Her Story
About Erika
Erika Milbratz is the Principal of Mrs. Adelaide at Home, a Chicago area based venture that combines home decor retail with community building. The business introduced its website at the end of July 2025, establishing its public presence and its commitment to creating meaningful connections through the products and experiences it offers. Milbratz holds a bachelor's degree in history from New York University and a master's degree in education from Pepperdine University. She credits her success in business to the qualities which make for a wonderful host: considering and putting others first, follow your passions before mastering every technical detail, and to treat failure as a chance to grow. But, perhaps most importantly, embracing creativity and connecting with people each and every day helps provide a sense of balance and happiness to our lives.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Erika
01What do you attribute your success to?
Success sometimes is not as linear as we anitcipate. Creating community through the scope of our homes and finding ways we can positivly interact and engage with one another is probably as strong an indicator of success as we can have. The harder to quantify but easier to relay the sense of connection is probably our best measurement. Not by earnings but by individuals drawn outside their comfort zone and reaching out to friends and family, as best they can, to create and build value in their hospitality.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is not to be afraid of failure. Failure is a natural part of the process, and you may fail many times before you succeed. Each failure offers an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve. Instead of being nervous about making mistakes, I have learned to jump in, take chances, and enjoy the journey.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Pay attention to the things you continually feel drawn toward. If there is something you genuinely love or an idea you feel strongly about, pursue it. Don't let a lack of technical knowledge hold you back, because those skills can be learned, and there are people and resources available to help. Your passion, creativity, and genuine interest can carry you through the practical details along the way.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One challenge I am currently considering is the changing landscape of retail, particularly whether opening a traditional brick-and-mortar location is the right direction for the future. Having a physical retail space is something I would love to pursue, but I recognize that consumer habits and traditional retail models continue to evolve. This has encouraged me to consider different markets and explore alternative opportunities for growth.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Kindness, generosity, graciousness, and consideration for others are at the heart of both my personal and professional life. I believe these values should remain consistent regardless of the setting. Whether I am hosting an event, running a business, serving a customer, or interacting with someone personally, it is important to think of others and look for opportunities to make a positive difference.
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