Meet Erica Elle Miller | Author, Entrepreneur, and Motivational Speaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Erica Elle Miller and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erica Elle, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Despite climbing the corporate ladder, I’ve always harbored a deep-seated passion for creativity. This passion has consistently fueled my curiosity and driven me to explore various forms of artistic expression. Recently, I discovered a profound connection with articulating my thoughts and experiences through words and journaling. This newfound outlet for self-expression culminated in the creation of my two books, *Gumbo 1.0* and *Gumbo 2.0: Ingredients of Being a Woman*. In these works, I delve into the multifaceted nature of womanhood, drawing on personal anecdotes and reflective insights to craft narratives that resonate with a wide audience.

My journey into the creative world, however, didn’t start with writing. Even back in college, my enthusiasm for artistic expression was evident. Alongside being an ambitious student, I founded a dance troupe that, remarkably, continues to thrive today. This dance troupe wasn’t just an extracurricular activity; it was a testament to my dedication and a haven where I, along with others, could explore and celebrate our creativity. The joy of seeing the troupe flourish and impact others reaffirmed my belief in the power of creative endeavors.

My excitement for the creative industry extends beyond dance and writing. Being creative is inherently part of who I am. It’s what sets me apart in this vast world and allows me to share a unique aspect of Erica with others.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My books are more than just collections of short stories and journal entries; they are a mosaic of my thoughts, experiences, and reflections over the years. Every page is infused with my essence, capturing the ebbs and flows of my journey. For me, these books are not just works of fiction but mirrors that reflect who I am. Whenever I commit to something, it becomes an integral part of my personal brand—it becomes an extension of ME.

When I host events, for instance, they are a vivid reflection of my personality and creative spirit. I meticulously craft experiences where attendees feel enveloped in a beautiful space adorned with stunning decor. I aim to foster an atmosphere where great energy circulates, where people feel ready to mingle, uplift one another, and create meaningful connections. This is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an environment that embodies positivity and communal joy.

I’m most proud of the two books I’ve published, “Gumbo 1.0” and “Gumbo 2.0: Ingredients of Being a Woman”. Seeing these works resonate with so many people and becoming a best-selling author is incredibly fulfilling. But beyond the accolades, I’m excited about the impact my work has on others—the way it sparks conversations, provokes thought, and offers a sense of connection.

Getting to where I am today was far from easy. Losing my mother at a young age meant I had to navigate much of my life independently. Every step forward has required grit, determination, and an unwavering commitment to my goals. There were countless late nights, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt. However, I refused to let any circumstance or mishap deter me. I remained steadfast in my vision and adapted to challenges with resilience.

Overcoming challenges involved a mix of self-belief, support from mentors and friends, and a lot of hard work. Whenever I faced obstacles, I reminded myself that each challenge was an opportunity to grow and learn. I relied heavily on my creativity, using it not just as a form of expression but as a tool for problem-solving. I also sought advice and encouragement from people who believed in me and my vision. Their support helped me stay focused and motivated during tough times.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The Ultimate Week in Atlanta: An Itinerary by Erica Elle

Day 1: Welcome to Atlanta!
– Morning: Start with a hearty Southern breakfast at the iconic West Egg Cafe in West Midtown. Their fried chicken and waffles are a must-try.
– Afternoon: Head to the Georgia Aquarium – one of the largest aquariums in the world. There is a mesmerizing dolphin show or the Ocean Voyager exhibit.
– Evening: Dinner at The Optimist, also in West Midtown, known for its delicious seafood and chic, nautical ambiance.

Day 2: A Taste of Southern Charm
– Morning: Start your day with brunch at The Flying Biscuit Cafe renowned for its mouthwatering biscuits and creamy grits.
– Afternoon: Take in some culture at the High Museum of Art, featuring an impressive collection of classic and contemporary pieces.
– Evening: Enjoy a traditional Southern dinner at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, an Atlanta institution for Southern comfort food. They are known for their famous fried chicken and sweet tea.

Day 3: History and Heritage
– Morning: Start with a visit to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. Explore Dr. King’s childhood home, the church where he preached, and the inspiring Visitor Center.
– Midday: Lunch at Paschal’s, a historic restaurant known for its soul food and civil rights history.
– Afternoon: Head to the Atlanta History Center in Buckhead. Spend time at the exhibit on Atlanta’s history or stroll through the beautiful Swan House and gardens.
– Evening: Experience the culinary delights of Busy Bee Cafe, another legendary spot for soul food.

Day 4: Modern Atlanta
– Morning: Grab breakfast at Home Grown GA for some delicious home-cooked specialties like their Comfy Chicken Biscuit.
– Midday: Spend some time at *Ponce City Market*. Walk through the historic Sears building, shop at unique boutiques, and grab lunch at one of the food stalls.
– Afternoon: Rent bikes and ride along the *Atlanta BeltLine*, stopping to admire the street art and murals that give the city its vibrant character. Make sure to take some scenic photos along the way.
– Evening: Head to STK or Oceanaire for dinner, drinks, music and a sophisticated ambience.

Day 5: Exploring Neighborhoods
– Morning: Begin the day with a delightful breakfast at *Sun in My Belly*, a cozy eatery in the Kirkwood neighborhood.
– Afternoon: Spend time in Little Five Points, Atlanta’s eclectic and bohemian neighborhood. Browse through quirky shops, record stores, and enjoy some live street performances.
– Evening: Dine at The Vortex, known for its legendary burgers, and experience the unique vibe that Little Five Points offers.

Day 6: Nature and Relaxation
– Morning: Enjoy a serene morning hike at Stone Mountain Park. We will take the Summit Skyride to the top for breathtaking views.
– Afternoon: Head to the spa at the Four Seasons for a relaxing massage and champagne.
– Dinner at Pasha Restaurant and Lounge in Buckhead for Mediterranean eats and drinks.

Day 7: A Grand Farewell
– Morning: Begin the final day with an indulgent breakfast at *Buttermilk Kitchen*, famous for its biscuits and farm-fresh ingredients.
– Afternoon: Visit the *Atlanta Zoo* in Grant Park. It’s home to a variety of exotic animals, including the famous giant pandas.
– Evening: Finish the week with an unforgettable dinner at Canoe, located along the Chattahoochee River. The serene riverside setting and exceptional cuisine make for a perfect closing to an amazing week.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would love to dedicate this feature to some incredibly important people in my life who have shaped me into who I am today. I dedicate this to my beloved grandmother, Lela, and to my mother and her siblings, whose lives were tragically cut short. Each of them passed away very young, and their absence has been profoundly felt every day. Just last week, my uncle also left us, adding another layer of loss to my journey.

Their spirits are with me through both the good and the hard times. I feel their presence guiding me, protecting me, and inspiring me to keep moving forward. It’s their strength and resilience that I carry with me, and I appreciate the invisible hand they play in my life. This dedication is for them, for every smile, every tear, and every ounce of courage I’ve drawn from their love and legacy. They are my silent supporters, and I am eternally grateful for their continued protection and inspiration.

Thank you for giving me the space to highlight them and the significant impact they’ve had on my life. It’s their spirits that have forged my path and continue to uplift me, even in their absence. This feature is a tribute to their everlasting love and guidance.

Website: https://www.everythingericaelle.com/

Instagram: theericaelle

Facebook: Erica Elle