Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashlee Rivera.
Ashlee, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
When I started I had no real clue how to pursue a career or dream. I tried lots of things. Real estate, audio engineering, sales, but I wasn’t very sure. I always just believed in ideas and creativity. It’s all I’ve really known. So, wherever my ideas took me I went with it. Which is how I ultimately became a creative entrepreneur, and started my own fortune cookies business. The Fortunate Cookies, LLC was birthed as a fun hobby that quickly turned into a business by the support of others who loved my idea. I jumped into every opportunity full of fear and uncertainty but with excitement! It gave me lots of energy building something that was completely mine. I came out on the other side stronger, wiser, and with a better vision of who I was and what the brand represents. Who would have thought those little custom fortune cookies would be the opener of a door?! FORTUNATE now houses artisan desserts, a music label, and a clothing line.
Has it been a smooth road?
Building a brand has many obstacles, but it’s an inevitable growth opportunity. I welcome it all. To anyone who is starting out I would say do just that. Start! You’re already equipped with everything you need. Trust that.
Also, take time to connect with yourself. As an entrepreneur, the most valuable tools will be your mindset, your energy and the relationships you have. Your relationships have to be meaningful and authentic in order to create something worthwhile. I read somewhere that “bad energy scares the money away” and as a business owner, that’s what we don’t need! Personal development and proper rest of the mind and body will keep you restored to take it all on. It takes so much to run a business. Of course, working hard is a major key to bring your ideas to life, but if you don’t take time to take care of you- mentally, spiritually, and emotionally- your well will run dry. That means your ideas. Nurture that inner child inside you. That’s where your ideas are born. I learned that much later, but now, I make sure I take my time to self care and center.
We’d love to hear more about FORTUNATE.
I’m proud that FORTUNATE has evolved into a brand of intention. With our custom fortune cookies each cookie is unique and has its own personality. Our values and interests push thru into our tasty creations. I try to make sure that every part of what we do represents us and so many like us. I don’t conform to industry standards.
With the FORTUNATE brand I was able to create my own lane. I had to figure out what I liked. Made lots of mistakes along the way. I had no business or mentor to follow that I could relate to. To me, there is so much value in that. Proves that every journey is unique and divine. It’s allowed us to build a solid foundation and master our creativity. That’s what sets us apart. Our vision has evolved over time. We blend all of our accumulated influences and experience to make something really special for our clients. Taking a seemingly ordinary item and adding a vibe!
I started 7 years ago. Instagram was not at all what it is today. I had to figure out how to use this tool and create a way to maximize this amazing free resource. It felt like selling out the trunk! So I spent most of my time working in the business rather than on the business. Normal for the early stages. That allowed me the freedom to try every idea and concept. Items were created on the fly. Including our most popular item, the giant fortune cookie! That came year five. We didn’t invent it, but we definitely remixed it and made it better. Keep going!
Which women have inspired you in your life?
I’m inspired by women who are unapologetic. Which is why I love my pop divas. I have made so many themes around my favorite artists from Sade to Cardi B. They move with strength and intention. Graceful and badass. There is so much power in knowing who you are. Because in doing that, you empower other women to be themselves. I apply those principles to my life and brand. I am the Rihanna of baked goods, hahaha.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.thefortunatecookies.com
- Email: contact@thefortunatecookies.com
- Instagram: @thefortunatecookiees
Image Credit:
Imagine Abel Fate Photography, William Gomez
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