Daily Inspiration: Meet Emily Phelps

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Phelps.

Hi Emily, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey really started with being curious and resourceful — I’ve always loved creating experiences and finding ways to bring people together. I started in hospitality and events, working my way up to producing and directing hundreds of events. That taught me how to balance creativity with logistics, and how much I enjoyed building something from the ground up. Five years ago, I launched my first venture: Artmingo Events, which focused on wedding planning and event management and production. This year, we expanded into a brick and mortar bringing my concept for a floral boutique to life. Atelier is a space that triggers creativity, and encourages connection. At the heart of it all, I’m a single mom and a creative entrepreneur who loves helping others bring their visions to life — whether through events, branding, or creating spaces for connection.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has had its bumps. Working in hospitality and events means navigating constant change — from last-minute client needs to unexpected challenges on event days. When I started my own companies, those challenges only grew: building client trust, finding the right team, and learning how to market myself. On top of that, the events industry can be unpredictable, so I had to learn how to pivot quickly. While it hasn’t always been easy, every setback has pushed me to innovate and refine how I approach both business and life. These challenges have taught me resilience and how to build systems that not only support my businesses but also allow me to show up fully for my clients and my family.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My work is rooted in design and artistry. With Atelier, my creative studio and venue space, I’ve built a place that celebrates aesthetics, storytelling, and intentional gatherings. It’s where I experiment with floral design, styling, and creating environments that feel timeless yet modern.

What I’m most proud of is that I’ve been able to carve out a path that lets me treat events and florals not just as services, but as forms of art. My work stands apart because I don’t approach design as decoration — I approach it as storytelling. Every arrangement, every tablescape, every space is created to reflect the people it’s for. Clients come to me for my aesthetic eye, but stay for the way I make the process collaborative, intentional, and joyful.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My biggest advice for those just starting out is to focus on progress over perfection. It’s easy to get caught up in comparing yourself to others or waiting until everything feels ready — but the truth is, clarity comes through doing. Take small steps, keep showing up, and trust that the pieces will come together.

I also wish I had known earlier that boundaries are as important as passion. This is something I still struggle with. When you’re building something new, it’s tempting to say yes to everything, but protecting your energy and valuing your work from the start sets the foundation for long-term success. You have to stick your ground when it comes to the value you are providing your clients, but i think the other side of that coin is being realistic about what to charge. It’s a fine line to walk.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.atelierbyartmingo.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atelierpasadena
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/emilygphelps

Image Credits
Fernando Vargas Photography https://fernvjr.com/