Meet Kayla Ellis! She has been married to her husband Mason for 5 years. She has a big family, and her nieces
and nephews are her whole world!
Q: What do you do for a living and what do you like most about it?
I’m the investor engagement director for the White County Chamber of Commerce. I love everything about my job, but my favorite thing about it is the people. I have the opportunity to work for, with, and alongside the most amazing people in the world.
Q: What advice would you want to give or leave with people? Or , If you could go back in time to give yourself some wisdom, what would you say?
“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24. Whatever you do, do it wholeheartedly and serve the Lord in doing it! Whether it’s work, relationships, or anything else, I don’t want to look back on my life and think that I have half-way done something
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Montana. I’ve always wanted to travel out west!
Q: What is the most beautiful place in the world you have already visited?
Not to sound cheesy, but the most beautiful place I’ve ever been is here! I just think we’ve got the best scenery, from mountain top views to waterfalls to pastures.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Carol Jackson! She’s such a role model and inspiration to me, and she is one of my biggest cheerleaders. I lovingly refer to her as my “chamber grandmother.” We would walk up to Tipsy Tomato.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Ol Clyde’s, Bigg Daddy’s, Francesco’s, Soda Fountain, Spice 55 and too many others to count!
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived in White County for about 5 years, but White County has always been so special to me because my grandparents have lived here my whole life.
Q: Who, in our community, do you think is happy and positive and would be a great next interview for this project? This person will be your nomination!
Jessica Barton of The Refined Table. She is such a delight!
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
The Old Sautee Store. I have so many sweet memories of using the bubble wands outside the store for hours after enjoying a sandwich and an ice cream with my Nana.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
We live where people vacation! It’s such a blessing to have such beautiful views whether it’s on your drive to work or just leaving Walmart!
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
My favorite TV show is definitely Gilmore Girls, but I also love the Office and Parks & Rec.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
While I like strawberry flavored things, I don’t like strawberries.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
A 10/10 day is walking the Helen to Hardman Trail into Helen, grabbing an Iced Cowboy Coffee at Yonah Coffee and reading a book in a swing by the river.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Needtobreathe or Drew Holcombe & the Neighbors.
Q: If you were given ONE EXTRA HOUR every day, and you could not use it for sleep, work, or with anyone else, what would you use it for?
Read….hands down!
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
I’d love to go to Alaska!
Q: Favorite month? Favorite holiday? And the absolute best single day on the calendar?
I love November through December because I start decorating for Christmas in early November. I love Thanksgiving food, but I love the magic of Christmas.