Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley.
Hi Ashley, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey as a content creator began with a love for photography and video back in high school. I was drawn to storytelling through visuals and started using Instagram in 2014 as a creative outlet, and eventually started my personal brand (theashbernal) in 2016. Inspired by the rise of micro-blogging and long-form captions, I began sharing my personal style and daily life with intention, even while balancing college and many retail jobs.
By 2018, I left college and earned certifications in SEO, analytics, and social media marketing. I started managing accounts for small businesses, learning the behind-the-scenes of brand building. In 2020, after losing my job during the pandemic, I took a leap and launched my own business, TheAshBernal, LLC. With the support of my parents and a lot of self-pitching, I turned my passion into a career!
Now, through @theashbernal, I share my life through fashion, photography, and storytelling. It hasn’t always been easy, but I’m incredibly grateful to have built a career doing what I love!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It wasn’t an easy path…at one point, I was in a relationship that made me second-guess myself and what I was doing on social media, and I struggled with comparison and insecurity. But hitting that low taught me that growth comes from putting in the work and staying true to who you are. Now, through @theashbernal, I get to create with intention, share my story and enjoy the magic in everyday!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My “why” has always been about creating a space where people feel safe, seen, and inspired. I treat my IG as a community, not just a platform. My followers truly feel like friends! We connect daily, support each other, and it’s always so special meeting them in real life!
Day to day, I share my life authentically on Instagram. No filters, no fluff, just real moments. I partner with brands to create content for my page and also produce UGC on retainer and have the pleasure of being hosted in many avenues of the hospitality space!
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about Orlando is how it truly feels like the best of both worlds. There’s the fun and energy of the theme parks, but also so many cozy pockets of local charm. From coffee shops and farmers markets to hidden gems in Winter Park and the Mills 50 area. It feels creative, diverse, and full of opportunity. I’ve met some of the most kind and inspiring people here, and there’s a sense of community that makes it feel like home. Plus, there’s always something new to explore, which keeps me inspired every single day! My heart is so happy to be here 🤍
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theashbernal/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@theashbernal
