We recently had the chance to connect with Ashley Miles and have shared our conversation below.
Ashley, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is a normal day like for you right now?
Honestly, I’m not even sure what “normal” looks like anymore—in the best way possible! Since Coco’s Tee Boutique has really taken off, my days are a blend of structure and hustle. I still work full-time as an Administrative Manager, which takes up most of my day. But once I clock out, it’s time to put on my boutique owner hat. Evenings and weekends are dedicated to all things Coco’s—packaging orders, making post office runs, scheduling content for social media, and responding to customer emails. I recently opened a booth at Painted Tree Boutiques in Ballwin, MO, so I’m often there too, making sure everything looks great and stays stocked. It’s a lot, but I’ve learned how to create balance between both worlds—and I genuinely love the pace.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m Ashley Miles—mom, wife, full-time Administrative Manager, and the proud owner of Coco’s Tee Boutique. What started as a creative hobby in January 2024 has grown into a thriving online women’s clothing boutique that celebrates confidence, femininity, and style at every size. Coco’s is all about empowering women through fashion, whether it’s comfy everyday wear, statement pieces, or size-inclusive styles that actually flatter and fit.
What makes Coco’s unique is our mix of bold, trendy, and body-positive fashion—backed by a boutique experience that’s personal and fun. I hand-pick or personally sample many of the items we carry, ensuring quality and style go hand in hand. We recently expanded from online to having a physical presence at Painted Tree Boutiques in Ballwin, MO, which has allowed me to connect with customers in person and bring the Coco’s vibe to life.
I’m currently working on expanding our product lines—including nighttime essentials and a pajama collection—and building more community through our pop-ups, social media, and influencer collaborations. Coco’s isn’t just about clothes—it’s about creating a space where women feel seen, stylish, and celebrated.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that’s shaped me the most is the one I have with my daughter. I had her when I was just 16, so I had to grow up quickly and take on responsibilities most teenagers never imagine. Becoming a mom at such a young age didn’t break me—it made me. I got pregnant at 15, dropped out of high school, and was a single mom, but I refused to let that define my future. I earned my GED, went to college, and worked my way up in the corporate world.
Motherhood taught me resilience, leadership, and strength. It’s the reason I push forward and show up as the best version of myself, both in my career and in my business. I’m proud to be raising a strong, confident, independent young woman—and in many ways, she’s the reason I am who I am today.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: Life does get easier, even if it doesn’t always feel that way. There will be struggles, no doubt—but every struggle is a lesson. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, because those mistakes will shape you. Learn from them, grow through them, and most importantly, use them to help others. That’s the most rewarding part—turning your past into someone else’s survival guide.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
One belief I’m deeply committed to—no matter how long it takes—is empowering women. I believe in women’s rights, in making space for women to feel confident, seen, and celebrated. Whether it’s through my boutique, my leadership role at work, or just how I show up in the world—I want women to know they are capable, powerful, and deserving of everything good. Coco’s Tee Boutique is built on that foundation: fashion that fits and flatters every body, and a brand that uplifts women every step of the way.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when everything—and everyone—is taken care of. When the house is clean, the bills are paid, the bellies are full, all the boutique orders are shipped, emails have been answered, and the social media posts are scheduled… that’s when I can finally take a deep breath. It’s in those quiet, accomplished moments that I feel the most grounded and at peace—knowing I’ve handled my responsibilities and poured into both my family and my business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cocosteeboutique.com
- Instagram: @cocos.tee.boutique
- Facebook: Coco’s Tee Boutique
