We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Bourque and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
As a parent of 3 little ones – I have come to learn that our children are sponges. They absorb every thing we say and do, and those they come into contact with as well. We have to be the type of people we want THEM to be. Kind, compassionate, brave, self starting, honest. loyal, etc. It’s hard to remember that in the moment 100% of the time, but I think as a business owner, they get to see all of those qualities come out. They get to see you interact with people as a kind, honest person, and develop those relationships with your client. I am proud of the work I do, and I am proud to be a mom. I am thrilled that they will get to grow up with two loving, small business owning parents, who will teach them the freedom of business ownership, the struggles of that, and passion for hard work.
 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career is ever changing in this industry. As an event planner, you become a hand holder, a tear wiper, a stain remover, a project manager, a detail remember, a secret keeper, and you have to do it all with a smile. I love wearing all of those hats and being all of those things, but the challenge as a smallm business owner, is that you have to be all of those things, all of the time, while also managing your own life, relationships, and household. I would not trade this life for anything, and i am so thankful i get to do what i love, while creating relationships with our clients, and making their special day that they’ve always dreamed of come to life.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
OMG – well Nashville is QUITE the scene and there is no shortage of fun things to do. Here is a fun itinerary for the week.

DAY 1:
Arrival/Hotel Check In – highly recommend the Virgin Nashville or Noelle
Dinner with a stunning view at Bourbon Steak

DAY 2:
Breakfast at Pfunky Griddle in Berry Hill
RCA Studio B Tour on Music Row – there is also a great coffee shop around the corner called Osa. Country Music Hall of Fame tour from there with a Hatch Show Print Hands on Printing Press Tour.
Dinner at Little Hats

DAY 3:
Free time during day to relax or explore – Take in Broadway during the day for drinking and music and enjoy lunch or dinner at 5th & Broad / Assembly Food Hall
Try to get tickets to a show at Bluebird Cafe
Take photos at the “I believe in Nashville mural” in 12 south, and walk around the area. Check out Sevier Park, Frothy Monkey, and Five Daughters Donuts
Make your own chocolate bars at a GooGoo Cluster class
House of Cards Dinner

DAY 4:
Breakfast at Monells
Drive through downtown Franklin for a quaint town with great shopping and food – Merridees, 55 South, and Puckett’s are some favorites
Drive through Belle Meade and soak in all the beautiful homes, if you feel up to it, check out the Belle Meade Plantation for a tour, or wine, or whiskey tasting, or ice cream! OR Cheekwood Botanical Gardens for a walk to see all of the beautiful floral gardens, and historical mansion.

DAY 5:
Lunch and a Show on the General Jackson Showboat
Dinner at Aquarium (Inside Opry Mills Mall)
Show at Grand Ole Opry

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My TEAM! I literally couldnt not pull off 20+ events a year, while being a full time parent without their support, dedication, and hard work. They are incredible and have stood by me in the highs and lows of this career.

Also, my husband, who is the best partner, father, and supporter of this business. If he isnt being a full time dad, he is working on HIS craft, or helping me with mine. I couldnt ask for anyone better.

Website: www.silvercelebrationsnashville.com

Instagram: @silvercelebrations

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/silvercelebrations

Image Credits
John Myers, Franzi Annika, Jess Amerson, Erin Fox, Allie Chambers

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutTennessee is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.