A graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, Maria initially pursued a career in musical theater in Manhattan. At the same time, she was starting her own bridal headpiece design company, where she learned the ins and outs of new media and online marketing.

Relocating to Nashville in 2009, the Little Rock native began to apply her marketing skills with her creative background, helping friends launch their new businesses.

In 2015, Maria established her own social media company, Lightning Flash Creative.

Maria serves on the board of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) as the social media chair. She also serves as Lead Social Media Manager for Nashville Creative Mornings.