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

Hi Ashley, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
My work life balance has definitely changed over the years. When I was first getting started, I really pushed my modeling and marketing work through social media. In addition, I was completing my Bachelors in Communicative Disorders and Deaf Education. Eventually, I pursued and completed my Master’s in Educational Counseling. I constantly had my phone on me and began collaborating with businesses, brands, and photographers. I slowly began receiving paid job opportunities and offers. The time I was putting into my work began to pay off. I definitely have had to take steps back from work at times to focus on my family and friends. I believe it is so easy to become consumed in work when you love what you do, especially when you want to continue to grow and get better in the field you work in. There is a constant need for models in the industry and it can be extremely competitive and fast paced. This can make balance challenging at times. This year has taught me a lot on the importance of spending as much time as you can with your loved ones. I have always known that family and friends are important but this year really reinforced it for myself. I was living in Pescadero at the time when my dad had been sick and was diagnosed with cancer. I would make frequent trips out to visit my parents, family and friends in Stockton. This was a 2.5- 3 hour or more drive one way each time. My dad passed in March of 2022 and I was able to be with him. It was one of the most difficult things that I have ever seen and been through. In October, I moved to Stockton to be near family while still making the commute for work daily. I am on the road for 6 hours each day, while also shooting after work or on the weekends. I continue to make time for my family and friends. It has helped me so much by living closer to my loved ones. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their love and support.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have been modeling for about 10 years and promote a lot of my work through instagram, Like To Know It, Amazon Live, and my website. I have been signed to a few different nonexclusive agencies. I am most proud that I have promoted a lot of my own work and made many connections through social media. I have gotten to where I am today by forming connections with wonderful people in the industry that have been so supportive of my modeling. It has taken a lot of hard work, persistence, and time over the years to get where I am right now. I have always had a really busy and full life. I try to stick to a schedule for modeling so that I can fit everything in throughout my day. I have learned that while balance is very important in life so is persistence to get where you want to be. I constantly was applying for jobs and agencies when I was first starting out and didn’t realize how much work it would take to finally get to where I am at. Eventually agencies began reaching out to me through instagram. I want the world to know that you can do whatever you set your mind to as long as you’re willing to work for it and keep trying. I decided to begin my career by constantly posting through social media and signing up for different modeling competitions. That’s when everything began falling into place and I began receiving more job opportunities.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take my best friend to Monterey. It is one of my favorite places to visit. We would go to Cannery Row, 17 mile drive, the beach, and Fisherman’s Wharf. Cannery Row is so much fun as it has the aquarium, candy shops, ice cream, pubs, and restaurants. 17 mile drive is an absolutely stunning drive by the coast where you could go shopping or golfing in Pebble Beach. I love driving by all of the beautiful and unique homes in the area. One of my favorite restaurants on Fisherman’s Wharf is definitely The Grotto. Their seafood is amazing and when I went they gave us roses after our meal. The service was wonderful and the ambiance is impressive.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family and friends have all been so supportive of my modeling career. I have met some wonderful people through modeling and formed great friendships. I am grateful for all of my family and friend’s love and support through my journey. There are photographers that I have continued to work with throughout the years and have taught me so much. I would not be where I am today if it wasn’t for their support.

  

Website: https://aherrington1995.editorx.io/my-site-2

Instagram: ashleyoliviah

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AshleyHerrington95/

Other: Email: aherrington1995@gmail.com

Image Credits
Red dress photo- David Robertson Leopard boots photo- Hong Majaya

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