EP 130: GROWING A BUSINESS OF GIFTS GALORE WITH ASHLEY WITHEY

This week’s episode is sponsored by @salesproducersinc, a progressive business to business company representing Gift, Lifestyle, Fashion, Personal Care, & Kids lines selling to retail stores with a mission to create long lasting, profitable relationships by adding significant value to our customers, vendors, and team partners. For more information, check out their social media or website, www.salesproducersinc.com.

Ashley Withey is an accomplished graphic designer with a diverse background spanning the worlds of nonprofit, corporate, and advertising. With experience working for renowned organizations such as Susan G. Komen, Marriott Vacation Club, and other major global brands, Ashley's journey in the design industry has been marked by success and growth.

In 2014, Ashley embarked on an entrepreneurial path, establishing her own freelance design company, which underwent a rebranding in late 2019, becoming Friendlily Press. Although the COVID-19 pandemic initially posed challenges, Ashley's resilience and determination allowed her business to flourish.

Between January and June of 2021, Friendlily Press had evolved from a one-person operation based at Ashley's home into a thriving enterprise with a dedicated team of nearly 20 professionals, operating out of expansive 6,000 square-foot offices and warehouses in Maitland, Florida.

Today, Friendlily Press collaborates with companies of all sizes, crafting wholesale merchandise, direct-to-consumer goods, and promotional pieces to help further the success of others. Ashley's client roster boasts an impressive array of notable names, including Francescas, Voss Water, A&E Media Group,
Amazon Video, and many others. Moreover, the company serves over 500 small business boutiques nationwide, fostering a vibrant community of partnerships.

Outside of work, Ashley finds joy in her loving relationship with her supportive husband, Rhett, and their delightful five-year-old son, Calloway. When they are not engaged in their thriving enterprise, the family enjoys quality time at Disney, exploring new travel destinations, and actively contributing to their local community by assisting with the operations of the community little league.

Here, Ashley shares her background and how she went from being a graphic designer to starting and growing Friendlily Press. Michelle and Ashley discuss where the name Friendlily came from as well as how the Friendlily product line has expanded since its inception. They also talk about Friendlily’s production evolution, how Ashley designed her merchandise offerings, and what she’s currently focused on in the business.

What’s Inside:

• How Ashley started Friendlily Press and where the name came from
• How the Friendlily Press product line has expanded over the years
• Where Ashley finds creative inspiration

Mentioned In This Episode:
Friendlily Press Website
Friendlily Press on Instagram
Friendlily Press on Facebook
Friendlily Press on LinkedIn
Friendlily Press on TikTok