We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Herman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When moving back to Dallas, I wasn’t sure where to turn to find a community of creatives. I could see the talent, the desire and the potential, yet I couldn’t discover a hub for likeminded artists-of all types-to come together to collaborate. I am also excited and want to highlight our mission to not only create a place where artists can flourish, but truly mentor creative types toward becoming self-sustainable in their careers. My most recent challenge was finding a second location for the business as it was growing exponentially and I wanted to achieve new heights. We just expanded into a larger location so we can offer even more services, such as acting classes, teen classes, commercial workshops, writing rooms, an extensive library and have currently built the momentum to begin production on projects that have been in the works the past year.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
For dining, I would first go to Beverley’s for an Aperol spritz, matzoh ball soup and Clifton Club for a glass of champagne after. Another night, I would visit Sister on Greenville as well as Mot Ha Bai and grab lunch from Jimmy’s Food Store. We would most likely see a movie at Alamo Drafthouse Cedars and catch a show or musical at Winspear. To perk up, we would grab some caffeinated beverages at LaLa Land and Halcyon and have a spontaneous writing session. For a workout we would burn our thighs at Bar Method White Rock Lake and have a calming walk around the Arboretum. I always have to stop by the Nasher Sculpture Center and then head to Bishop Arts to the Daisha Board Gallery for some of the best art in Dallas. We would also hop into Wild Detectives and then Dolly Python’s for the most fabulous curated vintage finds. For fun photos, I’d hop to The Rainbow Vomit Room and the lobby at the Virgin Hotel. Then have a calm day at the spa at the Joule! Wait, I have unlimited funds in this plan, right?!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are far too many family members, friends and mentors to name individually-and some I can’t due to NDA’s-but I have an enormous amount of appreciation and treasure them all. I discovered my love for acting at The Episcopal School of Dallas and got my first professional role from the Dallas Children’s Theatre, so these were pivotal in the beginning of my career. The Hollywood Improv transformed my career as a stand-up by giving me my first big break.

Website: www.belmontcollectivetx.com

Instagram: @belmontcollectivetx.com

Twitter: @hermieherm

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.