Rachael Avara-Child shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Rachael, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I recently welcomed my first child this past June, and she has truly been the greatest blessing. Every day feels incredibly rewarding as I watch her grow and discover new things. Becoming a mother has brought a whole new sense of joy and perspective to my life, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to experience this journey with her.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Rachael Avara-Child, and I’m the founder of ROAM Events, a full-service wedding and event planning company. I’ve been in the events industry since 2013, producing and designing weddings, corporate gatherings, and social events across the United States. What makes ROAM unique is the level of detail and service we bring to every celebration. My background as a yacht stewardess for ultra-high-net-worth clients taught me the art of discretion, precision, and anticipating needs before they arise, all of which now influence how I approach event planning.
Working in the yachting industry gave me a deep understanding of what true luxury service looks like. It is not just about creating a beautiful design; it is about delivering a seamless, elevated experience where every guest feels cared for and every moment flows effortlessly. That perspective allows me to bring a refined level of hospitality to ROAM’s events while still making them warm, meaningful, and deeply personal.
At the end of the day, my passion lies in connection and storytelling, whether through an intimate dinner or a large-scale wedding, and I love bringing my clients’ visions to life in a way that feels both thoughtful and extraordinary.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that really shaped how I see the world was when I left my hometown of Baltimore in 2019 to pursue a career in the yachting industry. Growing up in Baltimore, which many fondly call “Smalltimore” because everyone seems to know everyone, my world felt very close-knit and familiar. When I moved to Florida to begin my yachting journey, everything changed. Suddenly, I was surrounded by people from all corners of the globe — South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, England — and immersed in an industry that brings so many cultures together in such a unique way.
I’ll never forget my first season in yachting, sitting on the bow of a yacht in Turkey as the call to prayer rang out over the water. In that moment, I felt like I was in an entirely different world. It was eye-opening and humbling, and it made me realize how much beauty there is in stepping outside of what’s familiar. That experience completely shifted my perspective and gave me a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and for the experiences that shape us when we’re willing to explore beyond our comfort zones.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that held me back the most was worrying that people would think less of me professionally because I never completed college. I did a semester at a community college before realizing that traditional school just wasn’t the right path for me. For a long time, I carried the insecurity that not having a degree would limit my opportunities or make others doubt my abilities.
That shifted when I began my career in events and was fortunate to work with a mentor who not only believed in me but also encouraged me to see my worth beyond a diploma. She taught me everything I know about the industry, and with her guidance, I grew into the courageous and confident professional I am today. That experience showed me that passion, hard work, and a willingness to learn can take you just as far — if not further — than the traditional route.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies the wedding industry tells itself is that the “average” wedding in the United States costs $30,000. That number has been circulated for years, but it’s just not a realistic reflection of what couples actually spend. Wedding budgets vary dramatically depending on location, guest count, and priorities, and there’s no one-size-fits-all figure that can truly represent the average.
On top of that, the influence of social media and Pinterest often highlights only the most high-end, curated side of the industry, which can give couples unrealistic expectations about what their money will actually achieve. I think it’s important to have more transparent conversations about costs so couples can feel empowered and informed rather than pressured or misled.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I truly feel like I’m doing what I was born to do. I’ve always had a deeply creative side, and design in all its forms — whether events, interiors, or even graphics — has always inspired me. What I love most about my work is that it allows me to channel that creativity into experiences that leave a lasting impression.
People sometimes overlook how impactful design really is. Something as seemingly simple as a tablescape, a wedding invitation, or even the choice of linen or typography can completely set the tone for the experience guests are about to have. I find so much joy in those details, knowing that they have the power to shape how a moment feels. To me, that’s the art of what I do — creating atmospheres that are not only beautiful but also meaningful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.eventsbyroam.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roam.events
Image Credits
Joanna Brown Studio, Mary Neumann Photography, The Cardonas, Zulie Rego, Zai Laffitte, NR Photo & Film
