We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ashley Messer. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ashley below.

Ashley , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your business sooner or later

I have always been passionate about visual arts, collaboration, horses and entrepreneurship. I started barrel racing when I got my first horse, Misty, at the age of 15. I started to get more involved in horse training and giving my own riding lessons before I started down the path of obtaining a four year degree. Originally I pursued Graphic Design after High School and Graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth with my Bachelors in 2013. I had been teaching Art Part time with Community Education programs but never envisioned myself as a Teacher. I tried for years to find full time work in Graphic Design but ultimately I was not happy in that career. I started my own business, Creative Studio 23, in 2019, all while working a typical 9-5 at an auto body shop as a Supervisor. My dreams of being more involved with horses fell to the back burner as I prioritized starting a family. Ultimately after being married, owning our own house, setting up space for some horses at home, working a 9-5 with benefits and good pay; we were still struggling to make ends meet and picture starting a family. I was burnt out. I considered going back to school for Art Education but couldn’t find a way to make it work and afford what we needed. In 2020 we found a horse property with my mother and moved in that fall. I found out I was pregnant and I quit my full time job. Then the pandemic hit. We navigated all the changes of employment, finally starting a family and trying to keep Creative Studio 23 going. A huge shift occurred between my husband and I, and we separated early December 2021. A week after we separated, I found out I was pregnant with the second child we were trying to have. During those difficult times, I pushed myself to overcome so many challenges. I started growing my own riding lesson program and expanding Creative Studio 23. I finally found options to go back to school and pursue a Masters in Art Education and Teaching Licensure. This year I officially filed for my LLC and created Misty’s Mission Stables. And finally, started a non-profit organization with some amazing women in my community.

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?

Creative Studio 23 is a mobile art studio. I teach acrylic painting, watercolor, mixed media, drawing and clay. CS23 works with rural Community Education programs and partners with local businesses around Cambridge & Isanti. Our most popular art class options are wine and paint nights, but we also offer private paint parties in peoples homes as well! What sets CS23 apart from most other “paint night” businesses, is that I do not pre-draw any of the designs and teach core visual art education foundations.

Misty’s Mission Stables is an Equine Education Program and Riding Lesson program located on our 20 acre hobby farm in Nowthen. We pride our program in prioritizing mutual respect, safety and communication between all participants (human and horse). I have always been an animal advocate and have found that it’s important to educate youth, adults and future horse owners the importance learning all aspects of horses!

The Northern Women’s Business Collaborative was started in March of 2023, between my friend Esther and I. We wanted to create a group that would help women owned businesses in our local community. Many other similar groups existed but it wasn’t what we were looking for. This year we officially filed and became a non-profit organization. NWBC is dedicated to fostering meaningful connections while providing opportunities for mentorship and personal development to empower women knees businesses in Isanti, Cambridge and surround areas.

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

Honestly, for all the things I’m dedicated to right now, it comes down to authenticity. If you are truly passionate and aligned with your business vision, you will attract the right people and love the work you do.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Referrals. I have had the best luck with my current customers talking to people they know about what I do! Yes some leads come from social media or business partners but the best clients come from existing clients.

Contact Info:

• Website: Creativestudio23.com
• Instagram: creativestudio_23
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creativestudio23?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Other: Misty’s Mission Stables – www.ashleymesserhorsemanship.com NWBC group – https://www.facebook.com/share/guCQzYdzi6Hr9YsB/?mibextid=K35XfP

Image Credits
Samantha Rose Photography