Meet Elena Colquitt

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

Hi Elena, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My decision to start my own business was driven by a combination of personal experience and professional expertise. Following my graduation in 2007, I entered a volatile job market within the finance industry. After enduring two layoffs, it became evident to me that traditional notions of job security were increasingly precarious. This realization prompted a shift in perspective.

Recognizing my strengths and passion for assisting individuals in managing their finances effectively, I saw an opportunity to create something meaningful. I wanted to empower people to take control of their financial futures, aligning their resources with their long-term goals and aspirations.

Starting my own business allowed me to leverage my expertise to provide personalized financial guidance and support to clients. It also offered the autonomy and flexibility to innovate and adapt in an ever-changing economic landscape. Ultimately, my decision was rooted in a desire to make a positive impact and to create a more secure and prosperous future for both myself and those I serve.

What should our readers know about your business?
At MoneyMate, we’re not just another financial service provider—we’re a partner in your journey towards financial empowerment and success. What sets us apart is our commitment to proactive, goal-oriented financial planning that goes beyond simply analyzing past spending habits. We believe in creating actionable plans that align your cash flow with your unique goals, helping you make informed decisions about your financial future.

Our approach is rooted in proven business practices, refined over years of experience, and tailored to meet the specific needs of each client. We understand that talking about past spending mistakes isn’t always productive. Instead, we focus on creating a roadmap for your future finances, providing you with the tools and support you need to stay on track.

What I’m most proud of is the dedication of our team at MoneyMate. We’re not just financial experts—we’re problem solvers, innovators, and advocates for our clients’ success. Over the past decade, we’ve worked tirelessly to refine our processes, develop cutting-edge technology, and build strong relationships with our clients.

But let me be honest—it hasn’t been easy. The first few years of any business are filled with challenges, setbacks, and uncertainty. It takes a tremendous amount of muscle, grit, resilience, and tenacity to overcome these obstacles and keep moving forward. And on top of that, I’ve been raising two small children.

Unfortunately, there are still outdated stereotypes that suggest women can’t handle the demands of entrepreneurship and motherhood simultaneously. But let me set the record straight—I’m living proof that women can not only handle it but excel at it. Every day, I’m proud to defy expectations and prove that with determination and support, anything is possible.

As for the lessons I’ve learned along the way, there are too many to count. But if there’s one thing I want the world to know about MoneyMate, it’s this: we’re not just here to manage your money, we’re here to empower you to take control of your financial future using AI and Machine learning. And with our proven approach and dedicated team by your side, the possibilities are limitless.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Absolutely, Atlanta offers a vibrant mix of cultural experiences, culinary delights, and entertainment options. Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip:

**Day 1:**
– Morning: Start with brunch at Highland Bakery in the Virginia-Highland neighborhood.
– Afternoon: Explore the Atlanta BeltLine, starting at the Eastside Trail for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
– Evening: Head to Ponce City Market for dinner at one of the many eateries and enjoy the rooftop views.

**Day 2:**
– Morning: Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and learn about the Civil Rights Movement.
– Afternoon: Have lunch at Krog Street Market, followed by a stroll along the nearby Atlanta Street Art Murals.
– Evening: Experience live music at Eddie’s Attic in Decatur.

**Day 3:**
– Morning: Take a tour of the World of Coca-Cola and sample Coke products from around the world.
– Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at The Varsity, a beloved Atlanta institution known for its chili dogs and onion rings.
– Evening: Catch a show at the Fox Theatre, a stunning historic venue.

**Day 4:**
– Morning: Visit the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world.
– Afternoon: Have lunch at The Optimist in West Midtown, known for its fresh seafood.
– Evening: Explore the nightlife in the Buckhead district, with options for cocktails, dancing, and live music.

**Day 5:**
– Morning: Spend the morning at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, admiring the lush greenery and beautiful blooms.
– Afternoon: Have lunch at Mary Mac’s Tea Room for some Southern comfort food.
– Evening: Attend a performance at the Alliance Theatre or catch a comedy show at The Punchline.

**Day 6:**
– Morning: Take a day trip to Stone Mountain Park for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and scenic gondola rides.
– Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch at the park.
– Evening: Return to Atlanta and unwind with dinner and drinks at Sweet Auburn Seafood.

**Day 7:**
– Morning: Wrap up your trip with a visit to the High Museum of Art, featuring a diverse collection of artwork.
– Afternoon: Have brunch at Sun in My Belly in the Kirkwood neighborhood.
– Evening: Relax and reflect on your trip over drinks at The Sound Table in Old Fourth Ward.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse culinary scene, Atlanta offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks, discovering hidden gems, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, you’re sure to have a memorable experience in the ATL!

Absolutely, Atlanta is brimming with exciting places to eat, drink, and explore. Here’s a rundown of some must-visit spots:

**Eat:**
– **Peter Street Area:** Indulge in the artsy vibe and enjoy a paint and sip session at one of the local studios. Afterwards, grab a bite at one of the eclectic eateries in the area, like Gio’s Chicken Amalfitano for delicious Italian fare.
– **Highlands Area:** Explore the vibrant dining scene in this neighborhood, with options ranging from upscale dining at Bacchanalia to casual eats at Yeah! Burger.
– **Crescent Street:** Embark on a culinary adventure with a stroll along Crescent Street, home to a variety of restaurants offering diverse cuisines. Don’t miss out on the mouthwatering dishes at STK Atlanta or the lively atmosphere at the Atlanta Comedy Theater.
– **Howell Mill District:** Experience the burgeoning food scene in this area, where you can enjoy rooftop cocktails at The Painted Pin or indulge in modern Southern cuisine at JCT. Kitchen & Bar.

**Drink:**
– **East Atlanta Village:** Sip on craft cocktails and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of East Atlanta Village. Check out The Earl for live music or Argosy for a wide selection of beers on tap.
– **Crescent Street:** After dinner, continue your evening with a bar hop along Crescent Street. Stop by establishments like The Red Phone Booth for speakeasy vibes or Moondogs for a casual drink with friends.
– **Howell Mill District:** Take advantage of the vibrant nightlife scene in this area, where you can find trendy rooftop bars like The Roof at Ponce City Market or enjoy cocktails with a view at New Realm Brewing Company.

**Visit:**
– **Party in the Park:** Join the festivities at one of Atlanta’s famous Party in the Park events, held regularly throughout the year. Enjoy live music, food trucks, and a lively atmosphere in some of Atlanta’s most scenic parks.
– **Atlanta BeltLine:** Explore the Atlanta BeltLine, a former railway corridor transformed into a multi-use trail that connects neighborhoods and offers stunning views of the city skyline. Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to explore the various art installations along the way.
– **Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site:** Pay homage to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a visit to this historic site, which includes the King Center, Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the Historic Fire Station No. 6.

Whether you’re looking for culinary delights, craft cocktails, or cultural experiences, Atlanta has something to offer for every taste and interest. So grab your friends and explore all that this vibrant city has to offer!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to my parents for their unwavering support and belief in me throughout my journey. Despite their understandable concern about my unconventional approach to life and business—like metaphorically “jumping out of planes and building parachutes on the way down”—they’ve always stood by me.

Their steadfast encouragement and the values they imparted, particularly their emphasis on a strong work ethic and the belief that each generation should strive to surpass the last, have been foundational in shaping my ambitions and drive.

Their belief in me fuels my determination to disrupt the finance market and exceed even their expectations. With their support as my guiding force, I am committed to realizing my vision and making them proud as I forge ahead in my entrepreneurial endeavors.

Website: https://ehmoneymate.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ehmoneymate/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ehmoneymate/?viewAsMember=true

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eHMoneyMate/