Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Robinson
Ashley, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started my journey in the hospitality industry at the age of 19, working for a popular chain restaurant. That experience gave me a strong foundation in customer service and operations, which I built on over the years. I’ve bartended, graduated from culinary school, opened and managed a restaurant, and eventually transitioned into managing a floral company.
Before the pandemic, I became a balloon artist for a Houston-based company, which allowed me to form meaningful relationships with clients who were celebrating at home. During that time, I realized I was driving repeat business and generating revenue for others, and it struck me that I could channel that same energy into building my own brand.
That’s how Seconds1st was born.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey hasn’t been without its struggles, and those challenges have shaped who I am today. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of standing up for myself and setting healthy boundaries—both with clients and in my own work-life balance. In an industry that thrives on nonstop energy, it’s easy to burn out, and I’ve had to be intentional about choosing ventures that genuinely make me happy and align with my passions.
Of course, like any entrepreneur, I’ve wrestled with the question: Is this going to work? Taking the leap to separate myself as both boss and employee was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made. It’s not easy to let go of the safety net of working for someone else and bet entirely on yourself. But I knew that if I didn’t take the risk, I’d never truly know my potential.
The reality of being a “starving artist” is real—especially when you’re just starting out—but so is my hustle. My motto has always been, “No Risk, No Lambo,” and I stand by it. Every step of the way, I’ve embraced the challenges as part of the process, and it’s been worth it to build something that feels so authentically mine.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Today, I bring over two decades of experience to the events industry, offering everything from crafting bespoke cocktail menus for private parties to designing large-scale balloon installations and immersive floral and décor experiences for intimate gatherings. My focus is on delivering personalized, seamless experiences, especially for smaller events with about 150 guests.
What I’m most proud of is my ability to adapt to any art form I take on. During any job or installation, I tend to black out in a sense. I put my head down, focus, and pour every ounce of myself into the work. It’s only once I’m finished, when I step back and take it all in, that I realize the full scope of what I’ve created. The fact that I can seamlessly “do it all” still amazes me. I’ve spent years honing my skills, and yet every time I step back and see the final result, it’s as if I’m experiencing it as a spectator—and it still blows me away.
Knowing I can adapt, innovate, and execute at such a high level across so many mediums is something I don’t take for granted. This ability to adapt gives me a unique edge. I’m not limited to one style or discipline, which means I can bring a fresh perspective and tailor my work to meet the needs of each client. I know I have the skills and creativity to make it exceptional. That adaptability is not just a skill—it’s the foundation of what makes Seconds1st stand out in a crowded industry.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
When it comes to luck, I’ll be honest—I don’t believe in it. What I do believe in is myself and the power of manifesting what I want in life and in my business. New moon manifestations are a real thing for me. I’ve always been a very determined person, which is both a blessing and a curse. I hold myself to an incredibly high standard, and while that drive pushes me to excel, it can also be tough to deal with at times.
But if I say I’m going to do something, I do it. That’s just who I am. I’m constantly speaking my goals and dreams out loud, putting them into the universe. If you don’t put your goals out there, how is anyone supposed to hear them and help you achieve them? Whether it’s a new skill I want to master, a project I want to take on, or a vision I want to bring to life, I believe in saying it out loud and making it real.
It’s not about waiting for things to happen—it’s about aligning your energy, putting in the work, and creating opportunities for yourself. That belief and determination has carried me through the hardest challenges and helped me build a business that feels authentic to who I am. Everything I’ve achieved has come from a mix of grit, intention, and a refusal to settle for anything less than what I know I’m capable of.
Pricing:
- No Budget is too small. However, I do have a minimum.
- Today’s price is not yesterday’s price. Floral pricing can change in the matter of hours.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://seconds1st.com
- Instagram: @seconds1st
