Today we’d like to introduce you to Emrie Carlton-Jackson.
Hi Emrie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I fell in love with wine from the ground up. I started out by self-educating and working at local shops to learn the trade. The real turning point came when my husband caught the bug, too. We both became captivated by the geography, history, and agriculture of wine, and exploring it together made me realize where I belonged. I knew then that I wanted to make a career in the industry and eventually open a shop of my own, which laid the foundation for everything we’re doing today.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth, linear road. We’ve had our fair share of ups and downs. But to be honest, I’ve always viewed those struggles less as roadblocks and more as creative puzzles to solve. I thrive on creative challenges and love taking a tricky situation and turning it into an opportunity to add our own unique, detailed touch. Whether it’s navigating industry logistics or curating a lineup that stands out, we approach every hurdle as a chance to refine who we are and make the shop even more special for our community.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I own Territory Wine Market, where I wear a lot of hats. I’m the buyer, manager, and creative director. I also publish Territory Publication, an annual magazine that highlights and elevates other local businesses in our area.
What sets us apart, and what I think I’m most known for, is bringing a strong creative eye and meticulous design aesthetic to everything we touch. A wine shop can easily feel overwhelming or clinical, but I treat the market as a curated experience where art, community, and agriculture meet.
Our growth has been entirely organic, rooted in genuine connections rather than flashy gimmicks. What I’m most proud of is what we’ve managed to create right here in our town: a vibrant gathering space through the market, and a platform through the publication that shines a spotlight on the incredible community of business owners around us.
What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is the pursuit of excellence. Running a business without ever compromising on how we treat people. Holding an exceptionally high standard for our market and publication means nothing if we aren’t lifting up the human element behind it all. For me, that means creating a culture of deep respect for our employees, building genuine relationships with our community, and ensuring that every single person who interacts with our brand feels valued. Success, to me, is defined by maintaining that standard of quality while staying grounded in integrity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.territorywinemarket.com
- Instagram: territorywine
