The birth of Poppy + Monarch by Ashley Lundy stemmed from a deep-seated desire to provide a sense of visibility, validation, and acceptance to individuals grappling with chronic illnesses. Following a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) in March 2018, the founder embarked on a journey of advocacy, utilizing her voice to champion the cause of those living with chronic and invisible ailments.
Through Ashley Lundy's experiences, she gleaned a profound realization: while her illness undoubtedly shapes aspects of her life, it does not define her entirely. Embracing her identity beyond her condition, she embraces qualities of hope, determination, quirkiness, and style.
With a longstanding passion for enamel pins, Ashley Lundy's personal collection boasts over 100 unique pieces. In 2020, she dipped her toes into pin design by crafting a limited-edition pin to promote her bestselling self-help memoir, "Jesus Year." The process ignited a spark within her, paving the way for the realization of her dream—to establish her own pin business. Thus, Poppy + Monarch came to fruition, now showcased proudly on its official website.
The name "Poppy + Monarch" holds significant meaning for the founder. Poppies and monarch butterflies, native to California, symbolize joy and connection to her Californian roots. Moreover, their vibrant orange hue aligns with the official color of MS awareness. Furthermore, the fleeting nature of poppy blooms and the short lifespan of monarch butterflies serve as poignant reminders to cherish the present moment fully.
Each product within the Poppy + Monarch collection is meticulously crafted with the resilient spirit of the chronically ill individual in mind. It is the founder's hope that these pins resonate deeply with individuals and serve as sources of inspiration. Gratitude is extended to all supporters for their unwavering commitment to championing this small business endeavor.
