Maria Morton Owner of Elizabeth’s Closet Reflects On How We Should Embrace Who We Are & The Power We Have To Change People’s Lives With The Words That We Speak and How We Treat Others
Interviewed By Maryan Aiken
“never let the words or actions of others negatively change the wonderful path that is destined for you!”
Maria Morton
Maria Elizabeth’s Closet
Faces By Dior Honoree 2021
Owner
University of Alabama-ROLL TIDE! Marketing
Charity Involvement Board Member of the Paulding Boys and Girls Club
Instagram: @MariaElizabethsCloset Facebook Maria Elizabeth’s Closet
Advertising
DIOR
DIOR SUMMER DUNE
"Neither desert nor beach; between two worlds. The blue sky on the horizon, the beating sun and the waves of sand inspired the bright textures and palette of shades steeped in a natural sensuality in the Summer Dune collection," says @peterphilipsmakeup, Creative & Image Director of Dior Makeup
Dior Summer 2021 Collection. Dior Cosmetics, Fragrance, & Skincare at Macy’s Lenox Square. Call 404 834 9817
FACES BY DIOR
Faces by Dior are the influential Men & Women of Now with relatability factor to confidently propel others with their game changing stories.
They are the Faces of Now with awe inspiring journeys at any age, color and status. They are the frontrunners in championing a profound difference in their professional realm and are strong advocates for the important causes that matter to them most.
Tastemakers
Leaders
Groundbreakers
The Faces by Dior Program was conceptualized and developed by Maryan Aiken in collaboration with Dior Cosmetics Atlanta exclusively on CityBox. Copyright 2019-2021
Advertising
Ebony ruffin founder & ceo of ruffin consulting services raises the bar for life insurance services by offering tailored solutions for everyone
Company Overview
Maria Elizabeth’s Closet Online Boutique is a blend of classic, trendy, and affordable fashion. With the best care taken into selecting each piece, the goal is to provide the everyday working and social woman the best selections for social gatherings, celebrations, brunch, and vacation.
Q: As we grow and evolve, what is one decision you wish you didn’t make and why?
As we grow and evolve and navigate this thing called life, it’s easy to say we wouldn’t have made the decisions that didn’t turn out in our favor, if we were presented that very same opportunity a 2nd time. Although we must absolutely learn from our mistakes or past hurts, I do believe that without disappointment or painful circumstances, our faith would not be as strong as it is. Growing up, I got teased so much for how I spoke and my height. We ALL can relate to some cruel moments in Middle School/High years! I got teased mostly in Middle school, surprise surprise! But consequently, those years really can shape us and how we view ourselves based of the insecure voices that project onto you! I carried that complex into adulthood, and I would tell myself the same story “I am too tall”, “My hips are too wide”, “I speak too proper”. Hence, my anxiety when came to public speaking. I would have others tell me how they LOVED my voice and how I spoke but internally I didn’t understand why because I believed the narrative that was projected onto me. I eventually made the decision to embrace all that I am, flaws and all! Even though I can say that I am still not 100% comfortable with public speaking, I tell myself to “DO IT AFRAID!”. We all have to take that journey to which we embrace who we are. Beauty is skin deep and we have the power to change other people’s lives with the words that we speak and how we treat others. Stand in that power and never let the words or actions of others negatively change the wonderful path that is destined for you!
Advertising
Live Your Best Life
BIOHACKING. REIKI ENERGY HEALING. REFLEXOLOGY. HYPERVIBE MACHINE. NEURO STIM. ALPHA STIM. JOOV INFRARED LIGHT. BRAINTAP MEDITATION. AFFORDABLE EVERYDAY SELF CARE
WWW.MCIMATLANTA.COM
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO GET YOUR HEALTH RIGHT. ARE YOU READY TO FEEL THE DIFFERENCE? MCIM. INTEGRATIVE. HOLISTIC. FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE.
PHONE: (678) 732-9065 INFO@MCIMATLANTA.COM
NORTHSIDE TOWER
6065 ROSWELL RD, NE #830
ATLANTA, GA 30328
Q: How do you keep your team motivated despite conflicts and obstacles?
In the corporate world, I work in a team environment as a Senior Talent Acquisition Consultant. Identifying top talent in our industry is no easy feat. We run into every obstacle that you can think of. But I focus on what we CAN control. I believe in positive affirmations! “We will find the right people”, “We will bless someone with an amazing opportunity”. It also helps that I work for one of the best Insurance Brokers with competitive resources and I truly believe that so when I speak with a potential candidate, that passion shines through. I stay focused on the end-goal and realize that the work leading up to presenting someone with a lucrative offer will pay off. My job also calls for difficult conversations. I often work best under pressure because I am determined NOT to fail. I understand that my job is essential to impacting our company’s success and growth, so I often use that as fuel to succeed!
Advertising
Let the sunshine in! Visit your favorite Starbucks near you today!
Q: What is something you wish someone had told you during your career journey?
That you don’t have to have it all figured out. Sometimes we are afraid to begin the unknown journey. Starting an online boutique taught me that I am more capable than I thought. The amount of resourcefulness that it takes to manifest a dream is quite intense and if you don’t have the discipline, you won’t succeed. It’s essential to find your “Why”. Write down your goals, talk about your goals and THEN have accountability towards each step in accomplishing those goals. Have a mentor that helps you along the way and keeps you honest. When I decided to finally launch an online boutique, I kept myself accountable to that launch date by publicly announcing to my Social Media following to keep me on track. Because when life gets in the way, it’s easy to procrastinate and say “‘Oh I will do it tomorrow”. No, start TODAY, no matter how small, but START!”. My mom, Michele Cleveland, recently said something that resonated so deeply: “Sometimes God blesses us in inches. Inches turn into feet and feet turn into miles.” Realize that things will also not always go as planned, and that’s ok. Life is about perspective so when you face an unexpected challenge, find ways to work through that challenge! Have a “Venting” partner. But also make sure that you have positive influences surrounding you that speak positivity over you.
Advertising
FOR OVER THREE DECADES, BILL LOWE GALLERY HAS SERVED AS A PORTAL TO GLOBAL VISUAL CULTURE FOR ART ENTHUSIASTS AROUND THE WORLD.
Q: What are your current goals?
My goals are to grow Maria Elizabeth’s Closet to the point of opening several storefronts over the next few years. Considering that Maria Elizabeth’s Closet is an Online Boutique, my mission is for every customer to have an exceptional experience. Women love to look and FEEL good! There is a lot of thought that goes into selecting each garment. I want you to be EXCITED when you receive your merchandise knowing that extreme care and thoughtfulness went into packaging each item. It’s an experience that we want to create, a need that we want to fulfill. We are literally helping women to look their best one person at a time.
Advertising
COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL SOURCE AND INSTALLATION OF ATLANTA’S FINEST FLOORS. HARDWOOD. LUXURY VINYL PLANK. CARPET. TILE
Q: What one thing makes you most proud?
My ability to bounce back from anything that life has thrown at me. I have had moments where I honestly didn’t know what I was next or how would even make it through inexplicably painful situations. WE ALL HAVE! We all have a story. The fact that you are able to live to speak about it is a blessing. So, I have gone through the fire but my outlook on life remains bright and hopeful. I still see the good in people, my faith has been strengthened and I have succeeded professionally and personally. I am so proud of my tribe, my close family and friends who have poured into me and loved me unconditionally.
Advertising
TRINA TURK
Women's Designer Clothing & Contemporary Fashion. Shop our selection of New Arrivals. All New Latest Designer Fashions for Women by Trina Turk. Shop Our Full Collection. Trends from Day to Night · Find Your Inspired Style · Styles: Dresses, Jumpsuits, Rompers, Tops & Swim Wear!
Trina Turk Summer 2021 Ready-to-Wear collection available at Phipps Plaza. 3500 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326 (404) 949 1444
Q: How do you generate great ideas in your organization?
We all have people that can learn from. Oftentimes they are people that are closest to you. My husband is amazing with systems and technical resources. I am great with big vision, customer experience and branding. The fact that we can work so well together and really rely on each other’s strengths is beautiful. I also dedicate time to learning about business, marketing, and different growth strategies throughout the week. I am an avid Podcast geek. I love to hear the perspective of other goal-oriented people! I have my best friends from college. We often bounce business ideas from one another and we keep each other inspired and up to date on industry trends. When you are in that creative mindset, it helps to always have a journal handy, so you don’t lose track of those creative ideas that flood your head. Because if you are in your element, there will be MANY!
Advertising
what to give for mother’s day.
ATLANTA FLORAL DESIGN. CRAFTED WITH INTENTION. FLOWERS FOR HOME. OFFICE. WEDDINGS. BIRTHDAYS. PARTIES. ANNIVERSARIES.
JUST BECAUSE
Q: What is unique about your company and its services?
What is unique about Maria Elizabeth’s Closet is the fact that I have a passion for fashion. Before I started on this journey, I would gladly assist friends and family regarding outfit choices for events or photoshoots. I am the friend that LOVES sitting for hours finding the PERFECT outfit! I would be remiss if I did not mention that there’s a group of women that also bask in the joy of taking photos. In order to get the best photos, you must look and feel your best. That joy in what I do translates over to the experience of the “Maria Elizabeth’s Closet” customer. We take great care of each customer and each package because we want you to be EXCITED from beginning to end. From navigating the website and choosing your items, to receiving and opening your package for the grand reveal.
Advertising
WITH MYIBROWS APP, YOUR BROWS ARE ON JUST RIGHT, YOU NEED NOTHING ELSE TO MAKE YOU FEEL SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL.
FACES BY DIOR
Faces by Dior are the influential Men & Women of Now with relatability factor to confidently propel others with their game changing stories.
They are the Faces of Now with awe inspiring journeys at any age, color and status. They are the frontrunners in championing a profound difference in their professional realm and are strong advocates for the important causes that matter to them most.
Tastemakers
Leaders
Groundbreakers
The Faces by Dior Program was conceptualized and developed by Maryan Aiken in collaboration with Dior Cosmetics Atlanta exclusively on CityBox. Copyright 2019-2021
Advertising
ESCAPE THE HOME OFFICE TO A PROFESSIONAL WORK ENVIRONMENT WITH SERENDIPITY LABS ATLANTA. PRIVATE OFFICES & TEAM ROOMS DESIGNED WITH AMPLE SPACE FOR CONTINUED SOCIAL DISTANCING.
Q: What was your first job ever?
My first job was while I was in High School at the age of 16. I honestly could not wait to work! My mother was such a huge influence on my work ethic that I looked forward to the independence of having my own money. So, I took a job at “The Body Shop” clothing store. This job truly fueled the passion that I have for fashion. I absolutely LOVED helping clients and dressing the mannequins and coordinating outfit ensembles.
Advertising
WE’VE HELPED MILLIONS ACROSS THE UNITED STATES GAIN THEIR BUYING POWER BACK. OUR MISSION IS TO HELP ASSIST INDIVIDUALS TO ACHIEVE FINANCIAL FREEDOM
Q: Where are your favorite places to visit in Atlanta and why?
I absolutely LOVE the glitz and glam of Buckhead! I grew up in the small city of Huntsville, AL. I always knew that one day, I would end up in Atlanta. There are so many wonderful elements in the city of Buckhead, from the shopping to great restaurants and hotels. I love to have a nice staycation a couple of times a year in the area and experience all that it has to offer.
Advertising
we aim to bring you the forefront of fashion. With the best care taken into selecting each piece, the goal is to provide the everyday working and social woman the best selections for social gatherings, everyday wear, celebrations, brunch and vacation. Our mission is simple - provide stunning and affordable fashion accessible to clients everywhere!
Q: Three things that we should absolutely know about you?
I am a woman of faith and integrity. I believe in the power of words AFIRM AFIRM AFIRM! I am blessed to be able to do what I love in the corporate and entrepreneur life. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord”. Colossians 3:23
Listening to Spotify. easy. troy sivan. kacey musgraves. mark ronson
FACES BY DIOR
Faces by Dior are the influential Men & Women of Now with relatability factor to confidently propel others with their game changing stories.
They are the Faces of Now with awe inspiring journeys at any age, color and status. They are the frontrunners in championing a profound difference in their professional realm and are strong advocates for the important causes that matter to them most.
Tastemakers
Leaders
Groundbreakers
The Faces by Dior Program was conceptualized and developed by Maryan Aiken in collaboration with Dior Cosmetics Atlanta exclusively on CityBox. Copyright 2019-2021
