We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashlye Jones-Dudley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashlye, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My Father is a professional wedding and portrait photographer. While growing up, I saw how he made extra money while doing something that he loves. It inspired me to start a stationary business when I was about 10 years old. I would design a notepad or found cool paper that I would go to an office supply store and have it bound. From there I thought it was a good idea to take my creativity and make extra money. I found by starting my business it was also an avenue for independence. To work a 9-5 not because I had to, but because I want to.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a Senior Business Development Specialist for a global third-party administrator of pre-employment screening services. I have been with my company for 6 years and would say that it has been a pleasure to work for an organization that allows employees to have flexibility with their schedules and promote building in-depth relationships with clients. There is also a skillset that is learned that can be applied to any industry. When I started with the company, I had just came from a sales position at a luxury car dealerahip after 9 years. I was eager to immediately start closing deals. What set me a part is that I wanted to take the skillset and training learned from being in the luxury goods industry and apply to my clients at my current organization. I apply the platinum rule with clients, “Treat others as THEY would like to be treated.” No matter what, a client/customer is choosing to spend their money with you and even when you may mess up, providing a high level of customer service keeps them coming back.

It took time to grow my book of business, but it was worth it. I not only came out with new clients (new revenue), but some friends.
With any corporate job, there is politics and obstacles, but I tend not to get distracted. Working from home definitely helps. I have stayed focused and remind myself that this job is like running my own business. I get out of it what I put into it. If I get distracted, well… no new revenue and lots of should have, could have.

The journey of a growing entrepreneur in corporate america is not an easy one. It takes sacrifice. I am still learning to try and find work-life balance. Trying to take more time for myself. But it is hard. I am not just an employee and entrepreneur.

I am also a wife, mother of 3 young boys, friend, daughter, and sister.
When I figure out how to manage it all effortlessly, I will make sure and share with the world.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My husband is the guru of all things food and activities. I tend to like small and intimate places. However a good turn up never hurts. I dont get out much, but if I do.. it is a great time.

One weekend evening we would go to The Warwick for dinner and drinks and then find a spot, like Cafe 4212 to hear the sultry sounds of a Houston Legend, Marium Echo.

Because I have kids, my friend and I would take them to the Museum of Natural Science or the Children’s Museum. We would likely finish the day at Urban Air or Kangas to work off the rest of their energy.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my Shoutout to my family, especially my Husband, Jason, for allowing me the space to be creative and operate my business. I would also like to Shoutout a few special friends that have supported me in my business. From helping me with producing and shipping, Jessica. For discussions in strategy, Doni, LaKeia, Ashley, Nikki, Wendy. For those that had faith in me and were some of my first projects or orders, and there are so many that I could name. I have been blessed to have a village that has supported me and my business.

Website: Www.EpheysCorner.Etsy.com

Instagram: Www.instagram.com/EpheysCorner

Facebook: Www.Facebook.com/EpheysCorner

Other: TikTok: www.TikTok.com/EpheysCorner

Image Credits
Brandi Ali Photography Fred Agho

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