Meet Trailblazer Lauren Ashley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Ashley.

Lauren has always had an appreciation for well-thought-out interiors and event planning. She attended the Art Institute of Houston where she earned her Bachelors Degree in Fine Arts in Interior Design.

During her time at the Art Institute, she interned for an event planner where she discovered a new passion, weddings. She loved working with couples to bring their vision to life. Through her strategic approach to weddings, Lauren curates intentional, thoughtful and memorable interiors that allow her clients to be surrounded by what they love most. After endless research and vendor meetings, scheduling, and setup, event day is what she lives for!

Lauren’s passion and love for design prompted her to create LA Weddings & Interiors with a small design team who helps turn our clients dreams into reality. Let’s create design magic together!

No one would hire me!!! I have a degree in Interior Design from The Art Institute of Houston! I’ve been employed with my current job for nine years no gaps. People I’m not the average millennial. I’ve held that same job, worked a part-time job, and went to school full time!! So, after applying and not getting anywhere, I talked with my dad because I needed answers. Was it me? Was I doing something wrong? Why am I not getting the calls? My dad answer was simple. Start your own business! If you love planning events and Interior design start today. I didn’t say anything. He said what’s the name of your company and I said LA Weddings & Interiors! That’s how I got started.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Ha, of course, the road hasn’t been smooth. Honestly, it’s a daily struggle! Especially with social media painting a picture that entrepreneurship is a piece of cake. It’s not! It takes serious motivation and determination to push through. My personal biggest struggle has been learning the business finances. Learning what is mine to keep (paycheck) and what belongs to the business (profit). I’ve taken a class, I’ve talked to my CPA’s, and now I have a day called Admin Mondays. On this day, I take no client appointments, but make it a point to update my quickbooks, file receipts, and update client’s portals. Strictly doing all that needs to be done to run an efficient business. This is the not fun part of having a business, BUT the must do/know to keep your business running. My advice for other woman just starting their journey, just go for it. It may sound simple, but no two stories are the same. Yes, you and 1000 people may do the same thing, but not like how you do it. We all are our own magic behind our craft! Learn what needs to be learned for you to succeed. Do things that aren’t so fun, but are require. In the end, it will all work out.

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I’m a wedding planner & Interior designer. I’m crazy enough to do both! I’m often asked why not just one? First, I can! Second, I love doing both. This is what sets me apart from others in my field. I want returning clients. I have had clients for one service and they return for the other. My theory is they are one and the same. Event & Interiors both are based on a theme, colors, patterns, and textures. The ONLY difference between the two are events are temporary design and interiors are long lasting. I’m most proud of my growth and I see the potential of where I could go.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ladesigneraffair.com
• Phone: 832-517-0616
• Email: info@ladesigneraffair.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladesigneraffair/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ladesigneraffair/

Image Credit:
Lauren Ashley of LA Weddings & Interiors Designer, Photographer Rae Kade Photography, Texas International Endoscopy Center

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