Meet today’s CoChic Cool Chick Ashley Logan, founder, CEO and editor in chief of Yakkety Yak, a full-service content marketing company. Ashley is another friend I’ve had the pleasure of meeting through Creative Chics, a supportive community of women business owners. Ashley is not only a savvy, creative businesswoman; she is super sweet and personable, too. Read on for Ashley’s helpful insights into the importance of reaching your target audience for your business and why she loves being a business owner.

If you are new to CoChic Cool Chicks, every Monday I feature a woman entrepreneur who inspires me, who I am lucky enough to have in my girl boss network. These women are doing great things and whether you aspire to be an entrepreneur or not, I hope that they inspire you to do great things, too. I encourage you to check out their businesses, websites, and social media. And reach out to them, ask them questions, say hello. They’d love to hear from you!

Tell us about your business.

I am the CEO, Founder and Editor in Chief of Yakkety Yak Content Marketing. We are based in Chicago, but work with clients all over the country to help them reach their target audience.

Facebook; Instagram: Yakkety Yak and Ashley Logan; LinkedIn; Twitter

What made you decide to start your own business?

I have always had a passion for business, with the added benefit of being creative. Writing and art was my passion, but I wasn’t leaning on either medium to make a living. After working in corporate sales, and writing on the side, I decided it was time to make the switch. I went back to grad school at Northwestern University to earn a masters degree in journalism, while simultaneously starting Yakkety Yak. It was as much about combining those unique skill sets as it was creating the life I had always wanted.

What do you love most about being an entrepreneur?

Aside from controlling my own schedule and leading a team of highly talented writers and graphic designers, I love that I get to create a company culture that aligns with my values. That means being selective about with whom we work, setting a standard of excellence for our work product and going above and beyond for the clients that are so loyal to our organization.

What is the most challenging thing about being an entrepreneur?

When you are growing a small business you learn from trial and error. I am trying to limit the impact of the mistakes I make on my team, but also want to encourage us to push the limits. Finding that balance, and finding the right clients, is not always easy, but when we do, it pays off in droves.

What is your best piece of business advice?

For someone who is thinking about starting her own business, don’t let anything stop you. I truly believe that you land on your feet when you take risks. There is an amazing community of entrepreneurs in Chicago who are eager to share advice and point you in the right direction. Put yourself in the position to access those people and just go for it.

Do you have any tricks of the trade you could share with us?

No matter what field you are in these days, content marketing is vital for your brand and business. Make sure that you make time to share your story on a company blog and on social media. There is nothing more off-putting for potential customers than a website that hasn’t been updated, or a feed that hasn’t been tended to. Make it a priority for your business!

How would you describe your personal style?

Is Bohemian Chic a thing? Because I think that’s where I would fall. I love to accent comfortable, flattering clothing with accessories, including anything from scarves, hats, purses, chunky jewelry and shoes. I have a very feminine style, without being too Audrey Hepburn—which includes an addiction to Anthropologie.

What does being CoChic (comfortably chic) mean to you?

For me it’s all about dressing to complement my figure, while creating a look that works as a whole. Rather than drawing attention to one specific aspect of my outfit, I like for the outfit from shoes to hair to blend together. I love classic pieces and neutral colors, but use the accessories to tell the rest of the story. I am not afraid to mix a high end Theory suit with an H&M t-shirt.

Anything else you’d like to share?

When it comes to both personal style and business, having the confidence to just be yourself will resonate with everyone around you. Do what makes you feel good!

Thank you so much for featuring me today, Alyssa!

Thank YOU, Ashley! Loved your genuine business advice that applies to all industries. PS – Bohemian chic is totally a thing! 

Photography by Rife Ponce Photography