spent time interviewing farmers in South Georgia to develop profiles that helped humanize our farms – a key selling point for our clients. While it was fulfilling work, stepping into unfamiliar communities and trying to capture authentic stories wasn’t always easy. It challenged me to be a better listener and storyteller at the beginning of my career.
From there, I transitioned into a social media marketing role at a time when the social landscape was still evolving. Navigating a field that was constantly changing brought its own set of challenges like figuring out best practices on the fly, adapting to new platforms, and proving the value of social media to clients who were still skeptical.
Eventually, I moved into an agency setting as an account manager for brands like Delta Air Lines, the Federal Home Loan Bank, and Emory University. Managing high-profile clients came with high expectations, tight deadlines, and a lot of pressure to perform.
Then, starting my own brand, Emma Martin Events, brought a whole new set of hurdles. Shifting from a structured corporate environment to running my own business meant learning how to wear many hats, from marketing and client management to logistics and creative design. There have been moments of self-doubt and plenty of learning curves, but each challenge teaches me something about the pursuit of a balanced career and how to add value to our short lives on earth.
Through all these experiences, I’ve learned that the bumps in the road are where the real growth happens. Every challenge has shaped me into the planner and business owner I am today.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At Emma Martin Events, we specialize in full-service event planning and design, curating unforgettable events in collaboration with the industry’s finest vendors. With over a decade of experience, we craft celebrations that reflect each client’s style and vision, whether it’s an elegant wedding, a corporate gathering, or an intimate milestone event.
What sets us apart is our progressive approach to planning. We like to say that we are: dream-come-true deliverers, creative collaborators, ace negotiators, design directors, logistical experts, and trusted partners throughout the process. We challenge outdated traditions, believing events should celebrate individuality and authenticity, not follow a standard checklist. We take pride in cultivating joy and connection not only on the event day but throughout the entire planning process.
At our core, we are passionate storytellers. Whether you need full-service wedding planning, corporate event management, or custom celebrations, we transform your ideas into meaningful, memorable experiences. Every detail is designed to honor your individuality and what matters most to you.
Any big plans?
As we look to the future, we recognize the many shifting tides in culture, politics, and everyday life. These changes continue to influence how people gather, celebrate, and connect. At Emma Martin Events, we are committed to staying adaptable and responsive while remaining true to what drives us: pursuing our passions with integrity and having fun along the way.
We plan to continue pushing creative boundaries, embracing new ideas, and finding fresh ways to make events more personal and reflective of our clients’ unique stories. Whether it’s rethinking traditional event structures, incorporating sustainable practices, or finding ways to make gatherings more inclusive, we are excited to evolve with the times.
Looking ahead, we’re also focused on expanding our network across the U.S., growing our brand, and connecting with clients who value creativity and authenticity.
Through it all, our goal remains the same: to create unforgettable experiences that bring people together in ways that are joyful, intentional, and true to who they are.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://emmamartinevents.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/emmamartinevents
Image Credits
Eric Kelly
Kate Belle
David OD
Kristin Vegera
The Rizzas
