Dare to Dream: The Bellamy Co. Origin Story

Traveling on a whim, going on a pilgrimage, and taking a dip at a local river are normal occurrences for Ashley, the heart and soul behind The Bellamy Co. But, believe it or not, her life wasn’t always a breathtaking adventure. 

If you’re like most aspiring women entrepreneurs, you have this big idea that no one else truly believes but you. You believe where you are right now is not where you should be. And what you’re doing is not fulfilling your purpose. 

Ashley was in your shoes a mere six years ago, feeling trapped in a story written for her. But, like you, she had this big idea, and she dared to dream.

Ashley’s heart to serve and desire to see the world

Ashley started her journey with a heart to serve and a desire to broaden her horizons. Her longing to experience different cultures, be a positive force, and discover her path led her to enlist in the military at the age of 17. 

"My introduction into the military was marked by a pivotal moment in history: graduating from basic combat training just two days after the September 11 attacks. This event underscored the inevitability of war in my journey, but far from deterring me, it sharpened my resolve." Ashely shares as she recalls how she started. 

Accepting the inevitability of war, Ashely volunteered for deployment. Being young and child-free, she saw it as more fitting than someone with a family. Her first deployment lasted 18 months, followed by a brief break and another 12-month deployment.

The unexpected career trajectory

The second stint of Ashley’s deployment proved to be life-changing. She sustained severe injuries, leading her to a whirlwind of multiple surgeries. Her recovery required her to change her career path, reshaping her trajectory.

In the ensuing years of treatment, Ashley immersed herself in recruitment, retention, and, eventually, marketing and advertising, unveiling unforeseen passions.

"I pursued and completed my business administration-marketing degree, applying my newfound knowledge first to state-level marketing initiatives before expanding my influence as the marketing and advertising chair over the region of six states and ultimately over the 54 states and territories," Ashley said, reflecting on her military career. 

At this moment, Ashley discovered her innate knack for refining and enhancing operations and business strategy. It was effortless for her. It's as if her subconscious mind knew before she realized it. But what resonated with her and sparked joy was creating an environment for success.

Ashley continued, "There's something profoundly fulfilling about coaching, mentoring, and leading individuals toward their goals, guiding them to transcend their perceived limits." This part of her career allowed her to witness the power of dedicated guidance and support.

Ending 18 years of military service

Leaving the military wasn't on Ashley's initial plan. Her career progression was swift and filled with accolades. Every recognition and promotion made her believe the military was her calling, though it stirred tensions among her peers. She disregarded rivalry, understanding that leadership transcends mere popularity, focusing instead on creating meaningful impact.

After 18 years of service, Ashley embodied the "epitomized" version of success. She was on top of her career, recognized in her field, and had built two homes in her early twenties. Anyone would see her as a success. Yet, not once did she stop and ask herself, "Am I happy with my accomplishments?"

"The turning point came with Brené Brown's "The Power of Vulnerability." This book challenged my ingrained perceptions of vulnerability and emotion as weaknesses. As I began dismantling the layers of conditioning, a stark realization dawned on me: the true essence of who I was, devoid of military accolades and camouflage, didn't align with the military's path. Shedding this armor, it became evident that continuing down my military path was akin to forcing a square peg into a round hole—a pursuit I was no longer willing to engage in."

After this hard realization, Ashley decided to retire early. It seemed like a crazy idea, especially since she was two years away from a full retirement, but she knew it was time to explore life beyond its confines. 

Saying goodbye to something she had held on to for so long was difficult. Yet, she was grateful for the upbringing and discipline the military provided.

Transitioning from duty to desire

Armed with experience and skills, Ashley was ready to explore new territory. Her desire to serve resurfaced, leading her to a new opportunity. Ashley volunteered for an NGO at a refugee camp in Greece, providing essential aid to refugees. 

"This experience, rich in human connection and impact, introduced me to a tech startup volunteer from Israel and Los Angeles. My innate skills in operations and logistics soon found a new application, catapulting me from the shores of Greece to the tech scene in LA.", Ashley says as she shares her experience. 

However, her newfound adventure was nipped in the bud by the onset of COVID-19. The world stopped when the pandemic happened, but Ashley was among the first few to get moving. Undeterred by the challenges, she pivoted with resilience and determination, seizing opportunities amidst uncertainty.

After returning home to Wyoming, an opportunity presented itself. Ashley became a consultant for a mental wellness company, which gave her flexibility and purpose while she was expecting her daughter Bellamy. Her work allowed her to help startups flourish while she managed her personal life and embraced motherhood.

"Consulting, for me, is more than a career. It's a continuation of my journey to serve now by empowering startups to navigate their challenges and achieve success."

Ashley's mornings are filled with anticipation, eagerness, and joy for new adventures. Her obligations no longer fuel and guide her decisions. Instead, she follows her passion. This shift wasn't only about changing locations but a total transformation. She embraced a life driven by desire rather than duty. 

Creation of The Bellamy Co.

Ashley's consulting time allowed her to live life the way she wanted. With her partner, Jason, and daughter, Bellamy, she traveled the world and embodied her true definition of success.Their family's journey, documented in their channel, "Chasing Weather and Wifi," has sparked curiosity worldwide. 

People often ask, "How can both Bellamy's parents work from home and still spend every day together?" or "How do you manage family life across different time zones, balancing travel, adventure, parenting, and work?" 

Behind these questions lies a strong desire for a similar lifestyle. Yet, many women feel held back, generally believing they lack the necessary skills. This is a common sentiment Ashley observed. 

Women worldwide long for freedom! They want to be unbound from the constraints of traditional society and break free. However, they often feel trapped, confined, and limited by their circumstances. 

"My response to them is always framed by encouragement and empowerment, aiming to show that with the right mindset and resources, crafting a life that harmonizes work, family, and adventure is within reach for anyone willing to embark on the journey.", Ashley shares her take on this problem. 

It takes a supportive community to thrive.

The widespread issue of women undervaluing their skills, doubting their potential to monetize them, and believing they lack marketable skills dawned on Ashley. It was a challenge she wanted to address. Until, one day, in the middle of a transatlantic cruise, a big idea hit her.

“Energized by this realization, I found myself waking up at 4 am, filled with ideas that rapidly evolved into a solid business plan, leading to the creation of The Bellamy Co. My mission was clear: to help women recognize the value of their skills and navigate the entrepreneurial journey, which is inherently unique and without a one-size-fits-all blueprint for success."

Ashley believed that supporting women entrepreneurs was a lot like raising a child. Just as it takes a village to raise a child, it also takes a supportive community to thrive as an entrepreneur without burnout. In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Africa, The Bellamy Co. was founded to be that empowering village.

You, too, can redefine your success.

From her humble beginnings in the military to her soul-searching moments of vulnerability, Ashley's path is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. She didn't let society define her. Instead, she listened to the whispers of her heart and followed her passion.

Now, as the founder of The Bellamy Co., Ashley's mission is clear: to empower women to recognize their value and navigate the unique challenges of entrepreneurship. Just as she found her calling in serving others, she invites you, fellow moms, women, entrepreneurs, and creatives, wherever you are in life, to dare to dream alongside her.

As we end, we leave you with a simple question: Do you dare to dream? If your answer is a resounding YES, The Bellamy Co. will support your journey toward fulfillment, purpose, and success.