“There is no greater thing you can do with your life and your work than follow your passions – in a way that serves the world and you.”
Richard Branson
Wendy Yates is the Creative Director and Founder of Abigail-Elise Design Studio (AE) and Well Fit Human Retreats. Dedicated to positively influencing the wellbeing of others via environmental and social projects, she is bridging the gap between luxury development and humanitarian efforts through the union of both businesses. As a true entrepreneur and creative Wendy puts her daily efforts into adding value to the world of lifestyle design.
Wendy began her professional career with an emphasis on interiors in 2000 and has continued to evolve her creative efforts into a brand that is limitless. With designs that encompass wellness, define non-trends and are forward-thinking her work has been recognized nationally in several publications. Along with her highly capable and experienced team, Wendy combines laid-back luxury with fresh concepts to property, hospitality and homeowners wanting integrative solutions through an organic and spontaneous approach.
the TEAM
Intrapreneurs : in·tra·pre·neurs : intrəprəˈnərs
Noun: an individual who behaves like an entrepreneur while working within a larger organization; seen as an innovative and self-governing asset
We are a team of talented and driven intrapreneurs. Together we are making impactful and positive waves in the world through our expertise in design, development, real estate, customer service, product curation, sustainability and beyond. We are professionals seeking more ways to grow, strategize, influence, and build positive relationships. Our individual talents and perseverance will both exceed your expectations and leave a lasting impression.
Lindsey Stapay
development BROKER
Raised in the Rocky Mountains, Lindsey is well-versed in what makes mountain communities special. After a political campaign & software company, she went to work for a RE Development endeavor to build the 1st LEED Certified Residential Building…300 sold units later, it was clear—real estate was her calling.
Lindsey funneled her expertise in contract negotiating as ED to NWCO Small Business Development Center raising over $8.4 million. Simultaneously, hosting business conferences including the state’s largest business conference for women.
Outside of office hours, she enjoys getting outdoors with her family. Follow her adventures @MountainLivingLindsey
“Those who show up, rule the world.” – Benjamin Franklin
Zelda Elisco
sustainable DESIGNER
With a degree in Environmental Planning from Sonoma State, Zelda brings her passion for sustainability and low-impact design to the team. She uses nature as her main muse to conceptualize her biophilic designs and create minimalistic spaces for people and nature to coexist. As a sustainable designer, she specializes in low-impact materials, renderings, and project concepts. When she is not designing, Zelda works as the founder of Strength Marks, a body-positive photography campaign that aims to ignite honest dialogue about body acceptance.
“Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the assessment that something else is more important than fear.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
Jean Palamer
DIRECTOR of business development
A Southern girl by birth, Jean is passionate about family, travel, people, and being in nature. She met Wendy during one of her trips out west and they immediately hit it off. A deep friendship developed and years later they work side by side in growing AE brands. With a vast amount of experience and knowledge, Jean has helped scale two digital publications. She excels in researching and developing client relationships, identifying collaborative efforts for growth opportunities, and connecting the pieces so that business not only runs smoothly but it expands strategically for long-term success.
“Don’t be afraid to start over. This time you’re not starting from scratch, you’re starting from experience.” – Noella Coursaris
