We were lucky to catch up with Ashley Franklin recently and have shared our conversation below.

Ashley, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. One of the most important things we can do as business owners is ensure that our customers feel appreciated. What’s something you’ve done or seen a business owner do to help a customer feel valued?

So, one of the best ways I’ve shown love to a customer? Picture this: A mom needed one of our bows for her daughter’s first day of school, but I realized shipping wasn’t going to cut it. Instead of letting her down, I loaded up my daughters, turned it into a mini road trip, and dropped the bow right in their mailbox. It was the kind of little adventure that became a whole experience—not just for my girls and me, but for the customer, too.

Later, when the mom found it, she was over the moon! She told me it made her and her daughter feel like family. And honestly, that’s the core of Lovehearted Kiddos. We’re about more than products; we’re about showing up, going that extra mile (literally), and making real connections. And the best part? Seeing that moment of joy we were able to create for them—it’s why I love what I do

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hey, I’m Ashley, the proud mama behind Lovehearted Kiddos. My journey into the world of bows started as a personal mission: I wanted to create fun and unique accessories for my daughters, Addi and Amelia. As I made bows for them, I realized there was a real need for something special—something that not only made kids look adorable but also helped them express their individuality. So, I decided to turn that passion into a business.

At Lovehearted Kiddos, we specialize in crafting whimsical hairbows that stand out. Each bow is made with love, using high-quality fabrics and prints that kids (and their parents) can’t resist. We’re all about celebrating every child’s unique style, whether it’s a fancy bow for a birthday party or a playful one for everyday adventures. What really sets us apart is our focus on connection. We’re not just a brand; we’re a community. I love engaging with our customers on social media, sharing ideas, and even customizing bows to fit their kids’ personalities.

What I’m most proud of is the joyful impact we’re able to create. Seeing kids light up when they wear our bows makes all the hard work worth it. I want everyone to know that Lovehearted Kiddos is about more than just hair accessories; it’s about spreading love, positivity, and a sense of belonging. We’re here to make every child feel extraordinary and to celebrate the little moments that matter.

So, if you’re looking for something special to make your child shine or just want to be part of a community that values joy and creativity, you’re in the right place.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Building my reputation in the market has been a journey, and honestly, it boils down to a few key things. First off, I’ve always believed in staying true to myself and my vision. When you’re authentic, folks can feel that vibe, and it draws them in. I’m not afraid to speak truths. If something goes well or not so great!

Next, I really focus on community. Engaging with my customers is crucial—whether it’s through social media or at local events, I love connecting with other parents and kids. I make it a point to respond to messages, ask for feedback, and even feature our little customers wearing their bows. It’s all about building relationships, not just transactions. When people feel valued, they’re more likely to share your brand with others.

Then there’s quality. I’m super particular about the materials I use and the designs I create. I want every bow to be something special—something that makes kids feel confident and parents feel good about their purchase.

Lastly, I embrace creativity and fun. Whether it’s through playful designs, catchy names, or quirky marketing ideas, I try to bring a sense of joy to everything we do.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

There was a point in my journey with Lovehearted Kiddos when I found myself feeling really overwhelmed. Balancing everything—from being a mom to running a business—started to take a toll on my mental health. I realized that I was pushing myself too hard, and I needed to hit the pause button to regroup.

Instead of trying to power through, I took a step back. I focused on self-care and re-evaluating what truly mattered to me. During that time, I connected with my daughters, spent quality moments with them, and remembered why I started this journey in the first place.

This pivot was essential. It taught me that it’s okay to take a break and prioritize mental well-being. I learned that being vulnerable and open about my struggles not only helped me heal but also deepened my connection with my community. When I returned, I felt refreshed and ready to embrace the brand with a new perspective.

Now, I share that journey with my customers to remind them that we’re all human. Life can be messy, but it’s important to give ourselves grace and take time to recharge. This experience has shaped how I approach my business and my interactions with customers—emphasizing authenticity and connection over everything else.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.loveheartedkiddos.com
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Loveheartedkiddos

Image Credits

Amelia Kowalisyn Photography (Featured Photo)
The pictures with the girl with the pink bow and two girls at the table were done by Lindzee Merrill Commercial