From a young age, Ashley had a passion for creativity, business, and community. As a child, she transformed her bedroom into a neighborhood library, sharing her love of reading with local kids. Her artistic side blossomed through private art classes and a deep interest in shop class, where she loved building and creating functional projects with wood.
Ashley pursued a degree in Business Management at the University of Central Florida, graduating in 2000. She built a successful career in the mortgage industry, gaining comprehensive experience in residential lending. Alongside her professional achievements, Ashley remained deeply involved in community service, serving as a Rotarian, an affiliate member of the Lakeland Association of Realtors, a board member of the Downtown Lakeland Partnership, and Treasurer of the Lakeland Art Guild.
Her creative spirit never faded. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ashley left the mortgage industry to focus on family and reignite her passion for creating. She launched a thriving top rated gift shop on Etsy, selling a variety of handcrafted goods and furnishings... to name a few, the very popular unicorn headboards, epoxy resin ocean wine glasses, and surfboard towel racks, which later expanded to stores and markets across Florida.
In 2022, Ashley and her family relocated to St. Augustine, where the beach became both her inspiration and creative workspace. Collecting natural materials from the shore, she began designing intricate beach village wall art, earning recognition in prestigious juried art shows like Mayfaire by the Lake and participating in local events such as the Old Town Art Show.
Driven by her passion for creativity and a desire to help others experience the joy of making, Ashley founded Free Your Mind, St. Augustine’s only DIY & creative art studio. Through hands-on classes in painting, woodworking, epoxy resin, and more, Ashley empowers both children and adults to explore their creativity, build confidence, and discover the therapeutic benefits of artistic expression.
Ashley is also an active member of the St. Augustine Beach Rotary Club, continuing her lifelong dedication to community involvement. She has truly turned her passion into her purpose—helping others unlock their creative potential while doing what she loves every day.