Meet Ashley Baumgartner | Wedding Photographer + Bridal Boutique Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Baumgartner and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Many years ago, I pursued creating my own business (started as a wedding calligrapher), to not only “be my own boss”, but to exercise creative strengths, build a flexible life, and scale my income as well. Falling in love with the wedding industry lead to becoming a wedding photographer – something that has provided all of the above, and more – unique opportunities of connection and travel, the closest friendships, a wide array of creative endeavors and projects, and more.

Following a love of wedding photography and an interest in wedding fashion, I quickly partnered with local planners who owned a wedding boutique to photograph their content. Nearing the end of 2023, they were thinking of closing, and so my husband and I took a leap and purchased the shop. We now are balancing two loves and two businesses – photography and a bridal boutique. I love that no two days are ever the same.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Now, owning a Bridal Boutique – I think coming from the wedding industry as a photographer has set us apart. Being in touch with what is happening in the wedding industry, not only from a photography edge, gives us unique insight into the bride’s experience, upcoming trends, and more. Balancing both businesses has been a challenge, but we are continuing to learn and grow day by day.

Ellis Blake is for the bride who wants classic with a twist. A bit of bold. Chic and contemporary. And someone who values a fun and unique experience.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Kristine Herman, another wedding photographer and now my best friend, has instrumental in not only my photography success (teaching me film), but her encouragement, support, partnership on many creative endeavors and more – she has helped me believe in myself and supported me in the highest of highs and lowest of lows.

Website: https://ellisblakebridal.com

Instagram: @ellisblakebridal

Facebook: ellisblakebridal

Other: TT @ellisblakebridal

Image Credits
Photographer: @ashbaumgartner (self)