Born in New Iberia, Louisiana, best known for Tabasco Hot sauce and Cajun cooking, Ellie’s roots in Southern cuisine were born in her Mawmaw’s kitchen. Moving to Oaxaca, Mexico as a child, her family’s work in disaster relief and feeding programs instilled a passion for cooking from the heart and providing meals for those in need. Immersed in vibrant spices and fresh ingredients at local markets, Ellie’s culinary journey began, fueling a lifelong love for food. Starting in classical French restaurants her eye for detail and standard of excellence was established. In 2009 she transitioned to the film industry before embarking on a career as a private chef for celebrities and high-profile clients.
Amidst the pandemic, Ellie relocated to Roanoke, Virginia, where she joined TerraBella Senior Living as an Area Director of Culinary Services prior to her promotion to Divisional Director of Culinary Services. Ellie’s journey into senior living has allowed her to combine her culinary talent with a passion for caring for others, and she aims to challenge stigmas and push the boundaries from what is expected to what is possible.
Ellie lives in the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains with her Daughter Elia Grey, they together excel in Martial Arts and love traveling to explore new places and, of course, eating along the way.