Meet Ashley Ratcliff Lundy | Owner & Chief Pin Curator, Poppy + Monarch

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

Hi Ashley, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
In short, my decision to start Poppy + Monarch stemmed from a blend of my personal experience as a multiple sclerosis (MS) thriver, a desire to make a positive impact by building a supportive community for chronically ill people, and a resilient mindset in facing life’s challenges.

Poppy + Monarch makes wearable flair (enamel pins, sweaters and tote bags) for the chronically chill and their cherished ones. My spoonie-centered enamel pins spark confidence and conversation so you can be your whole self in style. The business was established to help make the chronically ill community feel seen, heard, validated, represented, respected, understood, and accepted — all the things.

I was diagnosed with MS, an unpredictable autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system, in March 2018, and have since used my voice to advocate for fellow people living with chronic and invisible illnesses. What I’ve learned along my wellness journey is that I am not my illness. It informs who I am and how I operate in the world, but it’s not all of me. Yes, I’m sick, but I’m also hopeful, driven, quirky, and stylish.

I also wanted my brand’s name to be a subtle nod to MS with a deeper meaning. Poppies and monarch butterflies are two things native to California that bring me, a California girl, joy. They also happen to be two objects that are orange — the official color of MS awareness. Plus, poppy flowers are in bloom for a short season and the lifespan of a Monarch butterfly is just two to six weeks. That in itself is a reminder of the ephemerality of life, to be present and enjoy each moment to the fullest.

As a longtime collector of enamel pins (I lost count after 100), I wanted to make pins that speak to people like me: chronically ill but resilient, optimistic and lighthearted. I also wanted my pins to raise awareness and be conversation-starters for my customers to share about their illness, as well as allow their loved ones to show solidarity and support. I recognized a gap in the market for products that cater specifically to the chronically ill and their loved ones, and decided to fill it with my business.

Poppy + Monarch endeavors to empower this demographic, offering them a way to express their identity and experiences in a positive, stylish manner. Through Poppy + Monarch, I’ve aimed to create more than just a brand, but a community where individuals affected by chronic conditions are centered and encouraged.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What sets Poppy + Monarch apart from other pin businesses is its commitment to celebrating the chronically chill and their loved ones through thoughtful, playful, witty, and lighthearted designs. Note: “Chronically chill” humorously reclaims “chronically ill,” describing those with chronic conditions who uphold a relaxed, positive attitude. It symbolizes a lifestyle dedicated to relaxation, mindfulness, and self-care, despite health challenges.

Living with multiple sclerosis has deeply influenced my perspective, infusing both resilience and a unique understanding of our community into my brand. I’m most proud of creating a platform that not only spreads awareness about chronic conditions but also fosters a sense of belonging and joy. Poppy + Monarch’s range of enamel pins, sweaters, and tote bags are more than just products; they are symbols of solidarity and sources of pride in the face of adversity.

Getting to where the business is today wasn’t easy, and having just opened in October 2023, we have a lot to look forward to. Facing the physical and emotional challenges of MS while building a business has required perseverance and creativity. I overcame these hurdles by embracing my condition as a source of strength, not a limitation. This mindset, coupled with a passion for design and a desire to make a positive impact, has been crucial in navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship (solopreneurship, in my case).

The lessons I’ve learned are invaluable. Resilience is key, and humor can be a powerful tool in dealing with life’s challenges. Embracing your unique story can not only empower you but also resonate with and inspire others. It’s been said many times before, but patience really is a virtue. Crafting each pin takes time and care, and the process has taught me the value of patience. Every detail matters! Also, I keep reminding myself that I literally just opened for business. Things take time and I can’t rush God’s timing.

Another important lesson I’ve learned as a solopreneur is to answer when creativity calls. One of the things I love most about owning and operating Poppy + Monarch is having the flexibility to lean into my creativity. I find inspiration at random times, so when I get ideas, I make time to develop and iterate on them. Thank God for keeping my creative juices flowing. Lastly, I’ve learned that community matters. I couldn’t have a business without a community who sees the value in what I’m producing. The support and encouragement from my family, friends and customers have been overwhelming.

I want the world to know that Poppy + Monarch is more than a brand; it’s a message of empowerment, a testament to the strength of the human spirit, and a celebration of the beauty in our struggles. Poppy + Monarch exists to bring a smile, a moment of comfort, and a sense of community to those who need it the most.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Long Beach has been home for me since 2006, and I love it here. If my Bay Area-based best friend were visiting for a week, I’d craft an itinerary that blends the vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and unique experiences of Southern California. We would do a staycation at the Hyatt Centric at The Pike in Long Beach, where we’d be walking distance from the Aquarium of the Pacific and Shoreline Village. The Hyatt Centric has a boutique hotel feel with a lovely rooftop pool that has a bar. My bestie loves seafood, so we’d grab a bite at Gladstone’s and then check out the shops at The Pike.

We are professional thrifters, so we’d go down Fourth Street/Retro Row to shop. It’s a treasure trove for thrift enthusiasts.This eclectic strip is lined with vintage shops, offering everything from retro clothing to antique furniture. We’d spend hours rummaging through unique finds, especially stopping at La Bomba for its Pile Sale, followed by a snack at Little Coyote pizza.

For dinner, we’d hit up local favorites like The Attic for its Southern comfort food or Parkers’ Lighthouse for seafood with a view. Evenings would be for enjoying the vibrant nightlife, perhaps doing happy hour at Gaucho Beach or grabbing drinks at The Ordinarie Tavern.

Later in the week, we’d make the trek to San Marino to explore the Huntington Library and Gardens. We’d start early to make the most of this sprawling estate. The art collections and rare manuscripts in the library are a treat for the intellectually curious, and the various gardens are breathtaking. It really transports you around the world with its Chinese, Japanese and Australian gardens, among others.

We’d definitely have high tea at the Huntington’s Rose Garden, which also includes a variety of teas, sandwiches, champs (champagne, as we refer to it) and a lobster roll. Back in Long Beach, we’d make the obligatory stop at Roscoe’s for some chicken and waffles, and then venture out for drinks at The Plunge, located on the second floor of the 1900 Ocean Beach Club.

At some point, we’d venture out to Melrose ​​and spend the day exploring the eclectic thrift stores and boutiques, reliving that time I almost fainted outside of some shop in the heat of July many years ago. We would also make sure to go on a Sunday to pay the Melrose Trading Post at Fairfax High a visit. Then, we’d head over to our good friend’s apartment in West Hollywood for a lovely home-cooked dinner. He’s the best host — his place is always stocked with a full bar, has karaoke at the ready, and beautiful views from his fifth-floor expanse.

Throughout the week, we’d be sure to leave some room for spontaneous outings. We might even catch some farmer’s markets, local events or concerts. Although she loves the Bay, our weeklong jaunt throughout LA would remind her of Southern California’s laid-back life, rich cultural experiences, and stunning natural beauty. It’s the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable week with my bestie.

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?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to We Are ILL, an organization founded by Victoria Reese that supports, educates and empowers Black women living with multiple sclerosis. After my MS diagnosis, I felt alone because I didn’t know anyone who looked like me, and could relate to me, that also had MS. I had no frame of reference. Thankfully, social media led me to We Are ILL. I became a member of this vibrant community and soon was asked to join the team as its Director of Communications. Through We Are ILL, I’ve found my voice and realized that my vulnerability is someone else’s validation. I’m so proud of the work We Are ILL has done to make fellow Black women living with MS feel less alone, and equipped as they embark on their journey to finding their new normal after a devastating diagnosis. We Are ILL has been a light and community for so many women, and I know its impact will only grow stronger. I’m grateful to belong to such an amazing organization.

Website: poppyandmonarch.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poppyandmonarch/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyratcliff/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/poppyandmonarch

Image Credits
Photo credit: Brian Freeman on all photos except for the image of the three pins on the table and the sweaters and tote bags