Michelle got into the business honestly, via her gypsy ways!  Her sense of adventure, passion for travel, peaked curiosity for the unknown, and her quirky outlook on life. The consummate hostess, her attention to detail would make Martha Stewart envious. Years of managing budgets for Fortune 500 global incentive travel programs allowed her to strengthen and maintain relationships with top industry partners. During her time as Director of Sales and Destination Management at Barton G, she mastered her understanding of the event management industry from a client and vendor perspective. 

Fun fact, Michelle graduated from Eastern Michigan University in Aviation Technology but then went on to work for some charming little companies like United Airlines, Thomas Cook, American Express, Maritz Travel, Barton G and Hip Performance Group.

Joe’s formula for success is grounded in a result oriented, entrepreneurial spirit. His long-standing relationships with the local development market have offered him a unique opportunity to turn commercial raw space into more efficient short-term space solutions for the hospitality industry.  In his role, Joe supports all disciplines in MARA’s drive for results.  He is responsible for managing a portfolio of vacant real estate to satisfy a one of a kind brand experiences all in a fast, easy and modern way. In a constant changing environment, Joe has his finger on the pulse. In addition to his current role he has led the Southeast Florida real estate market for years as a top-producing agent with prestigious brokerages such as Coldwell Banker and Sotheby’s.  It was a natural evolution that Joe transition from real estate to event activations. “Whether you are selling someone a house, or assisting them in realizing their event vision, both require superior listening skills, client comprehension, professionalism and superior customer service.” Joe’s first foray into the event industry was as the sales director for a New York start up.  This position called on him to dive head first into the event and experiential marketing world. Due to Joe’s leadership and extensive network of landlords, developers and clients, the start up was able to amass a portfolio of over 40 properties that could be used for activations, product launches, private events, social galas, corporate retreats or pop up marketing platforms. It was a natural fit to join the team, as both Joe and MARA have identical visions on what a first class event experience entails… and luckily we know how to deliver.