We recently connected with Ashley Verhasselt and have shared our conversation below.

Ashley, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s start with the decision of whether to donate a percentage of sales to an organization or cause – we’d love to hear the backstory of how you thought through this.

Yes!! I truly love supporting my fellow entrepreneurs and artists. Giving back to my community has been the greatest blessing and truly is the life force of my company. I’ve had the opportunity to connect with founders of original art brands, galleries and storefronts all while giving back to numerous schools in their fundraising goals.
Any additional gratuity I receive, I donate to my friend Marnie’s cause, you can visit the link below
https://capecodfoundation.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=3409
She was the most generous spirit and I love donating to her legacy.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My grandfather Robert Wallace (Papa) was a truly creative and warm person. He taught at Parsons School of Design, owned his own design firm, was a talented jazz drummer and really was my first photography teacher. He took me on my first film shoot in Asbury Park when I was twelve.

As we walked along the boardwalk from Spring Lake, we talked about composition, lines and sky. He taught me to take time and really think about the shot. I remember feeling the heavy camera in my hands as peered through the lens at those beautiful old buildings. There was a sense of both surrender and control that I loved. I was part of that place and my perspective was captured in that one steady click. Papa printed all of those images from that day beautifully and handed them to me with a grin in a crisp large envelope. That Christmas he gifted me my first camera. I carry with me my Grandfather’s light-hearted curiosity and love of people and their stories. It is at the core of everything I do.

After graduating, I worked as an actor in New York. I toured our beautiful nation one city at a time snapping pictures along the way. I met some of my best friends in those years, one of which ended up becoming my husband.

Once we got married, my heart was pulling me to stay in one place. I excitedly accepted a job at a photography studio in Manhattan. When our second baby was born, I decided to launch my own business here in Bergen County. I’ve loved growing my business and my community while evolving as a mother. I feel so connected to my work and the people I’ve met as a result.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My question when entering a session is “how can I bring out the meaning that I see in their purpose?”. I really listen to my clients and always find myself in the presence of truly good people who want good things for the world.
My goal is to be genuine and giving in all my work. Wherever my creative path takes me, I am driven by that sentiment.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Connection is the most rewarding part of my process. I love the opportunity to celebrate other artists and be a part of a community of creatives. I feel a tremendous amount of support from other businesses and love to lift people up!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ashvphotography.com
• Instagram: @Ashv_photography
• Facebook: Ash V Photography