We are beyond to excited to introduce to you the bright entrepreneur and mom of two behind the small business venture bringing sunshine and rainbows to your kiddos, Ashley Franklin, founder of Loveheard Kiddos! Hailing from Gary, Indiana, Ashley connected with Chicago North Shore Moms “while looking for inspiring platforms that celebrate motherhood and entrepreneurship.” Suffice it to say she’s found the right outlet! We are so happy to spread the word about Ashley’s adorable and stylish hair bows. Get to know more about this joyful human and Lovehearted Kiddos, which was created not just as a business, but as a way to bring joy, creativity, and confidence to kids and their families. Welcome, Ashley!
Hi Ashley. Please introduce yourself and tell us about your family.
Hey y’all! I’m Ashley Franklin, the creative spirit behind Lovehearted Kiddos. Originally from Chicago, I now live in Gary, Indiana, and I’m all about bringing joy, creativity, and a little extra magic to kids and their families. I have two daughters, ages 8 and 5, who are the heart behind everything I do.
How did you connect with Chicago North Shore Moms?
I discovered Chicago North Shore Moms while looking for inspiring platforms that celebrate motherhood and entrepreneurship. Even though I’m based in Gary, Indiana, your content and community really resonated with me — it’s supportive, informative, and has a reach that truly extends beyond the North Shore.
Thank you so much – that is the very core of why we do what we do! What are one or two fun facts to know about you?
I’m writing a children’s book that’s very close to my heart. It’s called “The Incredi-BOW Powers of Addi and Amelia” and is a heartfelt and magical tribute to my daughters that celebrates sisterhood, bravery, and believing in your unique power.
I once flew from Chicago to NYC… just a 10-hour journey… for my 10-year wedding anniversary. Talk about a celebration in the sky!
You’re a ray of sunshine on your social media and I can’t wait for our moms to learn more about Lovehearted Kiddos. Gush away.
For me, becoming a mom completely changed my perspective on life. Suddenly, everything I did had a deeper purpose because I wasn’t just building something for myself anymore. I was building for them.
I started making bows as a creative outlet, something I could pour my love into while navigating the whirlwind of motherhood. But what started as a small passion project quickly turned into something bigger. When I saw how my bows made my own kids smile – how the bows gave them confidence, made them feel special and brought a little extra magic to their day – I realized I wanted to share that feeling with others.
That’s why I created Lovehearted Kiddos. Not just as a business, but as a way to bring joy, creativity, and confidence to kids and their families.
Tell us about your upcoming spring and summer collections.
I’m gearing up to drop some exciting new styles, including a 90s-inspired collection for Mother’s Day and summer. It’s all about bringing back bold, fun vibes with a modern twist.
As a small business owner, I noticed that you do a fab job managing your social media (@loveheartedkiddos) where your personality really shines through – any advice to our budding entrepreneurs out there?
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine—it’s your superpower.
Engage Genuinely: Building connections is key.
Keep the Vibes Positive: People are drawn to genuine, upbeat energy.
You recently collaborated with a clothing boutique in Valparaiso, IN called Pickles. What was that like, and are you looking for more collabs?
Yes! I recently teamed up with Pickles Kids, and it was such a fun experience! I’m always open to more collabs that align with the vibrant, creative spirit of Lovehearted Kiddos.
What is the good, the bad and the ugly of a small business
The Good: Watching kids transform with a little bow and a lot of confidence.
The Bad: Navigating the ever-changing world of social media algorithms.
So true, always a struggle! What’s next for Lovehearted Kiddos? Are you in any upcoming pop ups, trades shows etc?
Expect more pop-ups, exciting collaborations, and fresh collections that keep the magic alive. I’m excited for what the future holds for Lovehearted Kiddos and can’t wait to share every step of this journey with you all.
Thank you for being part of our journey—together, we’re spreading joy, one bow at a time!
About Our Meet a Mom Sponsor
A very heartfelt thank you to CNSMoms’ Meet a Mom sponsor, Lake Forest mom of three and owner of Gifford Law, a solo Estate Planning Firm (wills and trusts). Mary, we appreciate your support of local moms in our North Shore communities! Learn more about Mary by visiting her Meet a Mom spotlight here! Contact Mary directly here: [email protected].
