Today we’d like to introduce you to Alley Leto.
Alley, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was a full-time stay at home mom, raising 3 children for over 8 years. In 2015, I went through a very challenging time. I woke up one day and realized something had to give. I had to make some changes. So, I made a 2016 resolution to start doing things that filled my spirit. I dusted off my camera and started taking pictures again. Which then lead to my social media presence. It was in that moment in 2015 when I knew if I didn’t change my mind set nothing would change. That decision to rewrite my story was THE BEST decision I have ever made. It’s been a slow process but every day I get to write MY own story. NOT the story others want. I am in love with the life I live now. It has its challenges (just like anyone else) but shifting my mindset has made all the difference in how I approach life and situations that are challenging.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road. And truthfully, I was the kind of woman that always felt like I had it all figured it. Until one day, I realized that the only things I CAN CONTROL are my own my choices and the way I live my life.
My advice to other women is this, you will be bombarded with so much “noise” around you. It’s important you don’t lose yourself in unrealistic expectations and ideas of how you should be.
You were uniquely created and there is incredible value in that. Only one of YOU that makes you a beautiful treasure.
Would also share that life circumstances don’t define you. You have the POWER to change the course of your story. Stay strong and hold onto hope like its going out of style, always!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Life of Alley – what should we know?
I am so proud of myself for growing from a terrible chapter in my life. I really thought that was going to be the way my story ended and that there was no way it could change. BUT it did.
I started back up with my photography and I had a local business reach out to see if I would manage their social media. From there, it grew into several other businesses that liked my work and I was able to work with them. I also started a blog and have worked with some incredible national brands for my own personal social media, Life of Alley.
I feel what sets me apart from others is that I am ME. There is no one else like me. I don’t look at what anyone else is doing. My story is a story that will give hope to many women and allow them to see that no matter your situation you are capable to change it all around. I also have true compassion and care for others. I genuinely want to see other women succeed, be happy and live a life with joy in their hearts. That is the reason why I do what I do. I don’t do it for free products, paid sponsorships etc.. That does not drive my heart. My heart is driven by making a change in peoples hearts.
What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman just starting her career?
Your perspective, your opinions, YOUR VOICE is valuable. Remain professional in all your interactions and to never lose sight of your goals. Always believe in yourself. I also feel as a young woman its critical to surround yourself with others that inspire you, that push you to be better and to do better. I feel a circle of solid support is helpful for a person’s growth and success. It’s ok to be selective about who you allow into your circle.
Also, embrace who YOU are. You are uniquely YOU!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lifeofalley.com
- Email: alley@lifeofalley.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifeofalley
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/lifeofalley1
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/lifeofalley
Image Credit:
Life of Alley
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