The hand-painted designs of Del Ray-based Ella Bella will soon be in the hands of people from around Virginia attending Gov.-elect Abigail Spanberger’s inauguration market.
Ella Bella Flourish Fearlessly is one of two businesses from the D.C. area invited to participate in the Made in Virginia Market in Richmond on Friday, along with Occoquan’s Hello Jackson Home Fragrance Co. Spanberger will make remarks at the market to kick off a weekend of inauguration festivities.
“Being selected to participate in the Made in Virginia Market during inauguration weekend is a genuine honor,” business owner Katie Waynick told ALXnow. “It feels especially meaningful to represent Alexandria during such a historic moment for the Commonwealth.”
Ella Bella started as an idea for Waynick to create a baby blanket for her daughter. Waynick, a past president of the Del Ray Citizens Association, began experimenting with digital pattern designs of her own original watercolor artwork.
After painting the designs, Waynick digitizes the artwork and works with partners to transfer those designs onto physical products.
“Today, I work with a small group of trusted, small-batch manufacturers to produce home goods and accessories featuring those original designs—everything from tea towels, table runners, blankets, and stationery to glass tumblers, silk scarves, and vegan leather bags,” Waynick said.
Ella Bella got to be part of Spanberger’s Made in Virginia Market after Waynick completed an application process by the governor-elect’s inauguration committee.
“The timeline was a quick turnaround,” Waynick said. “I had no idea whether I would be selected, so being included alongside so many talented Virginia makers during inauguration weekend is something I’m truly grateful for.”
Waynick made connections around the city through her work with the DRCA and DrainALX, and today, community support contributes to Ella Bella’s homegrown success. Waynick said she wasn’t sure how her business idea would pan out long-term, but her business connections have provided plenty of support, from offering boutiques for pop-ups to helpful tips and feedback.
Ella Bella’s products have been featured at locations like Del Ray Farmhouse, MadeinALX and Gustave Boulangerie’s Second Saturday markets. Waynick has also participated in Art on the Avenue, the massive art festival that first drew her to move to Del Ray.
“It’s been a dream come true, truly,” Waynick said. “But most of all, meeting people and seeing the joy my art brings has been the most meaningful part of this journey — and it wouldn’t have happened without the community that is Alexandria.”
