Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Argaez.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Ashley. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ve always been an artist by nature. Whether it was making jewelry at a young age, becoming president of the Art Club in high school, or even taking drawing classes in college… art is in my blood. I see things in shapes, colors, and textures. After five years as a Registered Dental Hygienist, I reignited my love for all things creative and artsy when I decided to plan and design my own wedding back in May of 2019. Shortly thereafter, I started my floral design business, Reed and Rye, and the creative spirit in me was awakened once again! I have recently launched my online Etsy shop (ReedandRye), featuring my Forever Bouquets and Arrangements.
My creations contain long-lasting dried and preserved ingredients, as well as silk florals. Whether it’s an accent piece for your home, a gift for a friend, or customizing your perfect wedding day florals and arrangements, knowing that my work brings joy to others is really the fuel that ignites my creativity. I especially love working with brides who know that once their special day is over, they get to keep their bouquet for YEARS to come. How cool is that?! I am humbled by the amount of support and interest I have received already and am having SO much fun walking in the gifts that God intended for me to walk in.
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?
There are always hurdles to jump over and obstacles to get through when someone follows their passions and dreams. This is especially true when starting out. I would be lying if I said I didn’t have a great deal of doubts when my journey first began. There was a fear of the unknown, concern over a lack of financial resources, not knowing where I would find the extra time since I was already working another job, and realizing this was an industry I knew nothing about! With a background in dental hygiene, I had no clue how to start and own this kind of business.
Through all of my years of schooling, however, one thing I have come to realize about myself is that I love learning new things. The past eight months have been filled with researching the ins and outs of business ownership, effective marketing techniques, and all things floral. If there is one thing I don’t fear, it’s failure itself. I believe very strongly that mistakes are not failure, but merely a learning opportunity to grow and develop both personally and as a business owner. I feel that this has set me apart.
My advice for young women starting their own business would be to understand that doubts and fears will naturally present themselves, but don’t let that stop you from believing in your passions. Also, always be open to doing your research. Anyone can learn. Just be willing to put in the time upfront and don’t be afraid to ask those who inspire your questions. They, too, were once in your shoes. I promise the reward is sweet!
Please tell us about Reed and Rye.
When I first got started in the floral business, my heart was set on doing full-scale weddings. I knew very early on that my niche would be a blend of bohemian and modern styles. I love the boho element of dried foliage mixed with the modern element of fresh flowers. I consider myself a floral artist and have been known to use non-traditional elements in my designs like spray paint, dried floral pieces, and faux floral stems. All of my creations are custom designed with the bride in mind. If there are certain accent pieces or colors she’s wanting, I help make it happen. I want each bride to feel that her bouquet and arrangements are unique to only her, making her big day that much more meaningful.
I’ve recently ventured into a new and exciting territory of flowering and specialize in dried and preserved floral pieces called Forever Bouquets and Arrangements. They consist of a mix of dried foliage and silk floral stems. The best part is they last for years to come! They’re super fun and special… and have already become such a big hit! The typical bride spends, on average, anywhere between $150 to $350 for her wedding bouquet which, sadly, doesn’t last very long. I’ve come up with options for brides to purchase bouquets that will last a long, long time. Whether it be an all dried bouquet or a silk floral bouquet, they will stay in great shape and serve as a wonderful memory of their beautiful day. Aside from bridal creations, I also create Forever Arrangements which can be used for home or workplace decor and bouquets for birthday or graduation gifts.
I take pride in bringing joy through my creations. I pour my heart into each piece and I know that my clients will adore the fact that my work will last for years and years.
Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
The industry I’m in is highly saturated with female leaders, and I’m honored to be among the other #BossBabes turning their dreams into reality. However, I believe one of the biggest barriers when it comes to female leadership, in general, is the gender bias and stereotyping of females in the workplace.
There are certain mindsets people hold, whether conscious or subconscious, that cause them to believe that gender differences between men and women make them more effective in different roles. What has helped me in dealing with personal experiences in this area has been my faith and trust in who God says I am. I would encourage others to walk confidently in who God says you are too: worthy, called, and lacking nothing.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.etsy.com/shop/ReedandRye
- Phone: 6196305171
- Email: inforeedandrye@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/reed_and_rye
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/reedandrye
Image Credit:
Andre Argaez
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