Happy November, Moms! It's a new month and we're so excited to spotlight Ashley Connell, owner of Raising Good and also a Marketing Manager! Learn all about Ashley, her family, and her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in our interview below.
Please tell us your name and profession.
Ashley Connell. I am the owner of Raising Good, a family apparel company and I work as a Marketing Manager for another Mom owned business.
Please tell us a little bit about your family and what brought you to Milwaukee.
I have one cute as a button 2 year old, Ruby. I moved to Milwaukee 12 years ago to be with my boyfriend, who’s now my husband. I fell in love with the city and have enjoyed watching it grow over the years. My husband is my biggest cheerleader in life and business. I am grateful for the partner he is to me.
I used to be a corporate event planner but shifted gears to follow my passion of owning my own business, after having my first child.
Being biracial (my dad is Mexican, and my mom is White) has really shaped how I view the world. Celebrating culture, traditions old and new, inclusiveness, and positivity is something that is important to me.
I wanted to share these values by expressing them on clothing and the passion truly took a front seat after having my little girl. I wanted to show off being a mom!
What is the best part about being connected with Working Moms of Milwaukee?
I think it’s both inspiring and motivating to see how many amazing moms are successful in various professions. It reminds me of how lucky I am to have this network to lean on if it is needed. I also love being able to support other women owned businesses, so having the directory on this site provides me with that information.
What's been the biggest thing you've learned since the beginning of this 2020 year?
Where do I begin?! This year has brought on so many challenges in both my personal and professional life. The biggest takeaway so far has been that at any moment life can change, so remember to soak in the good.
Explain/describe one of your proudest mom moments recently.
My daughter’s joyous nature to break out in dance in the middle of the grocery store. During a pandemic especially, these little moments count.
What's the most challenging aspect of your personal life right now?
As a very social being, I would say social distancing has been hard. I know it is for the best, but I’m missing a lot of in person gatherings, hugs and conversations.
What is the most challenging aspect of your professional life right now?
I would say balancing working from home with my two jobs and taking care of my 2 year old. My husband’s career takes him away from home, so we have been navigating this challenge during the pandemic. Thankfully, I have a generous sister-in-law, who has been stepping in and helping me when it is needed. I guess you could say that is more personal, but I find this to be a challenge I am rising above in my professional day to day work life.
What's your advice for other moms that hope to own their own business in the future?
Without risk, there is no reward. If you have a passion for something, see it through. It won’t be easy, you may fail, but taking a chance on something for yourself is courageous. Your kids should see that side of you.
Do you have a favorite place to go in Milwaukee?
Anywhere with live music. From Summerfest, to Chill on the Hill, local bars, to the little street fests that happen during good weather months. I love it all!
I was going to name a restaurant, but I am kind of a foodie and I can’t pick just one! 
Do you have any words of advice for other moms, especially new moms?
You are a bada**! It is hard to see it on some days, but it shows up in your kids. Your strength and dedication to being their mother is special. Be kind to yourself.
