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

Hi Ashley, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
The most important lesson that my business has taught me is that love and support comes from the most unexpected places and it’s ok to lean into that extra love.

I have always been stubborn. Since I was young, I have been extremely independent and nurtured the belief that I don’t need help from others – that my hard work and determination would be all that I would ever need to gain success in life. While those traits have been a huge contribution to my success, I acknowledge that one cannot take on the burden of being solely independent all the time. It wasn’t until I started my business that I realized the importance of community and having a strong support system.

My support stems from a mixture of personal relationships and loyal clients. I love having the emotional support system that pushes me to be the best! I never thought that I’d find so much genuine love and support from my clients and I am so grateful to have that kind of relationship with them. Whether I need advice, a second opinion, or a laugh, I have never been let down. Had I not accepted this lesson of leaning on other people for support, I don’t think I’d be this motivated or eager to find new ways to grow my business.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business, Bleu Aesthetics ATL, is a mellow and inclusive studio where I offer Advanced Skincare Treatments, Brow Services, 1:1 Trainings and more. What sets my business apart from others in the industry is the welcoming and positive environment that I’ve created. I want every person who sits in my chair to be able to escape reality and have an outstanding experience. I want the world to know that no matter who you are or where you come from, you deserve to be prioritized, taken care of, and accepted (our unofficial mission statement).

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’ve lived in MetroATL going on 5 years now! When I moved here I was consumed with school and work. Now that I’m my own boss, I’ve been exploring the greatness that Atlanta has to offer!

My favorite thing to do in the city is try new cuisines! Some of my go-to spots are Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen (the one on Windy Hill – if you know, you know), Grindhouse Burgers in ATL, and The Italian Oven in Stockbridge. I could list food spots all day!

I’m an extreme introvert, so I’m not one to go to nightclubs or parties. I do; however, love shopping and sightseeing! Ponce City Market has an amazing book store called Posman Books. While at Ponce, I also usually wind up at The Victorian, an exotic plant shop with the rare tropical greenery. In the Spring, when nature is thriving, my favorite place is the Atlanta Botanical Gardens.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First things first, shoutout to my partner for sticking beside me these past 5 years and providing stability for me to chase my dream. I also want to acknowledge my previous employment because I would not have this much experience and expertise under my belt had I jumped directly into entrepreneurship right out of school. A BIG shoutout to my therapist for listening to me rant and giving me the tools to become more at peace with my life. Lastly, my clients who have become more like an extended family to me: Thank you guys for your awesome conversations, TV show recommendations, laughs, words of encouragement and most of all your loyalty. Thank you for trusting me with your beautiful faces. This business would be merely an idea without your support.

Website: bleuaesthetics.as.me

Instagram: @BleuAestheticsATL

Facebook: facebook.com/Bleu-Aesthetics-ATL-105399285454422/

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