United grad expanding massage therapy business - Monmouth Daily Review Atlas

[massage]

MONMOUTH — A United High School graduate hopes to continue expanding her business after branching out on her own.


Ashley Gaskill opened a new storefront for her massage therapy business in March. Therapeutic Massage by Ashley Gaskill is located at 117 W. First Ave.


“I have always known, since I was a kid, that I wanted to do massage therapy,” said Gaskill. “It is just something I have always been interested in.”


Gaskill attended Carl Sandburg College for massage therapy. After graduating, she began working with Bittner Chiropractic Rehab.


“I got my start with Bryan after I got my license. It was great, but I always wanted my own space; to be my own entity,” said Gaskill.


Gaskill was urged to pursue her current location by Ginger Oliphant, who is opening an organic grocery store next door.


“We worked together to be in the same location,” said Gaskill, who hopes the makeshift partnership could transform the area into a sort of holistic oasis.


“I have had so much more business with a store front,” said Gaskill. “I’ve gained a loyal following; weeklies, bi-weeklies and monthlies. They all come back.”


For Gaskill, her line of work does not feel like work at all. It is her passion.


“I love it when people walk away satisfied. They walk away saying they will be able to sleep, and it takes away their pain,” said Gaskill. “It is very humbling to be able to help others. It gives them temporary relief and relaxation. It is time they get to spend on themselves.”


Gaskill has a dream of opening a full-service spa in Monmouth; providing manicures, pedicures, massages, etc.


“I’ve been thinking about doing something bigger, hopefully within the next five years. Something really nice women can walk into. Something they could bring their wedding party to,” said Gaskill.


Being located downtown, during Monmouth’s revitalization efforts, will only further promote her business, Gaskill believes.


“The store front, with the large windows and sign, has really gotten my name out there. I was busy on Main Street, but I don’t think I really got the visibility,” said Gaskill. “With the downtown revitalization, we should get even more traffic. I am very glad they are doing it. Having a business is a whole other world. It is much different than just working somewhere, but it is so worth it.”


Massages are available by appointment. Call or text Ashley Gaskill at 299-8407.
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