April ANNEfluencer of the Month

Ellen’s journey started at East Carolina University, where she studied Neuroscience and Psychology, setting her sights on a career in medicine focused on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome research. But when the funding for her research fell through, she found herself at a crossroads. Refusing to be defeated, Ellen pivoted—taking on a role at REAL Crisis Suicide Hotline while nurturing a side hustle: a mobile spray tan business.

Growing up in Barbecue, NC, and striking out on her own in Greenville wasn’t easy. But Ellen pressed on, eventually opening her first brick-and-mortar spray tan studio—a space that provided her a place to live and work, though it came with one major challenge: no air conditioning. If you’ve ever experienced a Carolina summer, you know that’s no small feat for a spray tan artist!

When she faced obstacles, Ellen turned to her father, who kept her grounded with the saying:
“Are you eating honey and crackers yet?”—a reminder that things could always be worse and that she had the strength to push through.

And push through she did. Ellen mastered her craft through continuing education, built a loyal clientele, and in May 2019, she opened Southern Soleil’s current location at 802 Dickinson Avenue. Her business has been thriving ever since.

Ellen is living proof that when you follow your passion, success follows. During my time with her, I saw firsthand how spray tanning is more than just a beauty service—it’s an artform. But Ellen’s impact goes even deeper.

Her keen eye and knowledge of skin health have led her to encourage clients to have certain spots checked by doctors—some of which were later diagnosed as melanoma. Through her work, she’s helping women not just look and feel their best, but also stay healthy.

Ellen embodies the spirit of a resilient Pirate Anne woman—bold, determined, and unafraid to chart her own course.. 

@southernsoleil

P.S. @pirateanneslays loved the “House Rules”

#SouthernSoleil #SprayTanArtist #WomenInBusiness #PirateAnne #GlowUp #SunlessTanning