Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ashlyn Conway. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Ashlyn , so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
It took me longer to realize that being the one that stands out is a gift from the universe. Uniqueness is something that is hard to come by especially in the times we are currently living in. Putting my utmost confidence, energy, and intentions into anything I do has yet to do me wrong in these circumstances as well as throughout life in general. I find I have the most successful outcomes when putting all the background noise to rest and locking in on my genuine intentions.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Born and raised in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania,
I found myself in 2015 coming out of High School with the intent to share my thoughts and ideas with others- I was not sure how to do so or what that entailed in regards to making a living for myself. I figured Art school would be the place to start with all the creative ideas that were seeping into my brain on the day to day, at that time I was painting daily and selling my art through social media forums to learn how to market and brand myself.
A few years into art school – I had maybe what some would call the “cliche” college dropout story. I got an opportunity from my current boss 3 years back to begin to learn the business of Property Management/Airbnbs/Hospitality Relations/ & Interior Design as well as how these entities can all be intertwined to create something magnificent if you put your heart into it. I took a risk in myself that this was something I could flourish in if I had the opportunity which was right there for me to take.
Fast forward to current life – When my boss told me about the potential project I am now working on ~ 11 suites themed meticulously inside of a former convent that we will be designing and staging as a Boutique Hotel known as “The Chateau”. I felt like I was being handed some form of my dreams in real life. I am now the sole designer on the project that is set to launch Fall 2024.
The Chateau is located in Connellsville PA and consists of 11 unique rooms, each themed/inspired by a different era in time. Blending historical charm and modern luxury. Discover the rich history and future potential of this landmark property as we get ready to launch October 15th 2024 opening The Chateau to the public for an evening to walkthrough and see each suite that can be rented for a one of a kind experience and stay.
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?
Self Motivation, Self Confidence, and Passion would be the top three qualities/skills/areas that were most impactful in my personal journey. I had to believe in myself, my vision, and my intentions to be able to deliver in order to make a memorable impression and long successful career.
I often get praised for the line of work I am in and how fun it must be to be able to design/curate spaces as well as being the primary contact for guests during their stay. However, what people don’t see is the countless of hours I am diving into the world for inspirations, ideas, and experiences that will elevate my way of thinking that can then reflect in my area of work. These experiences, moments, and thought processes are necessary to me in order to be my most successful self.
If I could go back in time and tell my younger self anything it would be to go for it, whatever “it” is. I spent more time than Id like to admit self doubting my abilities, thoughts, ideas, creative passions, trying to deter away from the exact route I am now on. Looking back I wish I would’ve had that confidence and motivation in myself to do it sooner rather than later. Better late than never though (:
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
Atomic Habits by James Clear is a book I have circled back to at least a handful of times now.
The author talks about the power of small habits in creating lasting changes in your life. Unlike generic and repetitive motivational books, this book tells you that real change comes from countless small decisions, not just motivation. This alone resonated with me more ways than one as I tend to find safety in repetition and sometimes had issues of getting out of my comfort zone. This read showed me that certain changes can be positive changes even if it doesn’t seem like it from the start. A considerable emphasis is given to building a system instead of focusing on goals. This read takes you on a journey of self-improvement. Whether it’s the habit loop, 2-minute rule, identity-based approach, habit stacking, or most of the other concepts, they all have a reason why they work.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shlynconway/
Image Credits
Photos shot & edited by Rico Blu – PGH based Photographer – [email protected]
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