When Ashley Lindsey was pregnant, she visited Portsmouth, NH while her husband was doing training. She was surprised when she couldn’t find a baby boutique in the area. Towards the end of her pregnancy, Ashley was inspired to leave her nursing career and go back to school for business. And so Wild Monarch Baby was born!
To learn more about how she started her business, read below:
Name: Ashley Lindsey
Hometown: Claremore, OK
Current Duty Station: Portsmouth, NH
Q: Tell us about your business.
I started Wild Monarch while my husband was stationed in Portsmouth after being recalled to active duty from the reserves. We loved the area so much we wanted to stay, and I knew Portsmouth needed a baby boutique. Because of COVID, a local toy store, G Willikers offered me shared space and it has been wonderful! We sell specialty clothing ranging from NB-7Y, accessories, items for mom, and other baby necessities.
Q: What made you choose this type of business?
I love dressing my son up and I saw that it was need in the area!
Q: What motivated you to start your business?
I quit my nursing career after my son was born and utilized my husband’s GI benefits to go back to school for business. I saw the opportunity and knew I needed to take it!
Q: How do you manage the work/life balance as a military spouse?
When my husband was on orders I received a lot of help from a nanny who lived down the street from us, as well as my landlords who are very understanding.
Q: Any advice for fellow submarine spouses who want to start their own business?
If you see the need, do it! Introduce yourself to others in business and tell them your story. Apply for a business mentor through SCORE. They’re free and so helpful!
Q: Favorite thing(s) to do in your current duty station?
I loved going to the park and beach with our son while my husband was at work.
Q: Where can we support and learn more about your business?
You can find my products at G Willikers Toy Shoppe in Portsmouth, located at 13 Market Street. My website www.wildmonarchbaby.com will be launching soon, as well! You can follow me on Instagram @wildmonarchbaby.