We recently connected with Erica Elle Miller and have shared our conversation below.
Erica, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been one of the most interesting investments you’ve made – and did you win or lose? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)
One of the most challenging investments I made was owning a salon. At the time, I saw it as a way to gain independence and create something I was passionate about. However, it turned out to be much more difficult than I anticipated. Managing staff, handling the hiring and firing process, and maintaining enough revenue to keep the business afloat required intense time and effort. I often found myself juggling multiple roles, from operations to customer service, all while trying to maintain a positive and professional work environment.
In the end, the financial and personal investment I made didn’t yield the results I had hoped for, and I ultimately decided to close the salon. Through this experience, I learned valuable lessons about the importance of understanding all aspects of a business before diving in, especially the financial and operational demands. It also taught me about resilience and adaptability, as I had to quickly learn new skills to address issues as they arose. While it was a difficult experience, it’s one I carry forward as a reminder of both the risks and rewards involved in entrepreneurship.
Erica, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
My name is Erica Miller, and my journey spans multiple industries and roles, each one contributing to who I am today. I’m a 2x author, motivational speaker, and career coach, dedicated to inspiring others and sharing insights from my diverse experiences in business and personal growth. My work initially began with a passion for creativity and helping others, which has evolved into a multifaceted career where I empower individuals to pursue their own paths and find success on their terms.
I entered the business world by owning a salon, where I learned firsthand the challenges of managing a team, handling the intricacies of hiring and firing, and keeping a business afloat. This experience taught me resilience and gave me a deep understanding of the dedication required to succeed.
Today, I’m developing a unique wine brand, Wine Line Eloquent, which combines my love for craftsmanship and my commitment to quality. This brand isn’t just about wine; it’s about creating an experience, bringing people together over shared passions, and building something authentic. Additionally, I’m working on an exciting concept—a creative storefront that combines CBD, wine tasting and making, crafts, and music. This venture is about offering a space for relaxation, exploration, and connection.
What sets me apart is my dedication to quality, my genuine investment in my clients’ needs, and a drive to create experiences that are meaningful and lasting. As a career coach, I draw on my journey to guide others, helping them develop professionally and personally. Through my books and motivational speaking, I aim to inspire and empower individuals to turn challenges into stepping stones.
Ultimately, my mission is to build a brand and legacy that embodies passion, authenticity, and community. I want clients, followers, and fans to know that everything I create is built on a foundation of quality, integrity, and a commitment to enriching lives
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the deeply personal journey of taking something from within—my heart, vision, and imagination—and transforming it into a tangible, real-world experience. There’s something profoundly fulfilling about seeing my ideas, which start as abstract thoughts or images in my mind, take shape and come to life. It’s a process that allows me to express who I am and share a piece of myself with others, whether it’s a product, a piece of writing, or a unique experience I’ve crafted for my clients.
Being a creative means I get to work with my hands and mind, blending inspiration with intention, and there’s nothing quite like watching someone connect with what I’ve made. Knowing that something I envisioned now resonates with others and adds meaning to their lives is incredibly powerful. This journey—of going from a spark of inspiration to a finished piece—fuels my passion and reminds me that creativity is not just about making things; it’s about sharing something deeply personal and authentic.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
My journey has been shaped by resilience from a very young age. I lost my mother when I was just six years old, which taught me to find strength within myself early on. Later, as a teenage single mother, I faced the responsibility of raising twin boys and a daughter while putting myself through college. Balancing classes, work, and motherhood was challenging, but I was determined to create a better life for us, even with limited support. Each step required perseverance and a belief that I could overcome the odds.
After college, I took a leap of faith and moved to Atlanta to pursue my dreams with no support system—just my ambitions and a commitment to make things happen. While the journey has had its hurdles, each challenge has reinforced my resilience and taught me the importance of self-belief. These experiences have been foundational, shaping the way I approach my work and inspiring me to help others find strength and purpose in their own lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.everythingericaelle.com
- Instagram: TheEricaElle
- Facebook: Erica Elle
