By Heather King
As the year comes to a close and the season of gratitude unfolds, we asked our team to reflect on what they’re most thankful for this year.
From career milestones to personal triumphs, our team shared heartfelt moments and inspiring perspectives that reflect the rich experiences and diversity each person brings to their work and how these moments contribute to our collective success. Join us in celebrating the meaningful reasons our team is thankful.
Lydia Martinez, Founder & CEO
Our fearless leader and founder, Lydia Martinez, begins by recognizing what she’s built for herself and her family through Elle Marketing and Events. “I’m thankful to have the flexibility in my schedule to work from just about anywhere (most of the time). I’m a reluctantly stationary nomad-at-heart, and this year, I got to travel more than I have since the pandemic. It is a luxury to feed my travelers soul.”
The company went through many changes this year. “We grew Elle Marketing and we grew our team. There were growing pains. But it was exciting to see things come together.”
And it couldn’t have happened without everyone who’s a part of Elle. “Our team is amazing. Jen grew a whole human and did it with grace and humor and never dropped the ball. Juliette graduated from her demanding master’s program and moved to and from Spain to do it, and never dropped the ball. Michaela rose to every challenge we presented her, on a very steep learning curve as well. Jessie worked her tail off while juggling a million invoices and three kids. Daisy and Ruthie stepped in and stepped up when we needed emergency help. They are go-getters in impressive ways.”
Jen Guntner, Client Account Manager
“Leaving on maternity leave came ‘easy’ knowing I had a team of supportive women behind me helping me manage my workload. Not only did this align with Elle, but also with my own business. I have been so lucky and so grateful for those whose paths I have crossed along the way within the type of work I do.”
While balancing a career and growing family, Jen is thankful to recognize “two people who really stood out for their support and dedication. Both of their contributions have made a meaningful impact this year, and I’m deeply grateful for their dedication.
Juliette: She has been an incredible team player, always working ahead to ensure tasks were completed on time and often taking on additional responsibilities. Her proactive approach and hard work made a significant difference, especially in managing client presentations and reaching out whenever needed to keep things on track.
Lydia: As a business owner, Lydia took on more than most would, showing true commitment to both the team and our clients. She dedicated time to train new team members and was heavily involved in executing effective marketing tactics. Her support has been invaluable and truly inspiring in driving success.”
Juliette Saravia, Content Manager
Working for Elle gave Juliette the opportunity to grow personally and professionally, accomplishing several remarkable milestones. “I’m particularly proud of my growth within my role as I embraced new responsibilities that I never thought I could handle. While personal and professional growth can be challenging, I’ve learned to view these challenges as opportunities for development. Each experience has allowed me to bloom in ways I didn’t anticipate, and I’m excited to continue this journey. I had the incredible opportunity to live, work, and study abroad in Spain, which was a transformative experience for me. It truly wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of my amazing team. Their encouragement and collaboration made it possible for me to embrace this adventure fully, allowing me to grow both personally and professionally.”
Casey Ciciora-Gold, Strategy & Project Management
Casey experienced several life-changing events this year. “I was able to adopt my son, who is healthy and always happy. I am thankful for the opportunity to pursue adoption and have it legalized.” In addition, “I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to learn new things. I received my master’s degree this year and that has provided me so many new ways to overcome marketing challenges with new ways of approaching each client need.”
Brian Moss, Event Marketing
“I reached a major milestone in my educational pursuits this year in completing the Social Media Marketing certificate program at Ensign College. I was also able to plan, coordinate, and execute my first client event, which turned out to be an amazing and valuable experience for me.” He’s thankful to work with such a collaborative team. “I would like to recognize the entire team who helped with the client event I was in charge of. It would not have been possible without their contributions. I want to personally thank each of them for helping to make it such an enjoyable and memorable event for our client and our guests.”
Daisy Bizot, Virtual Assistant
“The whole Elle Marketing team has been so inspiring. I am so thankful to be part of this team and learn from everyone. But a special shout out to Jen and Lydia, who brought me on board and have taught me so much! I really appreciate and admire this team.” Joining Elle helped her fulfill a lifelong dream. “I’m proud of leaving the corporate world to live the life I’ve always dreamed of and finally be able to work remote and move to a new country.”