meet the karat gold team
MARNELLI M.
FOUNDER & CHIEF STRATEGIST
Karat Group is the sparkling vision of Marnelli Martin, an award-winning entrepreneur, seasoned jewelry industry pro, and true brand and product marketer at heart.
Marnelli is a Digital Marketing Executive Graduate from The Wharton School of Business. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications and minor studies in public relations, film, and media management from St. Paul University. She is also a GIA-Certified Diamond Graduate from the Gemological Institute of America with extensive knowledge and experience in diamonds, precious metals–karat gold, platinum, sterling silver, precious and semi-precious gems, fine, bridge, fashion, and costume jewelry.
For over 20 years, Marnelli has been a sought-after business strategist for the Industry’s top players globally with over 100 million dollars of sales revenue under her belt.
When Marnelli is not sashaying her way through trade shows, marketing events, or consulting with clients around the world, she adores being with her family, her three oh-so-cuddly golden retrievers, her belly dance troupe, nature, poetry, and serving local communities in her home in Connecticut, USA.
hillary w.
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Hillary Weiss is a coveted brand positioning expert and the founder of Statement Piece Studio. She’s also the former co-host of the cult-favorite marketing show on Youtube–Hillary and Margo Yell at Websites (#HAMYAW). Her work has been featured on Business Insider, The Next Web, The Observer, and more.
For over a decade, she’s helped thousands of brands all over the world get seen and heard (and make serious cash) through her incredible brand strategy, courses, and videos. Now, she’s on a mission to help more small businesses define their “statement piece”, a.k.a. the bold point of view that makes them radically relevant to their perfect target audience.
Hillary is excited to party in style with you and curate your very own extraordinary, next “IT” jewelry brand. Get ready to be stunned by this brilliant lightning bolt Creative Director!
Luisa Poisa is an accomplished leader with over 20 years of experience in the beauty, wellness, and luxury industries. She has held senior roles at global brands such as Elizabeth Arden, Davines, and L’Oréal, where she honed her expertise in market strategy, brand positioning, product innovation, and omni-channel execution. A natural connector, she thrives on crafting compelling strategies and building meaningful relationships, making her an invaluable partner in driving Karat Social’s international growth.
Luisa holds an Executive MBA from PoliMi, with a focus on entrepreneurship and digital transformation—a milestone she proudly pursued in her 40s, proving her lifelong commitment to growth.
Based in Parma, Italy’s culinary capital, Luisa enjoys a fulfilling life with her husband, two daughters, and a vibrant network of friends. When not working, she loves practicing yoga, exercising outdoors, experimenting with new recipes, traveling, and volunteering to support local causes.
As Karat Group’s Global Business Development and Growth Partner, based in our International offices in Milan/Parma, Italy, Luisa combines her passion for storytelling, market expertise, and relationship-building skills to propel the company—and our international clients’ brands—toward unprecedented business growth across Europe and beyond.
INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH PARTNER
luisa p.
WEB DIRECTOR AND E-COMMERCE LEAD
MARK S.
Mark Singley brings an impressive 20+ years of expertise as Web Director and E-commerce Lead for the Karat Group. His extensive background, shaped by experiences at some of the world's largest and most prestigious advertising agencies, positions him as a dynamic leader in web development and e-commerce strategy. Throughout his career, Mark has successfully driven digital initiatives and executed innovative strategies for a diverse portfolio of global brands.
With a rich history of collaborating with Fortune 500 companies and boutique clients across various industries—including Luxury Jewelry, Cosmetics, Sports, Financial Services, Pharmaceuticals, Luxury Goods, and Consumer Products—Mark's versatility and insight are unmatched. His two-decade tenure with leading marketing, advertising, and public relations firms in New York City has equipped him with an expansive and strategic perspective, enabling him to deliver exceptional results across multiple disciplines.
alexandra l.
SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING MANAGER
With a rich tapestry of experiences spanning continents and industries, Alexandra infuses a unique blend of artistry and strategy into every project. Born to an artist mother and musician father in Athens, Greece, her upbringing was steeped in creativity. Her journey from the serene landscapes of Santorini to the vibrant energy of New York City shaped her deep appreciation for diverse cultures, artistic expression, and storytelling.
A skilled photographer and visual artist with a strong background in arts, graphics, and languages, Alexandra brings a multifaceted approach to social media marketing. She has helped brands craft compelling narratives, build engaged communities, and stand out in an ever-changing digital landscape.
When she’s not crafting innovative social media strategies, Alexandra’s creativity knows no bounds. She can be found capturing the Manhattan skyline at dusk, exploring art galleries, or indulging in her love for indie films. Her storytelling extends beyond the digital realm, enriching her approach to content creation and brand narrative. Rooted in creativity, inclusivity, and empowerment, Alexandra brings a bold, fresh perspective to Karat Group—helping jewelry brands shine online.
DIRECTOR OF CLIENT ENGAGEMENT
kelly v.
With over 20 years of experience in the creative industry, Kelly Valdez thrives on taking the sparks of an idea and nurturing them into award-winning strategies that produce results. She loves travel, adventure, learning, and all the beauty in life. Kelly is excited to build relationships with clients that lead to authentic engagement and unlimited success.
Kelly is passionate about using creative marketing to help businesses grow through unique, impactful campaigns that resonate with audiences and drive success. She thrives on developing tailored strategies that elevate brands and dedicated to ensuring that Karat Social clients receive the best customer experience, offering personalized support and attention to help them achieve their goals.
matt C.
VIDEOGRAPHER AND MULTI-MEDIA PRODUCER
Matt Carafello is a talented videographer and post-production specialist with an unwavering passion for creating striking, unique media. His journey began in the event space, capturing live music performances, corporate conferences, and luxurious weddings. In these dynamic environments, Matt developed his ability to adapt quickly and improvise while refining his technical skill set. Over the past decade, he has traveled both nationally and internationally, bringing his expertise to a wide range of events and projects. Matt provides effective video content that many luxury brands face difficulties producing. His keen eye for ensuring product details is clearly and beautifully showcased in video campaigns, reels, and shorts is something our media production team takes great pride in.
When he's not on the road, Matt works from the studio, designing, curating, and editing top-tier content. With his meticulous attention to detail and diverse production knowledge, he effortlessly solves problems and ensures that no stone is left unturned in delivering a polished final product for our clients.
GROWTH MARKETING MANAGER and LEAD ANALYTICS
MarI W.
Mari Williams is a Google and LinkedIn Certified, digital marketing professional with expertise in Paid Ads, PPC, SEO and Lead Generation. She is a data-driven, highly analytical marketer and has grown multiple accounts with proven 4x to 6x ROAS–including one of the largest jewelry e-commerce brands. She manages over $1 million per year in “ad spend” and loves spearheading impactful marketing campaigns.
Mari’s educational background in computer science and cyber security from the University of Maryland and her passion for algorithms prepared her for many digital challenges that she’s now successfully solving for clients.
We adore Mari’s love for adventure! A true digital nomad, she and her family have been exploring the world from their RV. She revels in learning about new cultures and meeting people from different backgrounds while continuing to pursue her dedication to helping businesses succeed in the digital world with Karat Group.
MARESSA B.
GROWTH MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGIST
Meet Maressa Benz, a dynamic business graduate and a mastermind in strategic social media content and paid advertising. Her educational background in business lays the foundation for her deep understanding of market trends and consumer behaviors. This expertise is the cornerstone of her passion: creating impactful social media strategies that engage audiences and drive business growth.
Maressa's professional journey is distinguished by her collaboration with diverse businesses, for which she has crafted tailor-made content strategies. Her approach is straightforward yet effective — she aligns engaging content with business goals, ensuring each post is purposeful.
But Maressa's interests extend beyond business. She has a deep love for traveling the world, exploring new cultures, and indulging in diverse cuisines. From the vibrant streets of Mexico to the charm of various European countries, her travels enrich her life and lend a unique depth to her professional endeavors, blending her global experiences with her strategic expertise.
HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS & COPYWRITING
VANESSA G.
Vanessa Groce, a former editor at the esteemed business-to-business publication Accessories Magazine, has charted her path as an accomplished copywriter and editor. With a strong background in covering the jewelry industry, Vanessa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her work.
Vanessa has had the privilege of working with a diverse range of renowned brands. From Macy's and Lord & Taylor to New York & Company, Aerosoles, Laura Ashley, Aquatalia, Perry Ellis International, and Peter Manning New York, she has left an indelible mark on each project she undertakes.
Vanessa's dedication to her craft shines through in every engagement, as she skillfully combines her passion for writing with meticulous attention to detail. Her ability to captivate audiences and deliver compelling content has earned her a reputation as a trusted partner for brands seeking to elevate their messaging and connect with their target audience.
cARLY t.
SENIOR COPYWRITER
Meet Carly Eckerle-Turner, Karat Social’s resident copywriter and communication enthusiast. She’s the brains, word alchemist, and hidden gem uncoverer behind bestselling products and beloved brands – both big and small.
In addition to being immersed in all things copy and digital marketing, Carly holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and history and professional writing certification from Washington State University.
One of her most coveted talents is adapting to each brand’s unique voice and style – then expressing it to the world through powerful storytelling and content marketing that truly helps brands shine.
Carly can’t wait to help you craft the kind of delightful, memorable copy that enchants your dream customers and gives your collections the extra hint of sparkle they need to stand out!
STYLIST AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR
tamara g.
Tamara Gaudin's expertise as a stylist transcends international borders, spanning from the fashion capitals of Paris and New York City to the vibrant cities of Mexico, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Dallas.
Her versatility shines through her diverse portfolio, encompassing work in television and film, commercial and runway styling, and her participation in the prestigious New York Fashion Week. Fueled by her passion for travel, Tamara draws inspiration from the culinary delights, rich textiles, and unique shopping experiences she encounters during her frequent journeys across the globe. This global exposure has granted her a profound understanding of fashion's essence, positioning her as an exceptional stylist and fashion & creative director for Karat Social's clients.
With Tamara’s keen eye for detail and innate ability to curate looks and creatives that resonate with people from all walks of life, she effortlessly proves that fashion can be accessible and transformative for everyone.
Whether you're seeking a classic wardrobe, a show-stopping red-carpet look, or simply a touch of sartorial inspiration for your creative direction, photoshoots, and brand campaigns, Tamara is the stylist who can bring your fashion dreams to life.
OPERATIONS, SYSTEMS & CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE SPECIALIST
patty w.
Patty Woods works exceptionally well with fast-brained and neurodivergent entrepreneurs because she embodies both qualities herself. This unique combination allows her to be highly attuned to the challenges faced by companies & business owners who struggle with executive functions, which are crucial for smooth business operations, effective project management, and the creation and execution of stellar client experiences.
With over 16 years of experience, Patty has mastered the art of balancing her hyperfocus on understanding how things work with her intuitive grasp of what clients’ desire in order to create bespoke backends. These tailored solutions not only optimize business processes but also deliver a 'wow factor' that leaves your customers feeling like they've truly arrived.
In the world of sales and marketing, Patty is akin to a maestro, harmonizing various elements to create highly effective funnels that drive growth and revenue. Her strategic insights, meticulous planning, and organizational skills make her an invaluable asset to the Karat Group team and the clients we serve.
DIRECTOR OF VISUAL BRANDING AND WEB DESIGN
RACHEL P.
Rachel Pesso is a brand storyteller, designer, and visual director. She designs beautiful websites to showcase your big vision. With 10+ years of experience, she blends high-level strategy, collaboration, and deep love to design who you are online. Each website that she helps create is a trailblazer brand leveraging its unique voice and aesthetics to create an irresistible impact in a world that deeply desires it.
“The things we love – like exploring the world, telling stories, transforming perspectives and spending time with the people who matter most, should never come second to the way we work. They should be woven into the fabric of every step, every offering, and every heart beat of your brand and vision.”
EVA GRACE E.
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
With many years of experience working in developmental government programs and project management positions, Eva Grace has a proven track record of strong performance in high-volume, high-pressure environments–all while skillfully managing administrative duties and client relations. She is our digital fairy god mama who can execute and implement complex tasks and strategies for the team and clients with stellar efficiency and a can-do spirit. She approaches every undertaking with creativity, ingenuity and excellence.
Eva Grace has engineering and Master of public administration degrees from the University of the Philippines. She keeps our systems and processes organized and the team fully supported to be top performers!