Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Ringger.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Ashley. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I received my bachelor’s degree in Political Science and after college I started working right away in local government. I quickly found my way into Public Relations and Government Affairs, but after nearly a decade in the industry, I realized it was time to part ways and go out on my own. I was ready to have more time to devote to my two young girls and excited to create my own future.
Hopeful and nervous, I left a very secure government job and started my own graphic design business. I had taken courses in graphic design in my free time and also provided design services at my job, but it was still quite the leap of faith. I opened an Etsy store, started a website and blog, and slowly began getting referred for more clients as a consultant.
Since then, my business has taken off and I haven’t looked back. I have learned countless new things, been able to utilize my skills from years of work and channel my creativity. I live for the challenge of taking content and bringing it to life in a fresh, modern way as a graphic designer. I am happier and more fulfilled than I could have imagined. I believe that once your passions align with your purpose, your hard work becomes infinitely more productive and your success will skyrocket. I am hoping to keep growing and learning, but it feels wonderful to know I am finally exactly where I am supposed to be.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it has not been a smooth road! My advice to young women is, do not ignore what your gut is saying. Don’t convince yourself you are happy with a job just because it pays well or has a particular title. It is never too late to start over. I am not suggesting you quit your day job right now, but there are ways to plan for change in smart ways. Save money, take night classes, apply for new opportunities. Make a plan! And when the time comes to make a decision or change, you will be ready, and that is when I encourage you to leap.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I am primarily a graphic designer, but I also have extensive experience with public relations, content curating, social media, and writing. I am in a unique position as a designer who can also create and curate content and be an effective writer. When you work with me you are getting a Type A personality that loves order but also taps into the creative, something I have learned to harness to create wonderful things. I am proud to bring a lot of experience to the table and I always go above and beyond for my clients.
As a designer, my speciality is clean, modern design concepts. I love making things look fresh. I have an Etsy store where I showcase art and invitations, but I currently spend most of my time taking on clients in local government, events, and business. This work includes anything from social media graphics, flyers, brochures, event design, reports, logos, and more.
So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
As cliche as it sounds, becoming a mother changed everything for me. I have a strong desire to be present in my daughter’s lives, while also doing work that is fulfilling for me and helps provide for them financially. As a woman, I am used to carrying many tasks and goals at once, so I felt uniquely position to adapt and take on an entrepreneurial spirit. I do not necessarily believe in the concept of ‘having it all’, but I do think you can find a way to make time for the things that are most important to you and make them a priority. For me that is traveling, being a role model for my children, and having quality time as a family.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://ashleyringger.etsy.com/ & https://www.ashleyringger.com/
- Email: hello@ashleyringger.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleyringger/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleyringgerdesign
Image Credit:
Tokyo Photo by https://www.instagram.com/yewkongphotography_japan/; Me sitting with my daughters by https://www.instagram.com/emilyjenksphotography/
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