We recently had the chance to connect with Ashley McPeak and have shared our conversation below.
Ashley, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
My daughter! People always tell you how amazing having kids is but I truly do not think you understand that until you have one. My baby just turned 8 months old and there is absolutely nothing greater than watching her grow and learn new skills!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! My name is Ashley McPeak. If you read my article a few years back you might have noticed my name change! I’m 23 now, married to the love of my life, & I’m a mama to the most beautiful baby girl! Incase you didn’t see my last article, I own Rustic Grounds in Woodbury, Tennessee. I started Rustic Grounds at the age of 18. I graduated high school in 2020, therefore my senior year was cut short. At the time I was also a serve at a local restaurant so not only was I unexpectedly out of school but I was also out of work. During the pandemic, I spent my time building a mobile coffee shop inside of a two horse trailer that I had bought off of Facebook marketplace. I opened my trailer in September of 2020. At the time I was a full time bank teller & ran my trailer on the weekends. Fast forward to March of 2021, I opened full time in a brick & mortar. My first store front was only about 600 sqft including the storage rooms. After about two years, I moved a few doors down & doubled our space! We’ve been in this building since April of 2023!
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My dad, most definitely! I’ve always been told I get my work ethic from my dad. I remember from a young age, I was always taught to work hard & earn the things you want. I believe even for a child, when you work for what you want, you appreciate it more.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Don’t doubt yourself! Growing up, especially in high school, when I would tell people I wanted to own a business the response was always down putting. I eventually started telling people I wanted to go into a different profession because I didn’t want to be discouraged by all the people who thought I couldn’t own a business.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What do you believe is true but cannot prove?
Everything happens for a reason. Whether it’s been in my business or my personal life, I always go in with the mind set of if it’s meant to happen, it will happen.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
I’m not going to sugar coat it. Owning a business is not sunshine & rainbows all the time. But I can honestly say, at this moment in time I enjoy working. I’ve finally found a good work/life balance spending enough time at work but also taking much needed family time. I currently have a team of 7 girls who are fantastic and truly make my daisy full of laughter & fun!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @rusticgroundscoffee_
- Facebook: Rustic Grounds
Image Credits
Self photo Leah Ellis Photography
Other none
