Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ashley Collins. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ashley, so great to have you with us and thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with the community. So, let’s jump into something that stops so many people from going after their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. We’d love to hear about how you dealt with that and persisted on your path.
I truly believe this is my purpose! I’ve always had a strong internal compass, guided by my “gut-feeling”. This inner calling convinces me that I’m on the right path, which helps me stay focused despite the negativity that might come my way. There’s a quote that really resonates with me: ‘If you weren’t capable, the opportunity would have never come your way.’ This belief reinforces my own resolve, reminding me that I have what it takes to seize the opportunities that are presented to me. Of course, no journey is without its naysayers. People are often resistant to change or something new. But when you’re deeply committed to your own purpose, that ‘outside noise’ becomes minimal. That doesn’t mean I don’t have my moments of doubt—imposter syndrome, creative blocks, and feeling overwhelmed are all part of the journey. However, it’s during these trying times that some of my best ideas have emerged. These challenges serve as a reminder of my capabilities and gifts.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
At the core, I am a Luxury Wedding Planner. My mission statement captures it best: ‘To be the wedding planner, the wedding planner desires.’ This philosophy guides me as I curate each event to not only fulfill the dreams of the couple but to set a standard in the industry. From selecting the perfect venue to the intricate details of the wedding decor, each element is meticulously crafted to make the couple’s special day a true reflection of their love. I’ve earned a reputation for my ‘ChicClassic’ approach, blending chic trends with timeless elegance. This unique style allows me to specialize in a broad range of wedding themes, from the fashionable and contemporary to the classic and enduring. I also extend this distinctive touch to destination and multicultural weddings, each with its own unique requirements and cultural nuances. My brand is all about sophistication, personalization, and love. I work closely with vendors who share my vision, ensuring every aspect of the wedding, from the flowers to the food, aligns perfectly with the couple’s wishes. The result is not just an event, but a deeply moving and memorable experience for everyone involved. There are several exciting developments on the horizon. First, I am thrilled to announce that we’re expanding our team, which will allow us to bring our unique vision to even more couples. Second, we are delving deeper into the realm of destination weddings, curating luxurious experiences in exotic locales. And last but not least, we’re also focusing on multicultural weddings, embracing diverse traditions to create rich, unforgettable celebrations. These expansions not only enrich our portfolio but also enable us to spread love and joy in even more diverse and beautiful ways.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Adaptability: The wedding planning industry is ever-changing, with new trends, technologies, and customer preferences emerging all the time. Being adaptable has allowed me to stay ahead of the curve, offering my clients the latest and best in wedding experiences.
Interpersonal Skills: Building strong relationships with clients, vendors, and my team has been essential. Trust and communication are paramount in delivering a wedding experience that meets, and often exceeds, all expectations.
Eye for Detail: With weddings, the beauty often lies in the small details. Whether it’s the choice of flowers, the arrangement of table settings, or the hue of the lighting, a keen eye for detail ensures that everything comes together in a harmonious, pleasing way.
My Advice for Those Early in Their Journey:
Be a Lifelong Learner: The moment you think you know it all is the moment you’ll start to fall behind. Whether it’s enrolling in a course, attending industry seminars, or even learning from the experiences of each wedding you plan, continuous learning is key.
Network, Network, Network: In this industry, your network can be your net worth. Attend industry events, seek mentorship, and don’t underestimate the value of building strong relationships. It can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
Invest in Self-Care: Burnout is real, especially in a high-stress, detail-oriented industry like wedding planning. Prioritize self-care and work-life balance to keep your creativity and energy levels high.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
Although reading generally feels like a chore for me, there are two books I find myself returning to time and time again because of their profound impact on both my personal and professional life.
The 4:8 Principle by Tommy Newberry: This book has been instrumental in shaping my outlook on both life and work. It emphasizes focusing on what is true, noble, right, and pure. Applying this principle in my role as a Luxury Wedding Planner, I’ve found that maintaining a positive mindset helps me navigate the challenges that inevitably arise. This positive energy, in turn, creates a more harmonious and enjoyable experience for my clients & team.
Atomic Habits by James Clear: This book has honed my approach to continuous improvement. One of its core teachings that has resonated with me is the power of incremental change. For example, after each client consultation, I make it a practice to note down three areas for improvement, thus continually refining my methods. The concept of “habit stacking” has also been a game-changer, enabling me to layer new productive habits onto existing ones, amplifying my efficiency and effectiveness over time
Nuggets of Wisdom:
Positive Mindset: From “The 4:8 Principle,” maintaining a positive outlook not only benefits you but also creates a ripple effect, impacting your team and your clients. Even when things get stressful, a positive mindset often leads to a positive outcome.
Small Changes, Big Results: Inspired by “Atomic Habits,” I’ve learned that you don’t have to make monumental changes to see improvement. It’s often the small, consistent actions that yield the most significant results over time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.avphtx.com/
- Instagram: https://www.avphtx.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/avp.htx
Image Credits
Alicia Yarrish Photography | Erika Geier Photography | Pedigo Photography
