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Hidden Gems: Meet Ashtyn Smith of Handpicked and Chosen

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashtyn Smith

Hi Ashtyn, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
In 2023, my husband and I found ourselves in a season of waiting while longing for a child. I felt God’s calling over my life to fulfill my purpose, which is how Handpicked and Chosen was born. It brings me immense joy to see other babies wearing our clothes.

We hope that every person who wears our clothes (whether a child or adult) knows how loved and cherished they are. We want them to see that they are born with a purpose in life.While my husband and I may be in a season of waiting for our miracle baby, we understand that it is not in our timing but in God’s timing. For now, we are content being Aunty Ash and Uncle Tay-Tay.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As an entrepreneur, I can’t say that opening a brand has been easy, but I CAN say that God has opened all the doors to make it possible.Our name was different before finalizing our LLC, and we had already started manufacturing, and they had already made our tags. A devotional I did one night was about purpose, and it completely shifted my perspective. It sounds so bizarre, but I woke up my husband in the middle of the night and said, “I’m changing the name of the brand.” Through all of this, I found notes from a conference we had attended, and the words “chosen” and “purpose” were written on my notepad. I questioned whether this made sense, but God had shown me many signs. I couldn’t doubt it.

As business owners, we wear so many hats; honestly, we always encounter struggles along the way. Ensuring you have the right help guiding you is critical. It makes those hurdles a lot easier to overcome.One of my biggest challenges is having a kids brand without having kids. I have often asked, “What am I doing?” But God has shown me WHY every single time. I can’t tell you that it gets any easier, but it does make me hopeful for the future, and I do get excited to know that one day I will have my little blessing wearing one of our outfits, too!

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Handpicked and Chosen ?
As a private-label children’s viscose bamboo brand, we take pride in our unique customization process. Every design, from start to finish, is tailored to meet your specific needs, making you and your little ones feel special and valued.

We work directly with our manufacturers to design the perfect finished product, from picking colors to the proper patterns and sizing. Always ensuring the use of quality material to completing quality control checks.

Our quality and mission set us apart from others by sharing the word of Christ through our faith-based designs. We even have pieces with Jesus written on the outside. Our current sizing offers newborn to kids 7-8, and we are excited to add more soon, along with adult pieces.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
In 5-10 years, I see Handpicked and Chosen in a major retail store, expanding its reach to local communities and becoming a staple in family fashion. I’d like us to collaborate with other brands that positively influence society, creating meaningful partnerships. We hope families can dress in matching outfits from head to toe with our designs. The brand will grow as a symbol of connection and values, reaching more households while staying true to its inspiring message.

Pricing:

  • $36 is what our pieces cost for rompers or 2 piece sets

Contact Info:

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