We’re looking forward to introducing you to Esther Ruth Ellard. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Esther Ruth, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I start my day with health – physical, spiritual, relational – first. I always start my day with a strength training session to get me mind focused and engaged for the day. Following my workout, my husband and I cook breakfast together and enjoy the quiet start to the morning before going on a 20 minute walk together. After our walk, I will spend time in the Bible and pray to really re align myself and make sure I have spent my time doing the most important things. This gives me time to have God speak to me while also sharing my heart and praying for those in my family and business circles.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Esther Ellard, founder and lead designer of Effortless Designs, a boutique full-service interior design studio based in Northeast Georgia. We specialize in crafting timeless, family-centered interiors that feel as beautiful as they are livable. My goal is to design homes that don’t just look great in photos—but actually make everyday life easier, calmer, and more connected.
What makes our studio unique is our intentionally personal approach. We take on a limited number of projects at a time so that every client gets thoughtful, high touch experience from start to finish. Whether we’re collaborating on a new build or refreshing a beloved space, we focus on durable materials, classic pieces, and a clean-lined aesthetic that grows gracefully with your family. I like to say that we balance classic design with modern comfort.
I started Effortless Designs to keep the design process simple and straightforward for my clients so they can get a home that is tailored for their needs without the overwhelm of a million design decisions. I’m continually inspired by the families we serve and the stories we help bring to life through design.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My parents taught me the most about work both in action and in spirit. Growing up, I watched my dad work tirelessly to provide for our family, while my mom made countless small sacrifices to make every day feel special. They raised me in church, where I learned the importance of integrity, follow-through, and putting God at the center of everything.
Their example shaped how I approach both life and business. They taught me that success isn’t about shortcuts but it’s about consistency, honesty, and showing up fully for whatever you’ve committed to. That foundation is the heartbeat of how I serve my clients today.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to try sooner. I spent a lot of time second-guessing myself waiting until I felt “ready” or fully confident before stepping out. It wasn’t until late in high school that I really started pushing past that fear and giving myself permission to try new things without being afraid to fail.
Looking back, I can see that confidence doesn’t come before action, it comes because of action. Once I started showing up and just going for it, I experienced the most personal and professional growth. I’d remind my younger self that it’s okay to be unsure—and that trying is the bravest and kindest thing you can do for yourself and for others.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
I think a lot of smart people are getting it wrong when they put career or money above family and faith. I’ve seen—and still see—people chasing the next big title, investment, or opportunity, hoping it will bring fulfillment. But if you reach the top and there’s no one beside you, was it really worth it?
To me, true success is having the people you love right there with you. I’m incredibly fortunate to have the daily support of my wonderful husband, my mom, my five amazing sisters, and my in-laws. That foundation gives me the courage to grow a business that reflects my values, not just my ambition.
I won’t compromise relationships for success, because I believe contentment is the true measure of a life well-lived. There’s a balance between striving and settling—and sometimes, striving means investing deeper into your relationships, not into the next big thing.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
If I retired tomorrow, I hope what my clients would miss most is the testimony I leave behind. For me, design is more than just creating beautiful spaces, it’s about building meaningful relationships and serving others through the gifts God has given me.
My faith is at the core of everything I do, and I strive to be a reflection of Christ in how I work, communicate, and care for each client. Whether it’s through a major renovation or a simple conversation during the process, I hope I bring light into people’s lives. At the end of the day, that’s what matters most and what I’d want to be remembered for.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/effortlessdesigns8
- Website: effortlessdesigns.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/effortlessdesigns8?igsh=MW54YTF5N2pubWxsZQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Image Credits
Rustic White Interiors
