We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley King and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ashley, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind the success of my brand is trusting Christ. I know that may seem cliche to some, but when I am overwhelmed or burned out in entrepreneurship—by trying to do business in my efforts and strength—and I finally surrender to God is when things begin to flow. I have gotten referrals from people I didn’t even know, and it truly wasn’t through my efforts. Surrendering to God, to me, means making sure I spend time with God before I spend all my time in business. Being OK declining customers if they do not align with my morals or if they disturb my peace. And not focusing so much on money but purpose. Social media can make you feel like if you aren’t making six figures or more, your efforts are in vain. However, I know when I focus on my purpose, which is to have the most eternally impactful publishing and media company that not only introduces people to Christ but deepens their relationship with him—when I focus on that, I find so much peace, joy, and success in my brand. In all transparency, I still struggle with trusting my business to God because there are periods in which I wanted things yesterday, and I think he has forgotten about me. I think all entrepreneurs can relate to wanting to see their efforts manifest quickly, but it takes time. And part of me feels slightly shamed that, as a Christian, I struggle with trusting God, but it’s only when we are vulnerable and open to bettering ourselves that growth happens.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur, at least as far back as 6th grade. I didn’t know what the word was, so I would say I want to be a “millionaire” or “rich.” I’ve had several ventures over the years, some worked, and others didn’t. In 2010, I wrote my first book, and surprisedly to me, people read it and found it useful. It’s something about putting yourself out there for people to judge you that can make you so vulnerable and nervous. Years later, someone reached out to me and asked if I could help them write their book, and I did. And from there, clients just kept coming and business evolving. Being personable, honest, and taking pride in what I do has helped me stay and thrive in business. It’s not easy, but it gets easier over time when you have the right systems and people in place. My challenge is myself and handling the growth of the business. I can doubt my greatness and overthink things. And at times, I could want 20 authors in one month but is my company designed to handle that. As my business grows, I want to ensure that I can still give quality and personable customer service. People look for a brand that is reliable, relatable, real. And I am that. I don’t promise you that you’re going to make six figures with your book, and there are coaches and people that can help you do that. I promise that I can help you tell your story to be impactful and evoke change in a reader. I see publishing as a ministry, and one of the greatest books that have ever been written that has evoked changed and has millions of people living by it is the Bible. I want to write books that have a lasting positive affect.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I am perhaps the worst to ask this—I feel like I am an old soul—my best friends and family joke that I am in bed by 8:30 pm. I am the one to host a cookout at my house, and everyone else can go where they please for the after-party, lol. I have friends that have a pillow, blanket, and a spot on the couch ready for me when my husband and I go to their house during football or basketball season. But there are some spots that I enjoy, so I’m going say 9 Mile Station (Ponce City Market) for their view, Vista Vibe (Tucker) for live jazz, Intermezzo Cafe for some good dessert and tea, The Beltline for some bike riding and nice scenery, and of course I’m gone say church, All About Jesus Ministries (Cartersville, GA) for some praise and worship.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Numerous people have helped me to get where I am and where I am trying to go. I want to thank my family and friends, my All About Jesus Ministries family, and, most notably, my better half and rider, David King.
Website: www.ashleymking.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theashleymking/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theashleymking
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpAHnt_–QcXVci5uY5j29Q?view_as=subscriber
Other: Please provide photographer credit to the thumbnail. The first (single image uploaded) RaQuita Weathers of Belle Rouge Photography, LLC
Image Credits
RaQuita Weathers of Belle Rouge Photography, LLC