How Ella Mae Evangelista Found Success Through Live Selling
“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”
– Arthur Ashe
In a time marked by challenges, Ella Mae Evangelista turned hardship into opportunity. What started as a necessity during the pandemic has grown into a thriving live-selling business. Her inspiring story is one of persistence, adaptability, and passion, illustrating how the right mindset can turn even the bleakest circumstances into stepping stones for success.
A Humble Beginning
Before becoming a live-selling sensation, Ella Mae worked as an intern in an engineering firm. Though she gained experience as an accounting specialist, the role offered little stability. Life had never been easy for Ella Mae, especially in terms of finances. As a former working student, she juggled school and part-time jobs to help make ends meet. Her internship, which became her last corporate job, made her realize that it wasn’t enough to meet her and her mother’s needs.
When the pandemic struck, Ella Mae found herself at a crossroads. The weight of “kahirapan” bore heavily on her, with reduced work hours and no other source of income to support herself and her mother. It was this pressing hardship that pushed her to try live selling—not out of ambition, but sheer survival.
What started as a desperate attempt to provide for her loved ones became the seed of something far greater. But this time, she chose to embrace live selling, a growing trend that offered the chance to connect directly with customers. Though the path was unfamiliar, she was determined to make it work.
The Leap Into Live Selling
Ella Mae’s journey into live selling was far from seamless. Coming from an accounting background, she had no prior experience in sales, let alone hosting live sessions. The early days were a mix of trial and error, with small audiences and sporadic sales. Yet, she persisted, leaning into her love for shoes, which became the cornerstone of her brand.
To stand out, Ella Mae incorporated engaging elements into her live sessions, such as games and giveaways, creating a sense of community among her viewers. Her efforts paid off, as word spread about her vibrant personality and quality products. Soon, her viewership swelled—sometimes reaching thousands—and her sales skyrocketed.
Building a Brand
What started as a simple live-selling venture quickly grew into a full-fledged business. Ella Mae’s consistency and creativity helped her build a loyal customer base, and her dedication to customer engagement set her apart in a competitive market. Suppliers began approaching her directly, offering better deals and a wider range of products. This shift allowed her to diversify her inventory and streamline operations.
Her business success also enabled her to branch out into other ventures. Today, she invests in real estate, managing rental properties and exploring opportunities to develop dormitories and apartments.
“Live selling is the backbone of my business, but it has also opened doors to other opportunities,” she shares.
Lessons in Resilience
Ella Mae’s entrepreneurial journey was not without setbacks. Early on, she faced days of no sales and the challenge of building trust with an unfamiliar audience. However, she credits her success to consistency and a strong belief in her vision. “You have to stay committed, even when it feels like progress is slow. Consistency will always pay off,” she advises.
For those looking to start their own business, Ella Mae emphasizes the importance of passion. “Choose a product or service you genuinely love. When you’re passionate, it’s easier to stay motivated, even during tough times,” she explains.
A Vision for the Future
As her business continues to thrive, Ella Mae has ambitious plans for the future. She aims to expand her real estate portfolio, with dreams of developing resorts and rental properties in the provinces. “I want to create something lasting—something that provides stability for my family and inspires others to dream big,” she says.
An Inspiring Legacy
Ella Mae describes her journey as a “rollercoaster,” filled with highs and lows. Yet, it is her ability to adapt and persevere that defines her success. Her story is a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and a willingness to take risks.
Through live selling, Ella Mae found not just a means to survive but a platform to thrive. Her journey reminds us that, with determination and ingenuity, even the most challenging times can lead to extraordinary opportunities.
