JWC Media
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By Morgan Hogerty
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA PONCE BERRE
HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
Ashley Thompson wearing Toccin plaid top, skirt, and cream sweater, neimanmarcus.com.
ASHLEY THOMPSON and her husband, Christopher, grew up in nearby Cary. The couple always dreamt of owning a home in Barrington and made that dream a reality three years ago. Since then, they have welcomed two beautiful daughters. Before having children, Thompson worked as a medical assistant for an obstetrician-gynecologist but knew all the while her true calling was to be a mother. After her oldest daughter was born, Thompson transitioned to being a stay-at-home mom, which is “one of the most amazing, rewarding, and hardest things” she has ever done. Thompson loves volunteering and giving back and hopes to set a good example for her daughters.
Gadget: It would probably have to be my KitchenAid Stand Mixer. Baking and cooking for people is one of my love languages. Scent: Candy by Prada is one of my favorites. Sometimes, I mix it up with a few of my Tiffany & Co. scents as well. Barrington spot: We love to go to Southern Belle’s Pancakes for breakfast. They have the best pancakes there. Angelina is a must for cute gifts and Barrington spirit wear. Biltmore Country Club is also one of our favorites for dinner, and you can find us at their Beach Club all summer long. Hostess gift to receive: Something personal that inspired the person picking it out to think of me! Heartfelt gifts are always the best. Gift to give: Something cute for the kitchen or home. Angelina, French N.75 Maison, and Crate & Barrel always have the best options. Otherwise, a nice bottle of wine from Cooper’s Hawk is always a good choice.
What actress would play you in a movie? I think Emma Stone would be a good fit. We have similar features, and I have loved all the projects she has worked on. Who from history would you want to travel with? It would definitely have to be Stevie Nicks (whom my oldest daughter is named after!). I would love to hear her stories about being in Fleetwood Mac, and I feel like she would have a lot of wisdom to share. Where do you look for inspiration? My husband, my daughters, my parents, my older brother, my in-laws, and my group of amazing mom friends. All these people have truly helped me grow. Favorite book? There are so many that I’m not sure I have a favorite! I love anything by Taylor Jenkins Reid or Colleen Hoover. Most beloved cookbook? I don’t actually use a cookbook most of the time. I have learned a lot about cooking from my mother. I also watch a lot of Food Network and cooking videos. Half Baked Harvest is probably one of my favorite creators that I look to for inspiration. Best dinner party hack? Prep whatever you can ahead of time! This will leave you rushing less to get everything done. Also, order out for dessert. Ambrosia has a great selection of pastries and cakes that are both beautiful and delicious. What’s in your bag right now? My phone, wallet, Kate Spade planner, some pens and highlighters, a few makeup essentials, extra hair ties, a notepad, and some Annie’s Bunny Fruit Snacks for my constantly snacking toddler.
