Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Hornsby
Hi Ashley, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
After working for my dad for 20 years, at 43 years old, I knew I wanted to try my own thing, and it felt like that now or never moment for me. Throughout my career, I have always worked in fields focused on kids. My dad owns a toy company, and I also started my own photography business, where I photographed children and families. So it made sense for me to stay on the path of focusing on what I care most about…kids! I also have a house full of tweens and teens, so I know the struggle of shopping for my kids, and there are just not many options out there. I started off thinking I wanted to just do online, but as I was getting space ready, it felt like the right move to make it an instore shopping experience. This all started just last December, opened my doors March 30th and it’s been building steadily since then. My location is a little bit off the beaten path, so I was blessed with the opportunity to move spaces, and I’ll be getting the keys to my new shop August 1st!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There has definitely been a huge learning curve for me. I’ve never owned my own business and never worked retail, although working for my dad, I know the other end of the business: getting products ready to show and sell to retailers. Then all the shopping that I quickly learned I was supposed to be doing many months previously. It was a lot of playing catch up and feeling like I was constantly chasing my tail. Then sprinkle in a little bit of mom guilt because I’m working so much more now than ever. It hasn’t been easy, but I’m slowly learning how to balance everything a little bit more and I’m so grateful to have a great support system helping me along the way.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I often get asked why I chose the name “Ellie Viv.” It’s the namesake of my daughter, Ellie Vivienne.
Ellie Viv is a boutique for tween girls, but I’m expanding into junior and small women’s sizing to accommodate different growth spurts and I want to have an offering for teens as well. When I’m shopping for the girls, I’m shopping through my mom lens. I try to find things that the girls will love but that mom will also approve of. I’m proud to offer a variety of price points. I try to have something for everyone. It’s fun to shop and have that boutique experience but not break the bank.
Another thing that I’m extremely proud of is that Ellie Viv will be hosting the “eVerbody for Kindness” Walk on October 6th in Queeny Park. October is National Bullying Prevention Month, and what better way to kick off the month than by getting a group of people together to celebrate Kindness and help spread awareness of bullying prevention? We’re teaming up with the Megan Meier Foundation as our charity. More details will come as it’s still in the planning phase, but it will be a fun event for the family! Mark your calendar for October 6th. We’ll have food trucks, bubbles, a DJ and more!
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Fashion is ever-evolving, so I’m sure it will constantly change as trends change yearly.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ellieviv.com
- Instagram: @shopellieviv
- Facebook: /EllieViv
