BOSS Spotlight: Meet The "Life-Style Connoisseur" Ashley Austin

By
Ashley Austin, M.S., is a writer, stylist, and media maven with an entrepreneurial spirit. Working in advertising with her passions for food, fashion, DIY, and all things glam. When she’s not on the clock Ashley enjoys traveling, reading and discovering new trends. Catch up with Ashley at UptownBelle.com. 
TheBOSSNetowrk: What were some obstacles that you faced in the beginning process of starting your business or career?
AA: Believing that I had to be a master at everything. I soon realized that this was impossible and started to vet professionals that were a good fit for me and my business. Outsourcing professionals like hiring a lawyer, accountant, and a graphic designer helped me save more time and money in the long run. It also relieved some stress and allowed me to focus on the areas that I was great at writing and styling.

BN: What inspired you to break into your particular industry?
AA: I love being a resource for women. There seemed to be a limited urban perspective online for lifestyle content that I was interested in. Many of my friends would ask me for DIY, style, and beauty tips. Since I have always had a love for fashion, writing, and photography I thought what better way than to launch my blog. Uptown Belle has allowed me to be a resource to women who are looking for one place to get there Lifestyle content. Styling developed pretty naturally as well with cleaning out my girlfriends closets, shopping for them, etc. I loved seeing the look on their faces when they would be happy with the results.

BN: How do you balance your personal and professional life or have you been able to find a balance?
AA: I don’t as it is tough in the beginning stages when you are building your business. To make my dream a reality I knew I would have to sacrifice my time, money, going out with friends, etc. With this in mind I try to plan and prioritize my schedule so that I can dedicate my time to a particular task while I am in the moment. So if I am working on a blog post or styling a client my attention is 100% dedicated to that post or that client. If I am having a night out with my friends I am 100% focused on spending time and living in the moment with them.

BN: What is an inspirational quote that you live by?
AA: “Don’t downgrade your dream just to fit your reality. Upgrade your conviction to match your destiny.” –Stuart Scott It is important that when you look back on your life you can say that you have at least tried to live your life’s dream and purpose. As women I think we sometimes have a tendency to minimize our dreams out of fear or uncertainty. When we really should be pushing ourselves to go beyond the imaginary limits that we have set in place.

BN: Who were some influential people or mentors that helped or encouraged you along the way?
AA: My husband Ray Austin has been very instrumental and supportive through my entrepreneurial journey. Also, owner of Standout Style Boutique and Coach Tamika Price was very influential in me deciding to pursue my passion sooner than later. Dr. Shante Bishop has a very inspirational “Branding for Believers” podcast that keeps me grounded and focused during those tough days.

BN: What are your "must-haves" to keep your career or business going strong?
AA: Besides my laptop and phone I would say the Hootsuite app helps me manage my social media content and the Xero app keeps my finances in order while I am on the go.

BN: What is your definition of a BOSS?
AA: An innovative leader who is constantly ahead of the curve, takes risks, and creates opportunities.


Be sure to follow Ashley Austin on Twitter @TheUptownBelle and Instagram @TheUptownBelle and check out her products and services at http://www.uptownbelle.com/



Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

50 BOSS Members To Follow On Twitter

By
Image
March is officially “Women’s History Month” and it seemed only right to highlight some amazing women who represent leadership, and support the BOSS mission.  This list is compiled of women who I respect for taking 100% responsibility for their destiny and striving to be change agents for the next generation of young women.  We salute them and you should too… just follow them on Twitter to be a part of the greatness.  You can also follow me @MsCityGlobal and let’s continue to make history one BOSS at a time. @aliahPR Aliah Davis,  Founder of PR-Diva.com and Aliah PR http://www.aliahpr.com @AnikaKai Anika Jackson, Founder of AnikaKai Events http://www.anikakaievents.com @authenticnoise Antoinette Arnold, Authentic Noise PR agency http://www.authenticnoise.com @SmBizFinance Antonina Geer, Founder and CEO of Simplistic Financials, LLC.  http://www.simplisticfinancials.com @artdeal Artiatesia Deal, Creative Principal at ArtDeal Designs http://www.artiatesiadeal.com @artieka
Read more

BOSS & Sage Announce 2024 Invest in Progress Grant Winners

By
Image
We’re excited to announce the recipients of the 2024 Invest in Progress Grant, a collaborative initiative by Sage and The BOSS Network . This partnership has seen Sage commit funding over three years to empower small businesses with the resources they need to thrive. The selected recipients stand out for their dedication to community, entrepreneurial spirit, and a desire to grow their professional skills.  Each will be awarded a $10,000 grant and gain access to a year-long monthly mentorship program through BOSS Business University. This online platform is designed to provide the tools and knowledge necessary to successfully launch or grow a business. The partnership, in its third year, received almost 12,000 applicants nationwide. This year’s winners also feature four members from each of the Divine Nine sororities—including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated; Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated; Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated—the National Pan-Hellenic Council, Incorp
Read more

Empowering Black Women Founders: A Call to Action for Public and Private Sectors by The BOSS Network

By
Image
In recognition of National Women's Small Business Month, we find ourselves at a critical juncture where our actions can make a profound impact on the lives and aspirations of Black women founders in Atlanta. The BOSS Network is proud to unveil its new research report in partnership with Sage, "Voices of Strength: Pathways to Success for Black Women Founders." This research sheds light on the unique challenges these entrepreneurs face. While we celebrate their remarkable resilience and passion, it is imperative that we step forward to provide the support they urgently need.  Access to Capital, Digitalization, and Mentorship Challenges The report's findings reveal a stark reality: despite being the fastest-growing community of successful entrepreneurs in the US, only five percent of surveyed Black women founders in Atlanta have secured funding through business loans or venture capital funds. Additionally, only 20% are familiar with the process of applying for and recei
Read more