We had the good fortune of connecting with Chris Adams and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chris, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I really had a great career with The Ritz-Carlton, but couldn’t get past the feeling of wanting more. So often I would feel like the black sheep with my ‘out of the box’ ideas or simply wanting to push the envelope. Taking the risk and believing in that process seemed like the only option I had.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Ellis Adams Group is a lifestyle / luxury firm focused primarily on the hospitality industry. Our team handles everything from concept development and branding, to design, and operational execution. The team we have established truly makes us stand out from the rest. Not only are their skill sets some of the best in the industry, but the culture we live on a day-to-day basis at EAG set us apart. It definitely has not been easy, but in the words of one of my mentors, “easy never changed the world.” Our team is constantly pushing the boundaries without fear of failure. There is a line we often say to ourselves when searching for the right answer in a tough situation, “just do the right thing, even if it costs us money, just do the right thing.”

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
You really have to think about the options and diversity that LA offers. Probably start on the west side to experience Malibu, Venice, and Santa Monica, walking through the Promenade and popping into Pasjoli for dinner. Moving into Beverly Hills and West Hollywood where you have to experience Rodeo Drive, then an amazing evening in Hollywood at one of so many amazing restaurants, then finish off the evening at one of HWood Group’s nightlife venues like Delilah. Close out the trip in Downtown LA, hitting Denae’s Diner for breakfast, K town for lunch, and the Arts District at night. And let’s be honest, pending on the time of year, squeezing in a Lakers or Dodgers game is always a win.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Well, I couldn’t agree more, but not sure I could give you one single person. My father played a huge roll in understanding the path I was embarking on, but both of my parents instilled at an early age the confidence and belief I could do anything. If you are told that long enough, you start to believe it. Beyond that, I have had mentors from day one, but I would be remiss to not give credit to my daughters; they pushed me every single day to want to give them the best life possible. I also must give credit to my other half for helping me become the best version of myself.

Website: https://www.ellisadamsgroup.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellisadamsofficial

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ellis-adams-group-inc/

Image Credits
Photo Fusion Media; Gabriel Roth

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.