Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Miller.
Ashley, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Do you ever have a certain outfit in mind that you want to wear but you can’t seem to find it anywhere? Or a certain accessory that you know would be perfect for accentuating a sometimes boring outfit? This is exactly how my company was started. I work as a hairstylist in downtown Fort Worth and I love to be creative with my fashion. I kept searching for the perfect hat, at the right price point for my budget. I decided to purchase a hat that I knew I would wear and distress and torch it myself. I posted the hat on my Facebook just as a kind of, “Hey look what I made” and everyone seemed to LOVE the hat. I would have never thought in my wildest dreams to create a company selling my distressed hats if it weren’t for a co-worker, Heather, who wanted to purchase one herself. She among others were flooding my inbox with their orders and it literally went from there. The first two weeks I believe I made around forty five hats. The support I have received through the beauty industry and women across Texas, South Carolina, and Tennessee have been nothing short of amazing. I’ll ship hats anywhere! These hats are made for every woman. Working, at home, casual or dress up- there’s a hat just for you. Most hat are custom ordered but I do keep a few on hand and I’m always working on them. I’ve added a few to the collection these past few months that are vintage and the goal is to be able to hand-make all of the hats as well. I encourage anyone that has an idea to go with the flow and put all of your energy into your craft. Keep a look out on Instagram @TORCHED.N.TEXAS for some new hats coming this spring!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
In the beginning, it was very overwhelming because I had so many orders that I was considering hiring an assistant. I work as a hairstylist first, so with a full time job with a family to take care of as well. I was up many late nights creating new hats. Since the COVID19 pandemic, my business has slowed down but the few that are able to support me, it has been amazing. I cannot thank my customers enough for choosing my small business to support at a time like this. Selling one hat a week puts groceries in our home and helps me provide for my daughter. Even if I don’t have any purchases, going on to my Instagram or Facebook and liking and sending in a great review helps get the word out. As a small business I joined forces with the #Fortworth20 giveaway and donated a hat for one lucky winner during this time. Each entry was able to explain their story of how the pandemic has affected them and we chose a winner. It’s amazing to be a part of a community that gives back.
Please tell us about your company.
Torched.N.Texas is a company that prides itself not only on being a small woman owned company but a business that continues to give back as well. We specialize in distressed hats that can be paired with a dressy or casual outfit to add that little bit of flair! What’s most unique is that every hat is torched and distressed in its unique way, making every hat different and not manufactured to be the same. I’ve started to burn initials and sayings into the hats as well, so you can get even more customization. Check out @Torched.N.Texas on Instagram and Facebook to see some examples!
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
Luckily, my day job at Novak Hair Studios has been my biggest support! Almost every stylist in the salon has ordered a hat from me. They’re all my walking advertisements and with that many people wearing your hats and taking clients, the word about Torched.N.Texas has spread very quickly. I love making these hats for stylists because there is something unique about someone who does hair- they’re so creative- and so supportive to other stylists. I couldn’t have asked for a better community of women to support me. They are my good luck charms.
Pricing:
- $75 is the cost for a basic distressed hat
- $150 is the cost for a name brand or vintage hat (Stetson)
- $100 for custom stitching done @sustainable_beauty_
Contact Info:
- Phone: 8434947123
- Email: TorchedNTexashats@gmail.com
- Instagram: @torched.n.texas
- Facebook: @torched.n.texas
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