When it comes to exploring California Real Estate and finding your dream home, there’s one name you need to know—Realtor Emily Martin. Her journey from the Midwest, growing up in the suburbs of Chicago to NYC’s fashion industry and finally to California’s enchanting Wine Country is as captivating as the neighborhoods she represents. Here are 10 fun facts that not only showcase Emily’s impressive professional background, but also reveal the vibrant, personal side of Emily.
1. A True Midwesterner at Heart
Emily’s roots are deeply embedded in the Midwest, having been born in Chicago and raised in Winnetka, IL. Her enduring connection to her hometown is underscored by her mother still residing in the family home, famously located across the street from the iconic Home Alone movie house. This lasting tie to her origins adds a unique dimension to her story.
Despite her affinity for California wines and French champagne, Emily often surprises friends with her fondness for Bud Light—a nod to her Midwestern heritage. This blend of regional influences reflects her ability to appreciate diverse tastes while remaining true to her roots. What can we say, you can take the girl out of the Midwest, but you can’t take the Midwest out of the girl!
2. Proud to Be a Hoosier
Emily’s academic journey began at Indiana University, where she studied Business and Fashion— She then enhanced her credentials with an MBA in Finance and Entrepreneurship from Fordham University. As evident from Emily’s deep sense of Entrepreneurship as a Realtor, Founder of The JetSetting Fashionista, Emily has utilized the MBA to successfully run various businesses and truly embodies an entrepreneur.
3. From NYC Fashion Industry to California Wine Country
After graduating, Emily leaped into the New York City fashion scene by joining Bloomingdale’s Buying Training Program. Remarkably, her second day on the job fell on September 11, 2001—a day that would forever shape the resilience and determination of everyone in NYC. From 2001 to 2012, she thrived in the Big Apple’s fast-paced environment working at Bloomingdale’s, Tiffany & Co., and Louis Vuitton before her journey eventually led her to San Francisco. And when asked what brought her to California, the answer was simple: Wine.
Her passion for wine was ignited during her time at LVMH (where she was introduced to acclaimed Champaign such as Dom Perigmom, Krug, Ruinart & more) in 2007 – 2009, sparking a love for wine country, storytelling about wine, and ultimately, a seamless transition to selling homes in one of the most sought-after regions in California.
Speaking of Champagne, check out Emily’s favorite Champagne Maisons on The JetSetting Fashionista here.
4. A Legacy of Community Service
Community service isn’t just a part of Emily’s career—it’s in her blood and something to attribute to both of her parent’ and families’ passion for giving back and volunteering within their communities. As a 3rd generation Rotarian, she proudly follows the footsteps of her grandparents. Her maternal grandfather was a member of Rotary Chapter #1 in Chicago, while her paternal grandmother worked for the Vice President of Rotary International in Evanston, IL, for six years.
Continuing this legacy, Emily has been an active member of the Healdsburg Rotary Club since 2020. Before that, she built strong community ties through her involvement in the NY Jr. League (2001–2012) and the San Francisco Jr. League (2012–2022). She also volunteered with Mentoring USA for 6 years in partnership with Bloomingdale’s and taught Sunday School throughout Junior High and High School. As evident, Emily loves being involved in a philanthropic way and has enjoyed volunteering with children over the years as well.
5. Living an Active Lifestyle
When Emily isn’t busy selling clients’ homes, or finding clients their dream homes, she’s busy staying active. A passionate golfer (or at least, someone who loves the spirit of the game!), she also enjoys the fast pace of pickleball, the freedom of cycling (both indoor at spin class and outside on the road), and the discipline of pilates—which she has practiced twice weekly for the last 18 years. This commitment to an active lifestyle not only keeps her energized but also perfectly balances her dynamic career. If you are a woman golfer like Emily, check out this blog with the best female golf brands.
Looking for the best Gyms and Pilates Studios in Healdsburg, see our blog post here.
6. Real Estate Runs in the Family, 2nd Generation Realtor within the Martin Family
Emily’s passion for real estate was practically written in her DNA. Growing up with Mother, Linda Martin—a realtor with 40+ years of experience in Chicago’s North Shore—Emily was exposed to the ins and outs of the industry from an early age. By the age of 22, she had already purchased her first condo in NYC, followed by a home in San Francisco in 2017 and a Healdsburg home in 2022. This deep-rooted connection to real estate allows her to blend analytical skills, a love for people, and sharp marketing savvy to help you buy or sell your dream home.
Watch our YouTube video, Sharing 5 Reasons to work with Realtor Emily Martin.
7. Family, Friends, and Furry Companions
Family is at the heart of Emily’s life. As the middle child of three girls, she cherishes her close bonds—with two nieces, two nephews, and her adorable dog, Ernestine, aka Ernie. Living in Sonoma has enriched her life with countless family-friendly activities. Looking for a fun day out? Check out the ultimate guide to the best family activities to do with kids, where you can explore gems like Safari West, the Healdsburg Fire and Police Station, Train Town, and more. Additionally, if you’re a wine lover who also adores dogs, don’t miss this cool guide to Sonoma’s dog-friendly wineries.
8. A Marketing Maestro in Luxury
With over 25 years of experience in luxury marketing and sales, Realtor Emily Martin has worked with some of the most prestigious brands, including Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., Gap Inc., and Bloomingdale’s. This impressive career has given her the ability to create unmatched experiences and storytelling for her clients. Whether staging a home or designing a tailored marketing campaign, her sophisticated strategies ensure your property attracts the right buyers.
Ready to see her magic in action? Plan a weekend with luxury realtor Emily Martin and experience her approach firsthand.
9. Your Go-To Lifestyle Guru
Beyond real estate, Emily is also a well-known lifestyle expert. Through her blog, The JetSetting Fashionista, she shares her expertise in luxury travel, food and wine, offering her audience a tastemaker’s perspective on living a luxurious lifestyle. This unique combination of real estate and lifestyle expertise allows Emily to help her clients not only find the perfect home but also enjoy the best that the local area has to offer. Whether you’re looking for the newest luxury hotel, the most delicious restaurants, or the most fabulous winery in California’s Wine Country, Emily is your guide.
10. Realtor Emily Martin is a Top Zillow Premier Agent
In today’s competitive market, recognition matters. Emily is a top Zillow Premier Agent in Wine Country—covering Healdsburg, Sonoma, Windsor, Santa Rosa, and Napa Valley. This prestigious title is reserved for agents who have demonstrated outstanding performance, customer satisfaction, and extensive market knowledge. Working with a Zillow Premier Agent like Emily means you’re partnering with someone chosen by Zillow for their excellence, ensuring a smoother and more successful real estate journey. Read more about Top Zillow Premier Agent Emily Martin here.
Emily Martin’s journey is a blend of passion, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to her community. Whether you’re exploring the charming neighborhoods of Windsor or dreaming of a sophisticated lifestyle in Wine Country, Emily is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact her today, and let her exceptional approach turn your real estate dreams into reality!
Why choose Realtor Emily Martin?
Emily has called California home for over a decade and likes to think of herself as a California “native”. Learning at a young age from her mother Linda K. Martin, a top-producing real estate agent for 40+ years, Emily has been immersed in Real Estate all of her life. As a homeowner in her early 20s in Manhattan’s Gramercy Park, followed by San Francisco, and now Healdsburg, Emily understands the intricacies of home ownership in highly sought-after regions such as Manhattan, San Francisco, Sonoma County, Napa Valley, and her beloved hometown of Healdsburg, California.
Whether you’re buying your dream home, purchasing a second home, selling a cherished property, or investing in the market, I’m here to make your dreams a reality. My extensive luxury experience, attention to customer experience, marketing expertise, hard work ethic, and passion allow me to provide a level of service that is truly distinctive. As we start our journey together, here’s what you can expect:
Unmatched Luxury Expertise
With a deep-rooted understanding of the luxury market, I bring a wealth of knowledge and insight into luxury goods, sales, and lifestyle. Whether you’re buying or selling, I have the expertise to navigate the world of real estate and the Healdsburg Luxury Homes market.
A Tradition of Excellence
With a family legacy spanning four decades in real estate, excellence is not just a goal, it’s a tradition. I am committed to upholding the impeccable reputation my mother, Linda K. Martin, a top North Shore Chicago agent, has built by delivering nothing short of excellence to my clients.
Unwavering Dedication & Passion
I am dedicated to your success. From the moment we embark on this journey together, I will provide unwavering support, guidance, and attention to detail, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. When asked to describe Emily, the first words that come up with my clients are passionate, energetic, experienced, and dependable.
Explore the Luxury Lifestyle in Healdsburg’s Wine Country
Luxury real estate is not just about properties, it’s about a lifestyle. It’s about finding the perfect blend of elegance, sophistication, and comfort that feels like you. It’s the feeling you get when you walk into your dream home.
Contact me today at: [email protected] or 707-926-3200 to begin your extraordinary real estate experience. Together, we’ll create a story worth telling, a life worth living, and a legacy worth building.