At Thomas’ own Ella & Company, Erika Smith is fostering a space of possibilities and beauty, choosing each detail for a welcoming and inspirational experience.
Written by Erika Smith
From unique fossils and rocks to vintage pieces and antiques, I’ve been a true hunter and gatherer for as long as I can remember—moved by not only the quality of things made in the “good ole days,” but the stories they tell and the life they’ve lived. I founded Ella & Company in 2015 as a wedding and event planning and design, floral, and specialty vintage rental company with the hopes of a brick and mortar shop—opened in 2016. I strive to find goods that are thoughtfully curated to be lived in, loved on, and truly inspire your heart, your home, and your life.
CHOOSING ELLA
As a kid and even now as an adult, at very special occasions my family would call me “Ell” or simply write it on a special birthday or graduation card. I loved the nostalgia of how that small gesture of a nickname made me feel, and I thought a rendition of that to continue as a touch of a family legacy would be one way to memorialize that feeling with something more lasting.
PLANNING FOR OTHERS
I truly love people and find so much joy in getting to know and learn about the details of my clients and gathering clues about their lives—who they are and what is important to them—and then translating those puzzle pieces of information through deep and thoughtful designs and detailed planning.
NOT IN STORE
I thoroughly enjoy the outdoors and enjoy spending time hiking, rock hunting, working in the flower garden, exploring national parks and national forests, spending time with my family, and going on adventures with my nieces and nephews.
A PIECE OF ADVICE
I have always believed, if you find something that captivates you and you are drawn to—whether it’s beautiful or makes you happy or even laugh—just pull the trigger and buy it.
A MUST-HAVE
I especially love the hand-painted windows and light-up marquee signs. An artist and dear friend hand-paints on the reverse side of antique windows with beautiful designs inspired by vintage signage and advertisements and creates one-of-a-kind large-scale marquee light-up signs that look like they have been taken down from historic western roadside motels, gas stations, and century-old businesses.
I’ve always believed that success is not only doing what you love to do but being in a place you want to be, and for me that was back home in Tucker County, one of the most beautiful places in the country, near my family and the spaces and places that grew me.
COME BE INSPIRED
250 East Avenue, Thomas, ellaandcompany.co @ellaandcompany.co on FB
READ MORE ARTICLES FROM WV LIVING’S SPRING 2026 ISSUE
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