Ashley Ruff | Image Maker

Photo by John Fowler

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Ashley, the gifted graphic designer, photographer, and blogger behind the Image to Impact name, is getting ready to take the next big step—establishing and launching an online stationary shop catering to those who crave unique customized stationary and invitations or a portrait package for any occasion. With a new blog/website already in the works, Ashley would like nothing better than to sell her stationary and artwork at a few boutiques in the area, with a long-term goal of owning her own storefront offering coffee and tea and a great atmosphere for women to hang out in.“ I'm taking a leap of faith to get my business up and running,” she says. “But I'm excited to see what the next year will bring!”

More about Ashley…

Hometown: Prosperity, SC

Tell us a little about what you do: I have a passion for all paper goods, inks, color, nature and life.  I use all these things to create work that inspires others. I own a graphic & stationery design company, specializing in wedding stationery and custom stationery.  I also am a photographer who loves people.  I focus mainly on portraits, engagements, bridals and weddings. I'm also a blogger  (www.imagetoimpact.blogspot.com).

Are you involved in any charities or volunteer work? Yes - I'm a volunteer at Newspring Church and I work with the special needs during services.

Did you graduate college? Yes - Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC – 2007.

Single or Married? Married to Evan Ruff.

Children? No.

Any pets? My puggle, Max, and my hubby's cat, Jada :)

Hobbies? Making jewelry, collecting cards, crafting, DIY, visiting art shows and galleries, cooking.

Favorite thing you do to relax: Read Real Simple or Martha Stewart Living or blogs.

Your best friend says that you are… fun, quirky, artsy, a Diet Mountain Dew lover.

Do you have a motto or quote that means something to you? "You didn't exit the womb with your intended career tattooed on your chest. No printout of innate skills accompanied your birth. But as life progressed, you began noticing your gifts. Skills, revealed, Knacks, uncovered. God gave those." ~Anonymous

Who do you look up to as role models? Jessica Hische - designer & illustrator, Nicole Balch - stationery & graphic designer, shop owner and fantastic blogger.

Goals for the future: Establish and launch a more detailed website, be in the forefront of the blogging world, and eventually get accepted into the National Stationery Show. 

THREE things most people don’ t know about you?:
1. I'm an avid twitter user : follow me! (www.twitter.com/imagetoimpact)
2. If I'm in a bad mood, my husband sends me to Target to read/look at cards.  It always changes my mood :)
3. I've visited every state in the US except Washington & Minnesota.  Took a trip in high school around the US and slept under the stars each night.