Emily Campbell has been bringing people together through unforgettable events since 1997. As the founder of GoBella Event Design and Planning, she’s designed weddings and gatherings in over 40 countries—turning moments into lasting memories everywhere from Colorado to the Caribbean, Asia to Africa.

Known for her keen eye, calm presence, and deep love for celebration, Emily blends timeless style with thoughtful intention. She’s a creative powerhouse with global perspective, a generous spirit, and a gift for making everyone feel like the guest of honor.

Her work has been featured by Vogue, Martha Stewart, BRIDES, and The Knot, and she continues to shape the industry through leadership roles with WIPA, VOW for Girls, and the Engage! Foundation. Whether she’s curating a destination wedding or hosting a cozy dinner at home, Emily leads with heart, hospitality, and a belief that every detail matters.

Q: How do you help guests feel comfortable and break the ice?

I like to welcome each of my guests and personally make introductions between strangers, and mention something they have in common to initiate the conversation.

She believes in the power of intentional connections. With a few thoughtful words bridging strangers, the atmosphere becomes instantly warmer — and the conversation flows.

Q: What makes a gathering truly memorable?

Choosing the right guests, making people feel welcome, and keeping the stress of the kitchen a non‑issue (hire someone to keep the kitchen clean and manage the food distribution).

For Emily, it’s not about lavish decor or expensive china. What lingers long after the dishes are cleared is connection, ease, laughter — and a host who isn’t missing the party because they’re stuck in the kitchen.

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Q: If hosting feels overwhelming, what's your biggest piece of advice?

Start with a small group, a manageable menu, hire someone to keep the kitchen clean, delegate dishes for guests to bring.

Keep it simple. Keep it real. Delegate where needed.

Q: Go-to soundtrack for a dinner‑party at home?

My playlist: Jazzy Jazz — a curated mix of traditional standards (think Sinatra, Fitzgerald), European lounge vibes, and Afro‑beat rhythms.

It’s refined, cozy, and worldly — the kind of background that encourages good conversation and easy laughter.

Q: What’s your favorite party trick?

Have the house ready when guests arrive. Don’t scramble. Have the music playing, the bar open, and something to eat set out.

Because the first few minutes set the tone. Guests arrive to warmth, music, and a drink — and they immediately know: this night is going to unfold slowly, comfortably, beautifully.

Q: Most memorable party or gathering?

One of Emily’s most memorable evenings? A holiday dinner party in San Francisco, co-hosted with two close friends and fellow creatives in the events world: Kathleen Deery, owner of Paula LeDuc Fine Catering, and Diana Perrin, founder of Casa de Perrin. The night unfolded like a movie:

• They started in the kitchen — shucking oysters, serving blinis with champagne while a cellist played nearby.
  
• Then moved to a dining room — set with red china and white peonies, serving cioppino, sourdough bread, and other culinary delights. An accordion player serenaded them with stories and songs.
  
• After dinner, they gathered in the living room around a Christmas tree and piano. A jazz quartet sang under soft lights as they sipped cordials.

That night wasn’t about lavish budgets or extravagant decor. It was about intention, connection, sensory richness — and people coming together with heart.

For Emily, that’s what great hosting really is.

Q: Hosting Favorites & Go‑To Pieces?

When Emily sets her table or preps for a gathering, these are her go-to pieces:

• Freshly pressed linens from Pottery Barn
  
• Vintage Fostoria place settings
  
• Hand‑dipped taper candles from Whole Foods

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Get inspired by Emily’s thoughtful, intentional approach to gathering — follow her on Instagram @gobelladesign, or explore her work at GoBella.com. When you’re ready to craft a gathering of your own, Partytrick offers curated templates, smart guidance, and everything you need in one streamlined space. Sign up for a free Partytrick account to turn your vision into a beautiful, memorable occasion.