We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ashley Brown a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Ashley, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What was the most important lesson/experience you had in a job that has helped you as a business owner?

One of the most important lessons I learned came from my time in the military. I had a mentor who drilled into me that you cannot complain about a problem without providing a solution as well. It’s a mindset that has been instilled in me ever since, and it’s played a huge role in how I approach business today.

The backstory is that during my service, we often faced high-pressure situations where things didn’t go as planned. My mentor made it clear that complaining about the problem wasn’t going to change anything. Instead, we were expected to assess the situation, identify potential solutions, and act on them. It wasn’t always about finding the perfect solution on the first try—it was about doing something productive rather than getting stuck in frustration.

This lesson has become crucial for me as a business owner. In the world of custom window treatments, like any business, there are constant challenges—whether it’s supply chain issues, design complexities, or client-specific needs. I’ve learned that by focusing on finding a solution instead of dwelling on the problem, you often resolve the issue faster, or at the very least, gain a new perspective that allows you to move forward more effectively.

Running a business, you quickly realize that challenges are inevitable. But what matters most is how you respond to them. Sometimes, by seeking solutions, you can fix the problem immediately. Other times, you have to accept that there may not be a better option, and that shift in mindset helps you move on. Either way, it’s always about progress, not stagnation. This solution-based approach has become a cornerstone of how we operate at Framed View Designs, and it’s helped us grow stronger and more resilient as a team.

Ashley, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Ashley Brown, Co-Founder and Design Consultant of Framed View Designs. My journey into the world of window treatments and interior design began after my time in the U.S. Navy, where I developed a commitment to detail and excellence. With a background in Graphic Design and Workforce Education, I’ve spent over a decade helping clients create beautiful, functional spaces.

At Framed View Designs, we specialize in custom window treatments that blend style with purpose. My philosophy is that your space should reflect your lifestyle, so I take the time to listen, understand your vision, and tailor every project to your unique needs. Whether it’s motorized blinds or custom drapery, we focus on creating solutions that enhance both the beauty and functionality of your home.

What sets us apart is our personalized approach. We collaborate closely with clients to ensure a seamless process, from consultation to installation. Beyond work, I’m passionate about family, the outdoors, and travel, which all inspire my design perspective.

Ultimately, I believe a well-designed space can enhance your life, and I’m dedicated to making that a reality for every client.

How’d you meet your business partner?

I met Travis almost a decade ago when he was brought on as an installer for a project I was working on. After having worked with many installers before him, it didn’t take long to realize that Travis was different. He was incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and personable—by far the best installer I had ever worked with. He had this innate ability to problem-solve, think outside the box, and ensure that every client was beyond satisfied, which immediately stood out to me.

What really solidified our partnership was that Travis shared the same work ethic and philosophy that I valued. His attention to detail and commitment to delivering exceptional results aligned perfectly with my vision for Framed View Designs. It became clear to me that if we wanted to build a company that was truly special, we needed someone like Travis at the helm of installations. His expertise in everything from drapery to motorized shades has been crucial to our success, and his innovative approach has allowed us to deliver high-quality, customized solutions for our clients.

We’ve now been working together for almost a decade, and it’s been an incredibly rewarding journey. Our partnership is built on mutual respect and shared creativity, and it’s that chemistry that makes Framed View Designs what it is today. Working alongside Travis has been a key part of our success, and I’m proud to have him as both a business partner and friend.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

The best source of new clients for us has been building strong relationships with referral partners. We’ve found success working with like-minded professionals in fields that naturally align with custom window treatments, such as interior designers, realtors, home automation experts, contractors, and home improvement companies.

These partnerships are based on trust and mutual respect. We make it a priority to be responsive, deliver exceptional results, and truly take care of the clients they refer to us. This level of care allows our partners to confidently recommend us, knowing their clients are in good hands.

We’ve also set up a great referral partnership program that rewards their support with bonuses and highlights their businesses on our social media and website. By going above and beyond for both our partners and clients, we’ve seen a steady increase in return clients, referrals, and positive reviews, all of which continue to grow our business and client base.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.framed-view-designs.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/framed_view_designs
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FramedViewDesigns
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-brown-2a789461?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@framed_view_designs?si=uKAtvKd6kEyLtnS7
• Yelp: https://yelp.to/JRVWY3NTXa

Image Credits

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