The Heart Behind Goodlady Atelier

Hi friends! I am Ashley Richards, the founder and creative force behind Goodlady Atelier, a custom dress and tailoring business. At 36 years old, I have built a life and career that combine my love for creativity, my dedication to family, and my unwavering passion for helping others feel confident and beautiful. I am from humble beginnings as a self-taught tailor to running my own successful business. My journey is a story of perseverance, passion, and purpose.

As a proud mother of three boys, I have mastered the art of juggling roles. Whether it’s sketching designs late at night or running my sons to basketball practice, l approach every aspect of my life with determination and love. Motherhood has taught me patience and resilience, qualities that have translated seamlessly into my business. I credit my parents and boys for inspiring me to dream big and stay grounded, even in the face of challenges.

 “Being a mother isn’t just about raising kids—it’s about showing them that anything is possible when you work hard and believe in yourself.”

My tailoring journey began as a personal challenge. As a young girl I did not have the means to have the best clothes and shoes. So with the help of my grandmother I started creating the clothes that I wanted. No real understanding of garment construction, just a feeling. I  attended a  formal fashion schools for a year before I realized that I knew more from my years of trial and error than what they could teach me ; instead, I taught myself the craft through books, online resources, and countless hours of practice.

In the early days, I made clothes for myself, friends and family, learning from every mistake and refining my skills. Over time, my dedication paid off, and I gained the confidence to start creating custom pieces for clients. My story is a testament to the idea that passion and perseverance can pave the way to expertise.

 “Every stitch, every pattern was a lesson learned. I loved the process, even when it was tough.”

I founded Goodlady Atelier to bring a personal, handcrafted touch to tailoring. My goal was simple yet profound: to empower people through clothing. Every design at Goodlady Atelier is a reflection of my belief that fashion is more than just fabric—it’s a form of self-expression and confidence.

My values of generosity, care, and focus guide every decision in my business. I take the time to understand my clients’ needs, ensuring that every piece created not only fits perfectly but also tells a story.

Goodlady Atelier stands out in a world of mass production by offering bespoke designs tailored to each individual’s personality and style. My hands-on approach ensures that every detail is meticulously crafted, from fabric selection to the final stitch.

Clients often praise me for my ability to listen and translate their ideas into reality. Whether it’s a custom gown, a perfectly tailored suit, or a dress for a special occasion, My creations are designed to make my clients feel truly unique.

My journey hasn’t been without challenges. From the early days of struggling to master tailoring techniques to the complexities of running a business, I have faced it all with a spirit of determination.

I attribute my resilience to my upbringing and the support of my family. My ability to stay motivated, even during tough times, is rooted in the love for my work and my clients.

 “When you believe in what you’re doing, every obstacle becomes a stepping stone.”

My generosity extends beyond the business. I am passionate about giving back to her community by mentoring young women and men who aspire to enter the fashion industry. 

My work also reflects her caring nature, as I ensure that my designs are accessible and inclusive for all body types and personal styles.

I have big dreams for Goodlady Atelier. I envision expanding my business to include a full-service boutique while continuing to offer my signature custom designs. I am also exploring the idea of launching workshops and online tutorials to inspire others to learn tailoring and pursue their creative passions.

 “This is just the beginning. I want Goodlady Atelier to be a place where everyone feels welcome and celebrated.”

To her clients and supporters, I share my gratitude:

 “Goodlady Atelier wouldn’t be what it is today without the trust and support of my amazing clients. Every piece I create is a collaboration, and I’m honored to be part of your stories. Thank you for believing in my vision and allowing me to do what I love every single day.”

With talent, drive, and heart, I am not just a tailor—I am a creator of confidence and a true inspiration to everyone around me.