Forty Under 40: Ashley Shaver

Ashley Shaver started the first Rhea Lana’s Children’s Consignment franchise in 2006 at the request of her sister, company founder Rhea Lana Riner of Conway, to test the concept.

Rhea Lana’s now has more than 50 franchise locations, and Shaver’s business grew so much she split it into sales events in both Washington and Benton counties. Sales at both locations are held twice a year.

This fall, Shaver will expand the business again with a Siloam Springs event.

The Northwest Arkansas franchise has the largest number of consigners and items, and the largest percentage of items sold, in the nation, she said. That earned it the company’s Top Gun Award in 2011.

In 2010, it was named Rhea Lana’s top franchise in the nation.

The business allows Shaver, who for several years was a single mom, to work from home while raising her four children.

She homeschools through Prov-idence Christian Academy, where she also volunteers.

After each sale, consignors can choose to donate their unsold clothing, and Shaver offers foster families first pick. The rest goes to the Northwest Arkansas Children’s Shelter and other charities.

Although revenue has risen each year, Shaver said her goals have been more about serving families than increasing revenue.

“When you set very high standards and you love people, the numbers will fall into place.”