Who are you and what do you do?

I am Ashley Seibel, and I am a creative at heart. I have owned a wedding and portrait photography business here since 2011. I also serve on the coaching staff for Hermiston High School dance team and work as a competitive dance coach at the newly opened Jr. Jam Dance Annex here in Hermiston.

Where did you grow up? When did you come to Hermiston?

I grew up in Stanfield and moved over to Hermiston about 20 years ago. I spent a little bit of time in Tri-Cities too, but Hermiston has always felt like home.

What are a few of your hobbies?

My life is mostly consumed with dance and I really like it that way. I think this also means I’m one of the few who get to enjoy their hobbies as a career and I feel really blessed because of that. But when I’m not doing dance related things, I really enjoy yard work and weirdly find it super relaxing.

How do you spend your free time?

Anyone who knows me knows that my plate is always overflowing — so free time is so rare for me. But when I do have it I enjoy a really good book or a quiet day at home visiting with my family and friends and eating really good food.

How would you describe yourself?

If I boiled it down — I like to think of myself as authentic. I think it took a long time for me to find my voice, but now that I have, it’s not going anywhere. But, I also think people get confused by me at times… You’ll rarely see me at any community events because I really am a giant homebody but those who know me know that I am really loud, outspoken, passionate and driven. I place a lot of value in small group settings, too.

What is something you’re passionate about?

Right now I’m really passionate about growth. It’s central to who I am and remains my primary focus as I work with student athletes. And since I try to walk the walk the walk alongside my teams, I am currently in school working on completing my M.A. in Communication and Leadership Studies so I can be the best version of me not only for myself, but also for them.

What are a few of your proudest accomplishments?

First and foremost, my kids. My husband I have raised some really kind, genuine, giving kids. They (Hayley and Lucas) are our greatest accomplishment. Second to that would have to be winning two state championships with HHS Dance in the 2022 season. It is a year etched in the hearts of all of us who walked through it and it remains tangible proof that we can do hard things, that teenagers are incredible humans and that hard work will always garner results.

What do you like most about the community you live in?

This town has incredible charm. I’ve considered moving elsewhere because we really are entering a new chapter of our lives where our kids are about grown, but this place has a special hold on us. It’s been a beautiful place to raise our children. It’s full of really good people and we’ve enjoyed the relationships we have built here.