We had the good fortune of connecting with Emily MacDonald and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Emily, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Since I was very young, I’ve always loved working. I’m one of those people who find huge gratification in my job. In my 20’s, being in a creative space and completing projects in my role made me feel accomplished and successful, and I admittedly had a difficult time putting my work away at the end of the day. Now that I’m in my 30’s, I have redefined my definition of success. Don’t get me wrong, I still LOVE my job, but fulfillment looks different to me now. Since becoming a mother in 2020 in the midst of a pandemic, I have learned to check in with myself and wrap up projects as the work day ends so I can spend time with my family. Motherhood taught me that work will always be there, but my baby boy gets older every single day. And I’m going to be present in this moment and enjoy that!

What should our readers know about your business?
Four years ago I decided I wanted to start my own marketing consulting firm. I saw a need in local start-ups and small businesses with marketing from the ground up. Based on a sliding scale, I developed a business plan to help new businesses with website development, project management, and marketing efforts to help their dreams become reality. Since then I’ve helped many businesses launch their brands. It’s important to me to support local, hardworking small business owners. Starting one myself, I know the hard work that goes in to it, and my goal is to help other entrepreneurs learn the best way to market their passions.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Atlanta is my city, and I love finding little nooks and crannies that most people don’t know about. Here are some of my favorites around the A.

Fancy dinner date or celebrating a birthday? Try Pasta da Pulcinella, an cozy italian bungalow located in Midtown with a menu that is sure to impress. Romantic and understated. I recommend the sage and brown butter ravioli!

Drinks with the girls? For a view, check out 9 Mile Station at the top of Ponce City Market. It’s hard to get a reservation for a reason. If you want to feel a little rebellious, head to Eleanor’s, a speakeasy bar located through the freezer door inside Muss and Turner’s. Just walk in and ask for Eleanor. Shhh! I’ve said too much..

Late night bites when everything is closed? My husband and I frequent Woody’s Famous Philly CheeseSteaks on Monroe Drive. They are killer!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate this shoutout to my mother, Terri, who I get my entrepreneurial spirit from. My mother started her career in education and became a principal at a very young age and eventually received her superintendent’s certificate. Witnessing her drive and leadership in the education system was beyond inspiring as a kid. She was young, but exuded confidence and humbleness at the same time. And let me just tell you… having your mom as your principal growing up makes you act right!!

Website: https://www.clippings.me/emilysnelling

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-snelling-57895919b/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emmy.lou.5688

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