Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Vidal
Hi Ashley, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I launched XO CHOCOLATES HOUSTON in 2020, right in the middle of the COVID pandemic. Like so many others, I found myself at home, navigating the chaos of four kids—three of them under three!—while also feeling the weight of financial uncertainty. My husband, an essential worker, was out every day providing for us, but it was still a struggle.
Creativity has always been my outlet, and for years, friends and family encouraged me to turn my passion into a business. I’ve always been detail-OBSESSED and loved making things beautiful, but it wasn’t until COVID turned life upside down that I finally took the leap. Looking back, as challenging as that time was, it was also the push I needed to start XO CHOCOLATES HOUSTON—and I haven’t looked back since!
What started as a creative escape has turned into something so much bigger: a thriving business built on passion, artistry, and a love for bringing people joy through chocolate. And honestly? I’m beyond grateful for where this journey has taken me!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Honestly, I’ve been fortunate not to experience any earth-shattering struggles, but like any business owner, I’ve had my fair share of lessons learned—and I’m grateful for every single one of them! Each challenge, big or small, has helped me grow, both personally and professionally.
One of the biggest hurdles for me has always been work-life balance. I’m a total workaholic—I love what I do, I love creating, and I can easily get lost in it. But as a mom, balancing the demands of running XO CHOCOLATES HOUSTON while being present for my family is a constant juggling act. It’s something I have to be intentional about every day.
Another major lesson? Knowing your worth. When you’re just starting out, it’s so tempting to lower your prices just to land clients and build momentum. I’ll admit, I fell into that trap in the beginning. But over time, I gained the confidence to stand by my pricing because I knew my product was worth it—110%. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve received pushback on pricing, but at the end of the day, you have to be willing to respectfully stand by the value of your work. Not everyone is your customer, and that’s okay! Those who appreciate quality will always be willing to invest in it.
At the end of the day, business is a learning experience, and I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything. Every challenge has made me stronger, sharper, and even more passionate about what I do!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
XO CHOCOLATES HOUSTON isn’t just a business—it’s a passion, an experience, and a way to bring creativity to life through chocolate. We believe that every client should feel like they’re part of the creation process, not just purchasing a mass-produced treat. When you order from us, you’re not just getting chocolate—you’re getting a one-of-a-kind edible masterpiece.
What truly sets us apart is our commitment to craftsmanship. Each order is designed as a unique work of art, from the quality of the chocolate itself to the personalized communication with our clients and the thoughtful packaging that makes every delivery feel like an unwrapping moment of joy. We believe that gift-giving should be meaningful, not generic. A box of chocolates isn’t just a box—it’s an experience.
At XO CHOCOLATES HOUSTON, we specialize in ALL THINGS CHOCOLATE! Whether it’s chocolate-covered strawberries, gourmet cookies, custom-made chocolate bars, or our signature breakable chocolate hearts, diamonds, and other incredible shapes, we bring creativity and indulgence together in the sweetest way possible.
We’re most proud of the fact that our brand is built on passion, artistry, and a deep love for making people feel special. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, sending a thoughtful gift, or just indulging in something decadent, we want every bite to be memorable.
At the end of the day, XO CHOCOLATES HOUSTON isn’t just about selling chocolate—it’s about creating moments, memories, and pure chocolate magic!
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
What was I like growing up? Well, let’s just say I was the black sheep of the family—in the best way possible! My parents had very high academic expectations for me and my siblings, but school was always a struggle for me. From an early age, I knew the traditional path wasn’t for me. The idea of doing the same thing every day in a conventional career felt daunting.
What did excite me, though, was anything creative. I loved art, decorating, and design—whether it was drawing, crafting, or simply dreaming up beautiful spaces. If I had gone to college, I always imagined it would be for graphic design or interior design, but those dreams didn’t get much support from my family. For a while, I let that hold me back.
As I got older, though, I had a huge realization: you only get one life, and you have to live it for yourself, not for anyone else. It’s easy to follow the expectations of others, but at the end of the day, you’re the one who has to live with the “what ifs.” Since embracing that mindset, I’ve made it a point to pursue every creative passion that brings me joy. And honestly? That’s how XO CHOCOLATES HOUSTON was born—through a love for creating, a passion for flavors, and the belief that doing what you love is always worth it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.xochocolateshouston.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xochocolateshouston/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/xochocolateshouston
Image Credits
XO CHOCOLATES HOUSTON
