ANNOUNCING THE WOMAN OF THE MONTH

From the tranquil town of Mertzon, Texas, to the bustling heart of Fort Worth, Ashley Hickman’s journey is a testament to determination, resilience, and unwavering dedication. Her story is not just about personal triumphs but also about uplifting and empowering those around her.

Born and raised in Mertzon, Ashley’s early life was marked by the values of hard work and perseverance. These principles guided her through her academic pursuits, leading her to graduate from Tarleton State University in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Her passion for healthcare saw her working as an RN at a renowned children’s hospital in Dallas before returning to Fort Worth.

While juggling her demanding job, Ashley embarked on another academic journey to become a Family Nurse Practitioner at Texas Woman’s University. The challenges intensified when she welcomed her first child. Ashley describes this time further, “While finishing my last year in the program, I had my first daughter with my husband who we welcomed into the world 4 days before my final semester started. My professors, family, and friends all said I needed to take a step back and take time to heal and regain my footing prior to taking on the load of full-time student, mother, and nurse. Naturally, when people say It’s impossible to “do it all” I say, ‘watch this’.” 

Yet, with characteristic grit, she managed to attend lectures, care for her newborn, and complete her education. Ashley shares, “I remember running out into the parking lot to breastfeed my daughter between lectures, and the long days of strapping on my portable pump when making the drive back to Fort Worth and praying I wouldn’t get pulled over because, boy would that be awkward. But I made it.” The sight of her daughter’s joyous face while bouncing on her husbands’ knee on her graduation day remains one of her most cherished memories – a symbol of all the sacrifices and sleepless nights that culminated in that moment. Regarding her exact feelings in the moment, Ashley states, “I will remember this forever, and I hope she knows all the hours, sleepless nights, and days, that went into this very moment. I hope I make her proud.”

Today, Ashley is not just a dedicated healthcare professional but also a loving mother of two. Her six-year tenure as a Nurse Practitioner at Cook Children’s is marked by her unwavering commitment to her young patients. Ashley reflects, “I absolutely love my job helping the children and families of Fort Worth and its surrounding communities on a daily basis.” However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought unforeseen challenges for the community she holds dear to her heart. When COVID hit, there was a negative shift for Fort Worthians mentally and physically.

With compassion and Covid-fatigue setting in, the stress of the pandemic placed those Ashley came in contact with into a dark place. Ashley shares about her moment of introspect amidst the darkness, “This led me to late night discussions with my husband about how I could do more for our community with the skillset I worked hard to attain. I felt the calling to push myself to do more for our sweet community. Light needed to be cast. The epiphany hit. I answered the call to expand upon my responsibilities and efforts as a healthcare professional in order to be a light for the members of Fort Worth. I stumbled into the world of aesthetics, and when I did, I found my true calling.”

As a nurse injector, Ashley found herself connecting deeply with her clients, many of whom were grappling with the emotional aftermath of the pandemic. From her heart she states, “When I started my first job as a nurse injector, I found myself connecting with so many of the men and women that were sitting in my chair. Covid had reached so many of their families and put a dark cloud on so many of their hearts. I then realized it was my job to help break those walls of depression down and give them something to be positive about in their lives. I didn’t realize that I would not only be an injector, but also a confidant, therapist, and friend.”

Her role transcended mere aesthetics; it was about healing, empowerment, and rejuvenation for both Ashley and her clients. Ashley emphasizes, “This career that I have chosen for myself has brought a light back into my life that I didn’t even know had dimmed. After learning and working side by side and learning from the best injectors in the industry I decided that I wanted to start my own legacy- for myself, my family, and my patients.”

Recognizing the transformative power of her work, Ashley founded “Snug Aesthetics.” Through this venture beyond the injectables, facial exfoliation, skincare, and micro-needling Ashley states that she “aims to empower individuals who have been weighed down by life’s trials, offering them a renewed sense of confidence” and self-worth. More than a business, Ashley’s mission is clear: to be a source of light in Fort Worth, helping individuals rediscover resilience.

Ashley Hickman is not just an entrepreneur; she’s a community pillar. As the owner and injector of Snug Aesthetics, she brings over a decade of medical experience to the table. Her commitment to continuous learning, coupled with her dedication to her clients, sets her apart in the aesthetic industry. Beyond her professional achievements, Ashley is still an active Nurse Practitioner and is also member of her community, contributing to the Fort Worth Country Day school system fostering deep connections with those she serves.

What Ashley loves about Fort Worth is, as she describes, “the incredible support and empowerment among women, the profound sense of belonging, and the tight-knit community that feels like home.” Furthermore she describes Fort Worth as a haven for women supporting women. She states, “It’s awe-inspiring to witness the sisterhood that flourishes here, as women lift each other up, celebrate achievements, and champion one another’s success. In a world that sometimes feels competitive, Fort Worth reminds me that collaboration and support are the keys to empowerment.”

The sense of belonging in our city is palpable. Ashley describes, “From the moment I set foot in this wonderful city, I felt embraced by a warm and welcoming atmosphere that instantly made me feel like I had found my place in the world. The genuine smiles, friendly faces, and inclusive spirit create an environment where everyone feels valued and accepted, fostering a deep-rooted sense of belonging that is truly remarkable. The strong sense of community in Fort Worth is something that fills my heart with joy. There is an unbreakable bond among its residents, a sense of togetherness that is rare to find. In Fort Worth, community is not just a word, but a way of life that brings people closer and creates a deep sense of connection.”

Regarding her personal impact as a businesswoman on Fort Worth, Ashley uses the word ‘empowerment’. She shares about having the privilege to empower and instill self-confidence in the beautiful people of our community in more depth. “Just as my daughter’s smile during my graduation affirmed my path, I aim to inspire others to overcome challenges with renewed strength. Together, we’ll create a legacy that brightens lives and stands as a testament to the spirit of Fort Worth.”

In conclusion, Ashley Hickman’s journey is a shining example of resilience, determination, and the power of community. From her early days in Mertzon to her transformative work in Fort Worth, she has touched countless lives, offering hope, empowerment, and a renewed sense of purpose. In a city known for its vibrant spirit, Ashley stands out as a beacon of inspiration, embodying the very essence of Fort Worth’s community-driven ethos.

To contact Snug Aesthetics, visit them on instagram @ashleyh_fnp or e-mail info@snugaesthetics.com.