We were lucky to catch up with Ashley Costello recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Ashley thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear the story of how you went from this being just an idea to making it into something real.
It all began with a deep-seated passion for both writing and illustrating. As someone who cherished books and loved to create visual stories, the idea of merging these passions into a business venture was always at the back of my mind. However, it wasn’t until I became a parent that the spark of inspiration for my first book truly ignited.
Teaching my young son the art of Reiki healing was a transformative experience. Starting when he was just a toddler, I introduced him to these gentle practices as a way to help him find inner peace and discover the power of his thoughts. Watching him grow and thrive through these teachings, I realized their potential to not only empower children but also to teach them valuable skills in emotional regulation and self-empowerment.
The idea for my first book, “What is Reiki Magic,” blossomed from this journey with my son. I saw it as an opportunity to share these profound teachings with a wider audience of young readers and their families. The process of turning this idea into a reality involved meticulous planning and creativity.
Firstly, I immersed myself in research, delving into the world of children’s publishing and self-publishing. I studied the market, learned about book formatting and illustration standards, and connected with other authors and illustrators for guidance.
With a clear vision in mind, I began outlining the book, blending storytelling with vibrant illustrations that would captivate young minds. Simultaneously, I navigated the practical aspects of self-publishing: from sourcing high-quality printing services to setting up distribution channels.
Marketing and outreach were also critical. I established a presence on social media platforms to connect with potential readers and caregivers interested in holistic parenting and children’s well-being. Building anticipation for the book’s release through teasers and engaging content was key to generating excitement and early interest.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I started my business during COVID-19, a time that coincided with becoming a mother and discovering the art of Reiki healing. In the midst of uncertainty, I found solace and purpose in nurturing both my newborn and my newfound passion for Reiki. Recognizing an opportunity to combine this passion with entrepreneurship, I ventured into creating an online business focused on selling high-quality, Reiki-charged crystals. This endeavor not only supported my young family but also allowed me to remain at home during one of the most challenging times of my life.
Prior to embracing motherhood and running an online business, I had a background in healthcare, specifically working in senior centers. My experience in healthcare instilled in me a deep-seated desire to help others, which naturally translated into my entrepreneurial journey.
Over the span of five years, my business flourished, evolving into a six-figure online enterprise. As my son grew older and I continued to practice and teach Reiki, my creativity expanded. This journey inspired me to write a five-book series on Reiki healing for children, titled the Reiki Magic Series.
I am immensely proud of how my business has grown from a personal passion to a successful venture that not only supports my family but also allows me to share the transformative power of Reiki with children and their families worldwide. My background in healthcare, coupled with my dedication to holistic wellness and creativity, sets me apart in the industry.
I am excited to continue this journey, creating meaningful content that empowers children to explore their inner strength and emotional well-being through the gentle art of Reiki. Whether through my books or my online offerings, I strive to make a positive impact on young lives and inspire a sense of empowerment and resilience.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
I believe several factors contributed to building my reputation in the market. Firstly, starting my business, Mystical Mama Boutique, during the challenging times of COVID-19 allowed me to tap into a niche market with a genuine need for holistic wellness products. My decision to focus on selling high-quality, Reiki-charged gemstones online resonated well with customers seeking both spiritual healing and tangible, ethically sourced products.
Through meticulous attention to quality and customer service, Mystical Mama Boutique quickly gained traction. Within a five-year span, I successfully grew the business to over a 10,000-strong following. This growth was supported by a robust online presence, strategic marketing efforts, and engaging with a community that valued authenticity and holistic living.
My background in healthcare, particularly my experience in senior centers, also played a crucial role. It instilled in me a deep sense of compassion and commitment to helping others, which translated seamlessly into my business ethos. This innate desire to support and empower individuals through holistic practices like Reiki resonated strongly with my audience.
Moreover, the success of Mystical Mama Boutique paved the way for expanding into writing and publishing. Inspired by my journey as a mother and entrepreneur, I authored the Reiki Magic Series, a collection of five books aimed at introducing children to the transformative benefits of Reiki healing. This creative extension further solidified my reputation as a thought leader in holistic children’s literature.
Overall, I attribute my reputation in the market to a combination of genuine passion, commitment to quality, and a deep understanding of customer needs. By staying true to these principles and continuously innovating, I’ve been able to build a brand that not only meets but exceeds expectations in the realm of holistic wellness and spiritual healing.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being a creative entrepreneur, especially in the realm of holistic wellness and children’s literature, is the profound impact I see on young minds and hearts. Through my journey with Mystical Mama Boutique and the creation of the Reiki Magic Series, I’ve had the privilege of not only sharing my passion for Reiki healing but also nurturing a community of families eager to explore holistic practices with their children.
Witnessing how my work resonates with children, empowering them to discover their inner strength and emotional resilience through stories and illustrations, is incredibly fulfilling. As my own son grows older, I’ve observed firsthand how exposure to creativity and holistic teachings has sparked his imagination and fueled his own passion for artistic expression.
Seeing him embrace creativity, explore new ideas, and develop a deep curiosity for the world around him reinforces the importance of storytelling and holistic practices in children’s development. It’s a joy to know that my journey as a creative entrepreneur not only enriches the lives of others but also inspires the next generation to embrace their creativity and harness their potential.
Ultimately, the most rewarding aspect is knowing that my work contributes positively to the growth and well-being of children, fostering a love for learning, empathy, and self-discovery through the power of art and holistic practices like Reiki healing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mysticalmamaboutique.com
- Instagram: MysticalMamaBoutique
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MysticalMamaBoutique
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleycos
