Meet Latoya Jordan

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Latoya Jordan a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Latoya, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

I’m no stranger to being the only one in the room that looks like me. In fact, my parents were intentional about making sure I had the tools to navigate and feel confident in any environment. I was involved in a variety of activities, lived in communities that lacked diversity, and also spent meaningful time with family and friends in communities filled with people who looked like me.

That early exposure shaped my perspective. I never approached those spaces with the goal of blending in or assimilating. Instead, I focused on maintaining clarity—clarity around the standards that were set for me, and the standards I set for myself. That clarity became my anchor. It shaped how I showed up, how I made decisions, and how I engaged in rooms that weren’t necessarily built with me in mind.

Whether I’m the only woman or the only person of color, I don’t see it as a disadvantage. I understand that my presence is felt in those spaces, and that my perspective and voice are often needed most in those moments. That awareness comes with a responsibility—to contribute thoughtfully, to ask the right questions, and to ensure that important perspectives aren’t missing from the conversation.

I’ve never felt the need to shrink or overcompensate. I focus on being prepared, consistent, and intentional in how I contribute. Over time, I’ve learned that effectiveness in those environments isn’t about blending in—it’s about understanding the dynamics of the room while staying grounded in your own perspective. That’s where real influence comes from.

Today, I operate in the wine and spirits industry as both a brand owner and a distributor in the state of Georgia—spaces that have historically lacked representation from people who look like me. I’m part of a very small percentage in this industry, and I approach that with intention. Through Marble Wines and Elite Distribution Solutions, I’m not just participating—I’m creating space for connection, representation, and access.

For me, it’s no longer just about being effective in the room. It’s about helping to reshape the room entirely.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I operate at the intersection of brand building and distribution within the wine and spirits industry. I’m the founder of Marble Wines, a wine label centered on connection, individuality, and shared experiences, and I also lead Elite Distribution Solutions, an Atlanta-based distributor focused on creating access for small and minority-owned brands.

What’s most exciting to me is the ability to influence both sides of the industry. With Marble Wines (www.marblewines.com), I’m building a brand that feels intentional and inclusive. Through Elite Distribution Solutions, I’m working to address structural gaps by creating more equitable pathways to market.

Right now, I’m focused on expanding our footprint across Georgia, growing retail partnerships, and continuing to build a portfolio of brands that align with our mission.

At a broader level, my work is about contributing to a shift in the industry—one where access is expanded, representation is visible, and more people have the opportunity to participate and succeed.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, three things have been especially impactful in my journey: clarity, relationship building, and adaptability.

Clarity has been foundational. Being clear about my standards, my values, and what I’m working toward has helped guide my decisions. For anyone early in their journey, I’d encourage you to spend time defining what matters to you. Without that, it’s easy to be pulled in too many directions.

Relationship building has also been critical. Every meaningful opportunity I’ve had—whether in launching Marble Wines or growing Elite Distribution Solutions—has been rooted in trust and genuine connection. My advice is to approach relationships with intention. Focus on building real connections over time, not just networking for immediate outcomes.

Finally, adaptability. Building something from the ground up requires the ability to adjust, learn quickly, and stay open to new approaches. Things rarely go exactly as planned, and being able to pivot without losing sight of your overall vision is key. For those just starting out, don’t be discouraged by setbacks—they’re often where the most valuable lessons come from.

Together, those three—clarity, relationships, and adaptability—have allowed me to navigate challenges, build with intention, and continue evolving in a meaningful way.

Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?

I wouldn’t point to just one person—my growth has been shaped by a combination of people, experiences, and environments over time.

My parents laid the foundation early by setting strong standards and making sure I had the tools to navigate different spaces with confidence. Along the way, I’ve also had the benefit of guidance from my mentor, George Campbell, who has not only shared wisdom and perspective, but has also opened doors and created opportunities that have been instrumental in my journey.

As I’ve built Marble Wines and Elite Distribution Solutions, I’ve also been supported by an incredible team of women working alongside me. Monica, Shereka, Brianna, Maleeka, and Justice each bring something unique, and their contributions are a meaningful part of what allows this work to grow and evolve.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://marblewines.com
• Instagram: @marblewines
• Facebook: @marblewines
• Linkedin: @marblewines
• Other: https://Latoyasjordan.com