Meet Ashleigh Ludlam | Author and Owner/Founder of Affordably Chic Boutique, So Rad Swag and AshleighsAffordables

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashleigh Ludlam and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashleigh, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I started my first business in 2011, I originally considered it mostly a hobby and creative interest of mine. However, I quickly realized that the business could really be not only successful, but also an opportunity to turn this into a full-time career. The idea that I could be my own boss, create my own hours, do things and run things in ways that I saw fit, while also bringing little bits of joy to others..well, that was enough for me to dive head first. Since then, I have opened two more small businesses and I work each day to not only sustain them, but to also grow them. Having control of your time is one of the most valuable assets that we can possess.
 

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am the Owner & Founder of three small businesses:

AshleighsAffordables — Custom handmade wire jewelry and accessories business (est 2011)

Affordably Chic Boutique — Online women’s boutique (est 2016)

So Rad Swag — Custom made-to-order unisex apparel company (est 2022)

I am also a published children’s book author: “My Grandma Lives in Heaven” , “When I Imagine Heaven” (both available in paperback and Kindle versions through Amazon, as well as through Books-A-Million website)

It has never been easy and likely never will be, but I am very proud to say that I did not give up despite the multiple obstacles that I have encountered in the process. I have had the honor of creating for/sharing with customers throughout not only the entire United States, but also the whole world–that in itself is so surreal to me.

Trying to “stand out” in such an over-saturated market is a constant challenge, but I do believe that my genuine approach to the quality of my customer service, as well as my love for what I do does in a way give me an advantage over other businesses that are like my own.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We live in an area that is surrounded by endless dining, artistic, adventurous, scenic, etc. activities. Downtown Charleston is a popular choice for its beautiful views, 5 star restaurants, and history–but you can also experience these things in smaller surrounding cities such as; Summerville, Mount Pleasant, etc. I love an opportunity for live music and dancing while also enjoying a delicious meal in the beautiful South Carolina Spring weather.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, God without a doubt deserves a great deal of credit for anything that I have in my life. I also would not be where I am without the love and support of my family and boyfriend (the very talented Sean Morgan of MUVIfilms). To anyone who has made a purchase from one of my stores, bought one of my books, given their well wishes, or shared my posts on social media, I truly thank you for not only believing in what I have created, but also in me.

Website: https://linktr.ee/ashleighdl

Instagram: instagram.com/ashleighdludlam

Facebook: Facebook.com/ashleigh.ludlam

Other: www.affordablychic.com www.soradswag.com https://www.booksamillion.com/search?filter=&id=9130574738460&query=ashleigh+d+ludlam