We’re looking forward to introducing you to Mrs. Ashley Rigaud. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Ashley, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A typical day for me starts with taking care of myself and my home. Once my daughter is settled, I shift into full work-and-mom mode—diving into client emails, mapping out goals, and planning the next steps to keep everything moving forward.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Ashley Rigaud is the founder of Dear Phoenix Project Management, a company built on structure,
strategy, and soulful execution. The name Dear Phoenix is personal — it’s named after her daughter,
Phoenix Rigaud — and represents Ashley’s commitment to legacy, leadership, and building systems
that elevate both business and life. Ashley brings a powerhouse background to the table. Her career
began in the fashion industry, where she worked with top-tier celebrities and organizations, including
the Carolina Panthers. She went on to lead as Store Director for True Religion, driving over $1 million
in revenue, and later served as Operations Manager for Kendra Scott, where she refined her
expertise in operations, team leadership, and customer experience. In addition to project management,
Ashley is the founder of Ash & Ley Co (formerly Vanguard House), a boutique marketing agency that’s
been helping entrepreneurs and businesses grow their brands since 2017. You can follow her creative
work at @ashandleyco on Instagram. Ashley is currently earning her Bachelor’s degree in
Psychology and plans to pursue her Master’s, with a long-term vision of supporting people and
systems from the inside out. She also holds a Project Management Certification from Columbia
University, allowing her to merge academic training with real-world business leadership. At Dear
Phoenix, Ashley helps clients rise through clarity, execution, and deeply personalized project and
administrative support — because when the foundation is strong, everything else can grow.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
When I landed my very first client as a fashion stylist and marketing professional, I was still young and learning the ropes of the industry. I didn’t have all the answers, but I had drive, creativity, and a strong eye for detail. Every project became an opportunity to sharpen my skills, build relationships, and prove myself. Through consistency and passion, I began making a name for myself, gaining recognition for not only my styling but also my ability to bring fresh, marketable ideas to the table.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
You don’t have to have it all figured out right now, every step you take, even the ones that feel uncertain, is shaping you into the strong, capable woman you’re becoming. Be proud of yourself in the process.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
One cultural value I’d say is worth protecting at all costs is respect for community and connection, honoring where you come from, uplifting others, and making sure no one feels unseen. It’s about protecting the idea that we rise together, not alone.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
With my family! I love the life I have built for myself and I look forward to expanding that.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @ashandleyco
