Meet MARK DAVIS of MMD Empires

Today we’d like to introduce you to MARK DAVIS.

Hi MARK, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I built my foundation in business straight from the hustle that shaped me growing up in St. Louis, MO — that grind has always been in my DNA.

Everything leveled up the moment I met my wife, Marcia. She was already a force in business, and her drive lit an even bigger fire in me. She inspired me, pushed me, and encouraged me to grow into the CEO I am today.

Together, we’ve built an empire we’re proud of — from Portrait on a Plate Catering to ATL Fusion BBQ, Esco Marietta, and MD Event Studio. We don’t just run businesses… we create experiences, opportunities, and legacy.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Entrepreneurship is never a straight line, and my journey has had its share of challenges. There were moments where the money didn’t match the vision, days when staffing issues tested my patience, and nights where I questioned if the sacrifices were even worth it. Building multiple businesses at the same time meant juggling pressure, long hours, and constant problem-solving.

One of the toughest struggles was learning how to scale without losing quality — making sure every plate, every event, every customer experience reflected our standards. Another challenge was learning to trust the process, even when results weren’t immediate.

But each setback forced me to become more disciplined, more strategic, and more committed. What kept me moving was my family, my team, and the belief that the legacy we’re building will outlast every obstacle.

Through the challenges, we didn’t just survive — we evolved. And that’s why our businesses stand strong today.

As you know, we’re big fans of MMD Empires. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Our businesses are built around one mission: to create unforgettable experiences through food, hospitality, and atmosphere.

My wife Marcia and I operate several brands — Portrait on a Plate Catering, ATL Fusion BBQ, Esco Marietta, and MD Event Studio — and each one serves a unique purpose while sharing the same commitment to excellence.

Portrait on a Plate Catering is our elevated catering brand, specializing in restaurant-quality dishes, customized menus, and full-service event experiences. We’re known for our creativity, flavor, and presentation — we don’t just serve food; we create moments.

ATL Fusion BBQ brings bold, unforgettable barbecue with a twist. From turkey ribs to signature sauces and game-day favorites, we’re proud of the reputation we’ve built in the Atlanta area for consistency, flavor, and authenticity.

Esco Marietta is the heartbeat — a restaurant, lounge, and event hub known for its energy, 22+ screens, great food, and a vibe that keeps people coming back. A collaboration with the Grammy nominated rapper 2chains and Mychel Dillard. We purchase the franchise in 2022. Whether it’s brunch, karaoke, or a big game night, Esco is where people come to celebrate and feel connected.

MD Event Studio is our full-service event venue offering décor, catering, and curated experiences for everything from intimate dinners to large celebrations. We take pride in transforming moments into memories and making clients feel seen and celebrated.

What sets us apart is our hands-on approach and our commitment to quality. We’re involved in every detail — from the food to the décor to the customer experience. We don’t cut corners; we set standards. We build each brand with intention, passion, and a deep understanding of how to make people feel welcome.

Brand-wise, I’m most proud that everything we’ve created feels personal, polished, and purposeful. We’ve built a community, not just businesses — and people can feel that when they walk through our doors or taste our food.

What I want readers to know is simple: our brands are built on love, hustle, and experience. Whether you’re booking an event, grabbing a plate, or enjoying a night out, you’re going to get quality, consistency, and a team that genuinely cares.

Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
When it comes to business, risk is the ticket to the next level. I’ve learned that you can’t build anything meaningful by playing it safe. Every major milestone in my career came from stepping into something uncomfortable, uncertain, or unfamiliar — but believing in the outcome anyway.

One of the biggest risks I ever took was expanding into multiple businesses at once. On paper, it didn’t make sense — different concepts, different expenses, different challenges. But I believed in the vision, the people around me, and the community we were building. There were moments when the risk felt overwhelming, especially when the money was tight or when we were taking on new spaces and responsibilities. I remember when we had to sit our kids down and tell them there won’t be a big Christmas this year. That was heartbreaking and I reflect on that moment daily and that why we work so hard. But betting on myself — and on my wife, my team, and our work ethic — has paid off every time.

I see risk as an investment in possibility. Not every risk works out immediately, but each one teaches you something that moves you forward. The real danger is standing still, waiting for perfect conditions that don’t exist.

At the end of the day, I don’t take reckless risks — I take calculated ones. I study the vision, trust my instincts, and then commit fully. That mindset has allowed us to grow multiple brands, serve thousands of people, and create spaces and experiences we’re truly proud of.

So for me, risk isn’t something to fear — it’s something to respect. It’s the bridge between where you are and where you’re meant to be.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/chef_igotdasauce?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=bfc1ad9a-0bfc-40d9-b350-5490ef12303c
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chef_igotdasauce?igsh=MXZiYmtienM0ZmVwNg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr