Q & A: Ashley X Danielle Massari - Owner of Sit Still Kids Salon
On Getting Organized, Morning Coffee And Words of Wisdom
First things first, tell the story of how we met.
I met you (Ashley) in the middle of the pandemic! I’d been house trapped for quite a bit of time (as was everyone), and was starting to feel claustrophobic in my home and in my life. I spend a considerable amount of time in the kitchen as a mother of three and reached out to the IG community to ask for recs for a local organizing genius. Quite a few people mentioned AKL! I looked you up and booked a consult immediately. What started as a kitchen reorg turned into a multiple-space project—utility closet, garage remodel, kitchen refresh. And then I hired AKL to organize my business space — Sit Still Kids Salon.
How has your organized space at home changed the way you operate your day-to-day life?
The kitchen was a crucial first step in helping me get my mind centered and cleared. It really has helped keep our space easily accessible (even to our little 5 year old). Our garage was a game changer for my husband and our older kids. With multiple sports, athletic equipment, seasonal decor and bikes, the smaller garage we have was a disaster and my husband used to spend hours trying to figure out how to tetris the whole thing. Once Ashley and her team arrived, it changed our lives and our garage became an extension of our home and a space we could enjoy.
What’s the secret sauce for your success?
Ha!!! There is no secret sauce. I’m always growing. I really focus on the details but also focus on making quick decisions. I’m also very nimble and can pivot at a moment's notice. When you own a small business, one day looks completely different from the next. Planning is important but being able to think quickly and efficiently is even more important.
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
Knowing that the first cup of coffee with vanilla creamer is waiting for me! It sounds so ridiculous but I truly look forward to the ritual, the taste, and the 30 minutes of quiet. The minute the house gets going, it is game on until I hit my pillow at night.
What’s on your dream project list?
For the business, expanding into other states. For myself, a whole home remodel! We’re talking about building from the ground up and picking everything down to the faucets in the sinks no one uses. All of it.
What’s one roadblock in being a small business owner?
One of the biggest roadblocks is hiring the right people! I believe in building teams that are supportive of each other and of me as the owner. I give my all to my teams and want to see them thrive. I have spent two years building and building and it feel like it’s never done. Hiring never ends! Finding the right talent to join the great group I already have, is a challenge. I am grateful for the team I have right now and am looking to add (the right) people to grow with!
What words of wisdom do you have for someone just starting?
Do not be afraid of failure. Do not compare yourself to anyone. Do not think you are alone in your fears and worries. Take time to celebrate you and your successes.
P.S. Ready to book a haircut for your kiddo? Find a Sit Still Kids Salon near you.