From Dreams to Drafts: How A Reason to Write is Inspiring Storytellers

February 3, 2025

Ellen's passion for writing ignited when she was a young girl, scribbling what she describes as "very bad poetry" about rainbows and butterflies. That early spark evolved into a lifelong love of storytelling, resulting in a successful career as both an author and a teacher. Currently, Ellen is working on her novel, In the Dust of Elephants, and has had several short stories published in esteemed national magazines such as The Saturday Evening Post and Kenyon Review. 

Ellen's entrepreneurial journey began when friends sought her help with their children's college application essays. Recognizing a unique opportunity, she founded Make My Essay Better, a service designed to guide high school seniors in crafting their best stories. Parents could relax and enjoy the finished product while Ellen worked closely with students to help them find their voices. In 2024, the business expanded to include medical and law school applications, offering college students expert guidance in their graduate school essays. Ellen's work with Make My Essay Better, combined with her passion for writing, paved the way for her next venture: A Reason to Write. 

What started as a handmade stationery and invitation business quickly evolved into something much bigger. Ellen discovered the joy of helping others capture their stories and transformed A Reason to Write into a writing workshop and retreat space. Conveniently located just a short drive from Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, the retreat is easily accessible by car, train, or plane, with Dulles and BWI airports and the Harpers Ferry train station nearby. Nestled in the serene woods along the Shenandoah River, the retreat offers a peaceful escape from the noise of daily life, providing both indoor and outdoor spaces to write and revise. Creative energy flows through cozy nooks and inviting corners, fostering an environment perfect for storytelling. 

"Everyone is a storyteller," Ellen says. "We share stories all the time—around the dinner table, at the water cooler, in meetings, even in the checkout line at the grocery store." These everyday moments offer connections that transport us to faraway places, spark nostalgia, and bring magic to our world. Whether it's a cherished childhood book, an unforgettable movie, or a grandparent's tale, stories matter deeply to us all. 

Fostering collaboration between A Reason to Write and the local community is a key priority for Ellen. She believes writing is a journey without wrong turns—only opportunities to improve. "Sharing your stories is one of the best ways to learn and grow," she explains. "This writing community provides a safe, supportive space to do just that." 

A strong writing community helps writers at all levels refine their craft and gain valuable feedback. Ellen envisions more local readings, open mic nights, and book signings to further enrich the literary culture. A Reason to Write also partners with local businesses to extend its impact beyond the writing community. For example, on April 4th, Pour Choices in Charles Town will host a reading and wine tasting featuring author Melissa Scholes Young—a perfect opportunity to connect over storytelling and local flavors. 

Looking ahead, Ellen has ambitious plans for A Reason to Write. Her goal is to provide both established and emerging writers with opportunities to collaborate through workshops and uninterrupted retreat spaces. She is also developing fellowship and scholarship programs to ensure that writers from all backgrounds have the opportunity to create and learn. Down the road, Ellen dreams of launching a literary journal to showcase the incredible work being produced locally. 

Spring is shaping up to be a busy season at A Reason to Write! In addition to the April 4th event, from April 9th to 13th, renowned authors Richard Bausch and Lisa Cupolo will lead a Residential Short Story Workshop. From May 13th to 15th, writers can join the Flash Workshop with Tommy Dean. For those with packed spring schedules, the Residential Flash Workshop with Kathy Fish from October 20th to 24th provides another exciting opportunity. 

Ellen's advice for fellow entrepreneurs? "Running a business involves a lot of tasks that can pull you away from the work you love—accounting, web design, marketing, construction projects, and more. Wherever possible, hire professionals to handle these aspects so you can focus on your expertise," she suggests. Most importantly, “remember your WHY — the reason you started your business in the first place. That will get you through some of the tougher days." 

For the latest updates and events, follow A Reason to Write on Facebook or visit their website.