Thursday, June 7, 2012

Miss Independent- The Byrd Collective

Is it really Thursday already? After a 4-day week last week, I thought for sure this week would drag on! But here we are, and it's whizzing by! And on that note, it's time for another Miss Independent!

Meet Ashley Bailey who runs The Byrd Collective. She styles and designs pretty floral arrangements for fun events! She also hangs with this chick, so you know she's super cool. She was also featured on The Every Girl, which most of us can't brag about! Oh, did I also mention she is from Austin, TX and I love following her on Instagram.



1. What made you decide to start your own business?

I created The Byrd Collective because I was ready to step out on my own.  I have had the honor of working for some amazingly talented people in my career and have also been mentored by some wonderful women who have taught me not to be afraid, like Susan Mason and Natalie Chanin.  I have been in the event industry for almost 20 years focusing mostly on flowers and event design.

2. What was your biggest risk or fear about starting a business?

Not making any money was my biggest fear.

3. How did you know what you wanted to do?

I honestly think that flowers are the most expressive media for me to create art.  My business is a labor of love-I love waking up expecting flowers from California and New York or going to Austin Flower Company to see what little treasures they might have in store that day.

4. What support system do you have for your business to help you stay motivated?

My husband is a tremendous help-he supports me all the way in following my heart and doing what I love.  I have met a great group of girls since moving to Austin who constantly motivate me with their incredible ideas and our frequent collaborations.

5. What is your biggest challenge about running your own business?

Not going over budget.

6. What is the best advice you have for someone wanting to start a business?

Stay true to yourself and your clients will find you.

Simply said! Don't you wish you could work with pretty flowers all day? To learn more about Ashley, you can also follow her here:


Happy Thursday!

9 comments:

Kyla said...

Great feature Jess! I haven't heard of Ashley before but I peeked at her site - such beautiful arrangements!

polypop said...

it's so inspiring. Thank you.
Marta @ What Should I Eat For Breakfast Today?

Melissa Blake said...

Thanks for the awesome interview! :)

Leslie said...

Thanks for sharing the interview with us. :)

Unknown said...

What an awesome inspiration!

dreaming en francais said...

This was a great read! Thanks for sharing! xo

http://dreamingenfrancais.blogspot.com/

Leeann @ Join the Gossip said...

What a cool job! So inspiring!!

Unknown said...

Goodness her flower arrangements are GORGEOUS!! I would love them delivered on every special occasion...make that - weekly :) Super fun interview with a great gal. xo

punkychewster said...

when i was young, i wanted to work at a florist just so i can make flowerl arrangements all day. until i realised i was allergic to pollen. that settled it. :(