Meet Adria Marshall | Owner of EcoSlay, Published Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Adria Marshall and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Adria, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
EcoSlay began as a personal search for better options. When I went natural, I was frustrated by how limited and misaligned the products were for textured hair—either they didn’t work well, were filled with questionable ingredients, or required constant trial and error. As an engineer and lifelong problem-solver, I couldn’t accept that as the norm.

I started learning how ingredients actually function and began experimenting in my kitchen with simple, plant-based ingredients like flaxseed and aloe—many of which I could grow or source locally. Not only did they work, they worked better than what I had been buying. When others started asking for what I was making and one product went viral, I realized the gap was much bigger than my own experience.

EcoSlay was born from the belief that people shouldn’t have to choose between performance, health, and sustainability. I wanted to build a company that delivered real results while being transparent about ingredients, mindful of the environment, and committed to community. At its core, EcoSlay exists to challenge how beauty is done—and to prove that better systems are possible.

What should our readers know about your business?
EcoSlay is a plant-powered hair-care brand built on performance, sustainability, and integrity. What sets us apart is that these values guide how we do business—not just what we say. From Farm-to-Pouch sourcing to refillable packaging and community partnerships, EcoSlay was designed as a thoughtful system, not just a product line.

Before becoming an entrepreneur, I worked as a software developer and IT project manager, and those roles deeply shaped how I built the company. I approached EcoSlay like an engineering problem—testing, documenting, and improving processes. Skills like systems thinking, data analysis, and long-term planning helped me scale intentionally rather than reactively.

The journey wasn’t easy. I faced challenges around manufacturing, cash flow, and staying aligned with my values while growing. I overcame them by staying grounded in purpose, building strong partnerships, and trusting that doing things the right way would create lasting impact. What I want the world to know is that EcoSlay proves you don’t have to sacrifice integrity or performance to build a successful brand—alignment is the real advantage.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Atlanta for a week and I wanted them to have the best time, I’d give them a mix of energy, culture, wellness, and late nights—because Atlanta really shines when you experience all of it.

We’d start our days strong with a good workout—maybe a morning yoga or sculpt class at CORE Power Yoga or The Daily Pilates, followed by a walk or bike ride along the Atlanta BeltLine. After that, it’s spa time. I’d book a reset at JeJu Sauna or Platinum Spa for a full-body recharge—massages, steam rooms, and just enough stillness before the night energy kicks in.

For food, Atlanta’s Latin scene is a must. We’d hit El Tesoro for tacos, Rreal Tacos for dinner and margaritas, and Ponce City Market for a little bit of everything. One night would definitely include Buena Vida Tapas or Calle Latina for great vibes and even better cocktails.

When it comes to nightlife, Atlanta’s Latin energy really comes alive. We’d spend late nights dancing at Havana Club, Sanctuary, or El Malo, where the music, culture, and crowd are always electric. These are the kinds of places where you don’t just go out—you feel Atlanta.

In between, we’d explore neighborhoods like Little Five Points, Old Fourth Ward, and West Midtown, checking out art, pop-ups, and hidden gems. The week would be about balance—movement, relaxation, great food, vibrant culture, and unforgettable nights. That’s Atlanta at its best.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I dedicate my shoutout to God. My faith has been the foundation for every step of this journey—guiding my decisions, shaping my values, and grounding me through both uncertainty and growth. I truly believe EcoSlay exists because I was willing to listen, trust, and move in obedience, even when the path wasn’t fully clear.

I also want to recognize my family—especially my husband and children—whose love, patience, and encouragement carried me through the long hours and inevitable challenges of entrepreneurship. Their belief in me made it possible to keep going.

Lastly, I’m grateful for the mentors, community partners, farmers, and authors who challenged my thinking and reminded me that business can be built with integrity, stewardship, and care for people and the planet. Each of these influences played a meaningful role in shaping both my company and my calling.

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