ABOUT EMILY
I’m an optimistic person who loves my family and friends fiercely. I’ve been married to my husband, Matt, since 1999, and we live in north Texas with our adorably ridiculous dog, Rambo. We’re proudly known as “Aunt Emily and Uncle Matt” to more than our 16 immediate nieces & nephews - but to over 60 children of our cousins, close friends, and chosen family. We are honored & delighted to a be part of of their lives.
I serve as Coordinator of Communications and Media for Grace Presbytery (30 hours a week), and am open to creative and consulting projects in my spare time. Previously, I spent 14 years self-employed supporting congregations, nonprofits, small businesses, and artists nationwide with their branding, communication, and website needs. Before that, I worked in the paper crafts industry as an educator, marketer, and product designer. I was on teams that launched products at Target, Hobby Lobby, and QVC. I filmed pieces for the DIY Network and advocated for creativity through my writing, teaching, and media work in the U.S. and abroad.
READING
COOKING
CRAFTING
UPCYCLING
GARDENING
THRIFTING
PERSONAL SOCIALS
HOBBIES + INTERESTS
READING: I am an avid reader. I typically read from 100 to 150 books a year.
GARDENING: I look for unusual vegetables and herbs to grow. Always trying to eat the rainbow.
COOKING: I love cooking. Fun fact, the more my stress level increases, the fancier my cooking gets (until I hit my breaking point and it's pizza palooza). It's a delicious creative escape.
CRAFTING: My grandmother raised me crafting constantly. I started my first business (Em's Gems) in the 4th grade, sewing my own line of Barbie clothes, designing the packaging, and selling them on consignment to a local shop. I also worked in the craft & hobby industry for 8 years. I still craft regularly and host Sunday Crafternoon gatherings in my home.
UPCYCLING: My husband & I turn trash into treasures by reupholstering, repurposing, and reimagining salvaged furniture pieces.
THRIFTING: Matt and I also regularly scout estate sales, thrift shops, and McKinney Trade Days looking for antiques or other funky finds.
READ BANNED BOOKS & FIGHT CENSORSHIP
It’s important to read banned books and stand against censorship as a commitment to the health of our communities. When books are restricted or removed, we lose access to voices that challenge us, broaden our understanding, and reflect diverse experiences. Protecting the freedom to read preserves the exchange of ideas that strengthens democracy and nurtures empathy. Support the librarians, educators, and advocates who work to keep information accessible—especially for those whose stories are often pushed aside. Create your own book sanctuary using the handout I put together to help explain the cause. The Librarians film is especially timely because it highlights the fight to protect knowledge amid rising censorship and book bans. It underscores the essential role libraries play in preserving truth and defending everyone’s right to read and think freely. Find a local screening or support the film.
BOOKS READ IN 2025
