Meet Emma Rolader Martin

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Emma Rolader Martin. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Emma below.

Hi Emma, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?

I love this question because I believe in the answer so deeply. My work ethic stems from a deeply ingrained family legacy of passion and entrepreneurial spirit. One of the most influential stories in my family history is that of my ancestor William Joseph Rolader, who immigrated to the United States from Germany as a 12-year-old orphan in 1828. Despite the unimaginable challenges of losing his parents on the journey, he and his sister forged new lives in America.

Generations later, that same drive was evident in my family’s contributions to Buckhead, where my relatives turned innovation into opportunity. From crafting essential pottery / ceramic vessels and delivering spring water to Atlanta businesses, to running grocery stores, service stations, and even pioneering public health initiatives, the Rolader name became synonymous with hard work and service to the Atlanta community.

Growing up surrounded by these stories and these ideals instilled in me a sense of responsibility to pursue my own passions with the same dedication. It’s something I think about often.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

My story is deeply rooted in Atlanta, where I was born and raised as a descendant of generations of proud Atlantans. Growing up surrounded by a rich legacy of family and community here, I developed a love for bringing people together, which became a defining thread in my life.

After graduating from UNC-Chapel Hill, I returned to Atlanta, eager to start my career. I honed my skills working with brands like Delta Air Lines and other global organizations, planning large-scale events and executing integrated digital campaigns. These experiences deepened my passion for creating meaningful and well-executed gatherings.

In time, life and work took my family to Nashville, where I’ve embraced the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. While I’ve expanded my reach across the Southeast (and the country!), my Atlanta roots remain a core part of who I am and what I bring to my work.

Today, I’m proud to combine my creative vision, attention to detail, and deep appreciation for Southern traditions to craft unforgettable weddings, milestone events, and corporate experiences. Whether in Atlanta, Nashville, or beyond, I’m driven by a passion for helping others celebrate life’s most special moments.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Adaptability, attention to detail, and the ability to build meaningful relationships.

1. Adaptability:
In event planning, no two days are ever the same. From weather changes to last-minute client requests, learning to stay calm and pivot quickly has been invaluable. To develop this skill, I recommend embracing challenges with an open mind. Start small, practice flexibility in everyday situations, and remind yourself that every setback is an opportunity (easier said than done!).

2. Attention to Detail:
Creating seamless, memorable events requires an eye for the little things, whether it’s perfecting a tablescape, double-checking timelines, or anticipating guest needs. Developing this skill takes practice and intention. There’s no other way.

3. Building Relationships:
Strong connections with clients, vendors, and colleagues are the foundation of success in this industry. People want to feel valued and understood, and investing in these relationships pays dividends. My advice: be genuinely curious about others. Listen more than you speak, follow up consistently, and always operate with integrity and kindness.

For those just starting out, my biggest piece of advice is to stay curious and give yourself permission to grow. You don’t have to know everything right away. Just commit to learning, adapting, and building meaningful connections as you go. Those qualities will take you far, no matter your path.

Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?

One book that has influenced my personal and professional development is Daring Greatly by Brené Brown. High level, this book preaches the power of vulnerability and courage, and has shaped how I approach my work and relationships every day.

Brown highlights the idea that vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength. In event planning, there’s so much at stake – emotions, expectations, and moments that matter deeply to people. Learning to embrace vulnerability has allowed me to connect more authentically with clients, lean into creative risks, and approach challenges with a mindset of growth rather than fear.

She also explores the concept of an “arena.” We all know that it’s easy to critique from the sidelines, but it takes real courage to step into the arena and show up, even when there’s a risk of falling short. This mindset has given me the confidence to try new ideas and continually evolve in my craft.

There’s also a big emphasis on the importance of connection. At its core, my work is about bringing people together and creating meaningful moments. Brené’s reminder to prioritize empathy, authenticity, and wholeheartedness has reinforced my belief that the most impactful events are the ones that celebrate real human connection.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://emmamartinevents.com
• Instagram: @emmamartinevents

Image Credits

Kate Belle Photography
Peacock Photography
Eric Kelly