WAGS Work: Ashley Livingston

Aug 17

The WAGS Work Series aims to show our readers that we are more than the stereotypes you might be familiar with--we're creative, hard-working, driven, and willing to do whatever it takes to make this lifestyle work. We also hope to inspire women in all walks of life to get creative and think outside the box when it comes to working and creating the lives of their dreams. Please reach out to the women featured in this series if you have questions or want to learn more about what they do.

TELL US WHO YOU ARE, HOW YOU GOT INTO THE BASEBALL WORLD, AND A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOU AND YOUR HUSBAND.

Hi, My name is Ashley Livingston, My husband is Zac Livingston. He is a minor league coach with the Seattle Mariners. We have been with the Mariners for 6 years now.

We have been married since January 2014 and have 3 beautiful children Grace (6) Luke (4) and Levi (2). They definitely keep us very busy.

TELL US ALL ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS, WHAT DO YOU DO, AND HOW LONG YOU’VE BEEN WERKIN’ IT.

I am a family photographer in the state of Arizona. I started my business less than a year ago and feel that I have already grown and learned so much in both photography and business management.

I am always excited to meet new families and have a little fun while capturing their current stage in life.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU/HOW DID YOU GET STARTED?

After leaving my previous job of over 10 years as a dental assistant to be home with our kids, I finally decided to take my photography hobby to the next level. I want to show my kids that if you have a dream and work toward your goals anything is possible.

HOW DO YOU BALANCE WORK AND LIVING THE BASEBALL LIFE?

Our family is very fortunate to be home and together 95% of the time during baseball season. This gives me the chance to schedule sessions on the off days. As we all know, baseball schedule can be very unpredictable. We are also lucky to have lots of help from family when my husband is away.

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HOW DID STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS IMPACT YOUR LIFE PERSONALLY, AND FOR THE TWO OF YOU?

Starting my own business has been a huge relief on our family. With my husband working long hours at the field, it allows me to create the schedule I want and be flexible for our family. That means we do not have to worry about who’s going to be watching the kids, who has school drop off and pick up, Dr. appointments etc.

Being able to create your own schedule is a dream for any family with young kids.

WHAT’S A TYPICAL WORKDAY LIKE FOR YOU IN THE SEASON? IN THE OFF-SEASON?

Day to day I have the typical stay-at-home mom life. Wake up, get the kids ready and off to school. Make sure they have all they need through out the day.

We try to get out of the house as much as possible, a baseball game here and there, visiting their grandparents farm, or meeting up with friends.

WHAT’S BEEN THE HARDEST PART SO FAR? WHAT’S BEEN THE BEST?

The hardest part of having my own business is finding the time to edit and create content while being home with kids. I am usually up late working after kids are in bed.

The best part is meeting so many wonderful families and having fun with them at their session.

WHAT ARE YOU CURRENTLY WORKING ON AND WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

I am currently working to grow as a business owner. Figuring out what works best to manage work flow, communication with clients, and financial book keeping.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER WAGS WHO HOPE TO START A SERVICE-BASED BUSINESS?

My advice to anyone thinking of starting their own business is to just do it. It can be so scary and you may never feel ready enough but that’s the beauty of learning as you grow and one day you can say I did it!