If you know me at all, then you’re well aware of my entrepreneurial spirit and the special connection I feel to others who have been bitten by the business-building bug. There is something so rewarding about creating a business—whether on your own, with a spouse, or with a wonderful team—and then watching it grow into something that others can love too.
That is exactly what happened with the needlepoint company Asher Riley. Husband-and-wife team Virden and Elle Hargrove established the company in Birmingham, Alabama, in 2012 and have been bringing classic, preppy looks to the South ever since in the form of belts, wallets, bags, coasters, cuffs, and more.
“When you have a passion for something in life it doesn’t matter how hard you work if you love it. My husband and I love working together, and we really complement each other in our different skill sets,” Elle explains.
The name of the company was derived from the couple’s youngest son, Asher, and their golden retriever, Riley. The Hargroves originally sold belts made from silk ties and soon added cotton twill and seersucker belts to their repertoire.
“We were really drawn to the Ivy League, preppy look for men,” Elle says, “But within a couple of months we found a different niche, which would open doors to even more product development: needlepoint.”
Some of Asher Riley’s customizable accessories and creative needlepoint designs.
You are no doubt familiar with my love for customization, usually in the form of monogramming, so I especially appreciate the fact that each and every Asher Riley product can be customized in some way. That includes needlepoint belts, wallets, flasks, dog collars, cuff bracelets, key fobs, coasters, tote bags, pillows, sunglasses straps, watch straps, and hats—all designed by Virden, who Elle admits is the one with the aesthetic eye.
“He is the cautious one, great with numbers and research. I am the risk taker, social media, and marketing girl,” Elle says.
With this couple’s high quality of products and joy of working together in the business they love, it’s no wonder shops all across the South are offering the Southern-style staple Asher Riley. If you’re looking for a lovely customized gift, they’re a great go-to.
Do you have an entrepreneurial spirit? I would love to hear more about what inspires you.