Meet Emma Melter, who recently joined the Shores & Islands Ohio team as Group Experience Manager. Emma handles administrative and support services for all types of groups, including meetings/conventions, motorcoach, social, and sports. Let's get to know Emma!
S&IO: Tell us a bit about yourself.
Emma: While I grew up just outside the Shores & Islands Ohio region, I spent a lot of time in the area. As a recent graduate of Bowling Green State University with a degree in Tourism, Hospitality, and Event Management, I spent time working at Schedel Arboretum & Gardens, Cedar Point, and Water’s Edge Retreat on Kelleys Island to explore different avenues of my degree, as well as the region. After finishing an internship in Columbus, I was ready to return to the place that felt like home – Lake Erie.
S&IO: What makes the Shores & Islands region an attractive location to work?
Emma: There are so many things to do and places to explore. The region really does have something for everyone and I am looking forward to see how it continues to evolve.
S&IO: What about your job position attracted you to working for Shores & Islands?
Emma: I started here as a Travel Counselor which means I got to help individuals, couples, families, etc. brainstorm ideas and plan their trip. This new position drew me in because it provides the opportunity to do this on a larger scale for groups and bring more people to this unique area.
S&IO: What are you looking forward to about living and working in the Shores & Islands region? What specifically, job-wise are you looking to accomplish in the position?
Emma: I am looking forward to maintaining and building connections within the communities of S&IO. As I mentioned, there is something here for everyone and by creating these strong ties, I am better equipped to entice groups to the region as well as meet their needs.
S&IO: What are you looking forward to experiencing or learning more about within the region?
Emma: I’m excited to explore more of the region and learn about the people in it!
S&IO: What are your hobbies and/or what do you do when you’re NOT working?
Emma: I love travelling with family, friends, and even solo trips. It’s exciting to experience all the new, while also appreciating home. When I can’t physically go on an adventure, I like to crack open a good book or watch a TV show. I’ve also really gotten into trivia – both as a way to spend time with friends and a way to keep learning. While I’m not sure if coffee qualifies as a hobby, I do drink a lot of it and like to try different combinations. Plus, it pairs well with my other hobbies.
S&IO: If you had friends visiting from out of town, where do you think you would you take them?
Emma: Depending on the season and what their interests are, I would take them to Kelleys Island to see the Glacial Grooves, walk a trail or two, get some food from the Kelley’s Island Wine Co. (they have good pizza), and just soak in the island vibes. Other options include Cedar Point and downtown Vermilion. All great day’s end with ice cream and enjoying the sunset from one of the many beaches or piers.
S&IO: Perch or pizza?
Emma: Pizza – all the way. See the aforementioned Kelley’s Island Wine Co.!
S&IO: Lake or land? Would you prefer spending time on the water or by the shore?
Emma: Tough question, I’m going with by the shore but anytime I can enjoy the lake makes me happy.
S&IO: Anything else to add regarding becoming “like a local?”
Emma: Sometimes when something is so close, it’s easy to overlook it or not appreciate it for what it is. I think taking time to enjoy the smaller spots and hidden gems allows for the chance to see what makes this area so unique and memorable.
