Ellen Johnson, the owner of Chrisalin Upscale Estate Sales, began collecting antiques and other treasures right after college. About 25 years ago, she turned her passion for collecting into a business, doing small sales for friends and family. In 1995, she started Chrisalin and has been doing sales for clients for more than 22 years. Years of sales know-how and extensive travel have given her the ability to easily identify valuable items and price them appropriately. In addition, Ellen has more than 30 years of marketing and advertising experience, having served as the CEO for two marketing firms. Chrisalin is the only estate sale company in the Twin Cities that is owned and managed by an M.B.A. in marketing.
Ellen not only manages estate sales, she also volunteers for a number of Twin Cities charities. She donates her time and expertise to help with auctions, rummage sales and other fundraising events. Ellen co-chaired the North Oaks Guild II Rummage Sale for four years. This sale grosses $160,000 for Children’s Hospitals of St. Paul and Minneapolis. Ellen believes that it is important to give back to her community.
Ellen’s husband, Neal, is her “right hand man” for sales. Neal has had a distinguished career in both law enforcement and construction. Now retired, Neal manages lawn, garden, tools and other technical items which a client wishes to sell.
Chrisalin has assembled a support staff of highly skilled and experienced people with outstanding customer service skills and personal integrity. Their expertise and experience allow Chrisalin to successfully manage a sale of any size and scope.