The Genesis of Iron Range Events
We care deeply about our community, but also never really know how to get involved. We want to support local events that align with our values, but can’t when we don’t know they exist. We want to do more than wander through Menards or Target and wish for something more to do. In the last few years we have become friends with a couple of people that seem to consistently be doing fun, amazing things locally, and I always wonder, “wait, why didn’t I know about that?!” It can be so frustrating trying to find events on social media, and reading flyers at the library only offers so much.
So we thought, “what if everyone actually had access to all of the events going on locally - in one central place? What would be the best way to reach all kinds of people - across generations, socio-economic backgrounds, cities, etc?” And after ages of thinking and talking, an email newsletter/website seemed like the best option (we are also working on partnering with local papers to get the events in print).
As we were ruminating on all of these ideas, life took a turn that was going to require Ashley to start working (read more about Ashley below). She could go out and get a normal job, or she could endeavor to build the resources she desperately believed the Iron Range needed. And so, here we are! Childcare was secured (thanks mom and dad) and Ashley got to work starting Iron Range Events.
We aren’t just excited for getting the word out so that people can have something to do. We are absolutely convinced that this resource will also be marvelous for other local businesses! More awareness equals more attendance, which equals more investment - relationally and financially across the Iron Range. Together we can build community across the Iron Range, strengthen families, and support the local economy! GOSH, we needed this yesterday, but today will have to do!
About the Owner:
Ashley is a stay-at-home-mom who loves reading, board games, crafting, and spending time with her family at her parents hobby farm. She is a major introvert until you get to know her, and then she rarely stops talking. She stinks at small-talk, but thrives in conversations about things that really matter. She helps run children’s ministry at her church, and also loves throwing baby showers. She grew up in Makinen and currently lives in Eveleth with her marvelous husband, Matthew, (who’s much more introverted than she is) and their two-year-old son who is crazy extroverted and adventurous.
Because Ashley is a stay-at-home-mom running this business a couple days a week, her hours are irregular and sometimes unpredictable (since toddlers are both irregular and unpredictable). She will do her best to respond in a timely manner, but sometimes potty-training fiascos and toddler-induced back injuries delay her ability to respond. She's doing her best, and that's good enough for us.*
*us refers to "the royal us" since I started Iron Range Events and am the only employee . . . but I like to pretend my husband and I are writing it together (he’s the moral support of the business, after all). Plus, writing it in 3rd person definitely feels more professional (is it?).
Absolutely Random (and useless) Facts About Ashley:
Matt and I were high-school sweethearts and got married in 2018
In 5th grade our teacher took us into a neighboring classroom so we could watch the Virginia library burn down
While (briefly) living in India, I once drove a rickshaw through our alley (I drove so slow all of my friends laughed at me)
As a teenager, I was obsessed with riding lawnmowers and had Cub Cadet brochures taped up in my room (why?!)
I once rode a movie-star camel (I’m pretty lucky like that)
