Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Barnes.
Hi Ashley, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hi, I’m Ashley. I’m a 33-year-old wife and mother of three. I always wanted to start a business, but I was afraid to fail. The pandemic allowed me time to be still and figure out what I wanted to do with my life.
I started Bella Goddess Beads in 2020. I enjoy reading books and learning about crystals, chakras, spirituality, and nature. I fell in love with waist-beads when I was going through a dark time in my life. I bought a couple of strands and put them on, not knowing how it would change my life for the better. I thought to myself, “if this helps build up my confidence and love myself, then it could do wonders for other women around the world.” Being an entrepreneur takes guts. I created a business to promote something that we all need in this world, and that’s self-love. It’s been a year and a half since I’ve started my business. I stepped out on faith and didn’t look back. I have done over twenty pop-up shops. I was a vendor at Black Beauty Expo. I’ve met hundreds of women and heard plenty of stories. The feedback I receive from women is heartfelt and brings tears to my eyes. I love what I do.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road and being an entrepreneur isn’t for the weak. I’ve had days where I lacked the motivation to keep going. Days where I questioned myself, like, is this something that I want to keep doing. It’s many things you need to research and understand before starting a business. Some days, I may sell out, and other days I might not make any sales. You must trust the process and stay true to your vision. Success doesn’t happen overnight.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I make authentic waist beads. Some people are familiar with them, and some people aren’t. Waist beads are a traditional African accessory that consists of small, medium, or large glass beads on a cotton string, elastic, or wire worn around the waist or hips. Typically, the meaning behind wearing beads varies and the wearer determines if it’s for spiritual reasons, body adornment, weight-loss awareness, maturity, fertility, and intimacy. They come in different colors and shapes and may also include decorative stones, crystals, or charms. I’m most proud of believing in myself and understanding that I can have anything I want in this life if I work hard for it. What sets me apart from others is that it’s not about the money for me. Instead, I want to help women love themselves more and build confidence.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
My advice on finding a mentor is straightforward by thoroughly doing your research and asking yourself these questions: 1. Why do you need a mentor? 2. Are you willing to put in the work that the mentor requires? 3. How would having a mentor be beneficial to your business? 4. How knowledgeable is the mentor in their field? 5. Does the mentor have any success stories? Finding the right mentor will change your life and your business for the better if you do the work. My advice on networking is always to be prepared. Keep business cards on hand. Networking can open doors because you never know who you are in the room with and whom you will meet. The connections that you make when networking is priceless. Always remember that you are a walking representation of your brand.
Contact Info:
- Email: bellagoddessbeads@gmail.com
- Website: Bellagoddessbeads.com
- Instagram: Bella Goddess Beads
- Facebook: Bella Goddess Beads
