How Working With Beyoncé Fueled Ashley Everett’s Moves Off the Dance Floor
There’s just something about splitting a bottle of wine with your friends after a long week that speaks to the soul. It’s exactly how I felt watching Ashley Everett, Lip Bar founder Melissa Butler and singer-actress Jordin Sparks have some socially-distanced girl talk for Barefoot Wine’s “We Stan for Her” series. Over the course of two videos, they delivered those simple but powerful gems we too often forget as creators—things like prioritizing self-care, supporting each other’s businesses and giving props to your support system.
For Everett, it’s staying close to family (“My mom has been with me through everything”) and regular salon visits (“The nails are always done”) that keep her grounded while balancing various ventures. In addition to being thee Beyoncé‘s Dance Captain, Everett is also the co-owner of phae, a comfy-chic line of loungewear and swimwear. Though dancing is what most people know her for, the unique experience of working for a living icon is partly what inspired her moves off the dance floor.
By the way, Everett was just a teenager (!) when she started her journey as a trusted member of Beyoncé’s creative circle.
“A few years into the industry, around the age of 21, I picked diversification by starting to work with varying artists in addition to Beyoncé. Becoming Dance Captain at 19 also gave me a push, as it gave me responsibility as a leader,” Everett told us.
“Beyoncé’s work ethic has been inspiring and pushed me to not be boxed in. I’ve been a sponge in her world. I’ve used every moment to absorb the lessons and insight and worked to apply those same principles for my life’s overall success and happiness. Watching her execute a project from vision to completion has allowed me to fill my toolbox with vast moments of reference and skills.”
Another benefit of her dance career thus far is learning how to balance multiple work projects. Though it’s a “constant work in progress,” she’s gotten pretty good at focusing on the task at hand without forgetting the other things that need her attention.
As for her advice to other creators building a brand? She says to “make sure that those you have involved in your business share the same vision and understand your goals to maximize opportunities and successes.” Teamwork makes the dream work! Check out the Barefoot Wine “We Stan for Her” series above.
Subscribe to the BlogHer newsletter for more tactical advice, exclusive content, and timely event updates.
