Meet Ashley Schaffer of Bows For Show in Chandler

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Schaffer.

Ashley, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started Bows For Show in 2007 when my first daughter was born. I wanted her to have a bow for every outfit but I had a hard time finding what I was looking for at an affordable price. I decided to search YouTube for tutorials and I bought some ribbon and got to work at my kitchen table. It soon became my obsession! I started getting custom requests from family and friends and that’s when I opened my Etsy shop in 2011. I eventually started doing local markets around the valley and my business just grew from there!

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It wasn’t exactly an easy journey for me. Being a work at home mom can come with a lot of criticism from so many different directions. As my business grew I noticed that I was not being taken seriously by my peers. I have heard comments like, “your just a stay at home mom?” And “are you ever going to get a real job?”. These hurtful comments were made by the people closest to me. I have found strength and support in other makers in my community. People who understand how much work and dedication goes into being an entrepreneur. At this point, I feel very confident about what I do and I will no longer let negative comments bother me. I take so much pride in being able to contribute to my family in an alternative way.

Please tell us more about your company.
Bows For Show is a handmade hair bow company in Chandler, Arizona. We are known for our simple, classic hair bows and bowties. I’m proud to say that every item is handmade by me from start to finish. From cutting fabric to tying the bows to packaging and shipping! I focus on excellent customer service and fast shipping.

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I have so many plans for the future! I would love to see our bows in retail stores around the valley.. I already have a few in the works! I plan on doing several more markets, as well. I am currently working on rebranding and creating a new logo. I’m looking forward to 2020 and all the exciting things it will bring!

Contact Info:

• Website: Bowsforshow.etsy.com
• Phone: 4806959405
• Email: bowsforshow@yahoo.com
• Instagram: @shopbowsforshow
• Facebook: Facebook.com/bowsforshow/

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