How an Artist, a House Party & God’s Plan Created Something Bigger Than Expected

From Austin to Amy’s Laguna Beach home, mixed media artist Ash Almonte brought more than just art, she brought soul. In this radiant, raw episode, Amy shares how their Instagram connection sparked a full-blown, joy-filled art event that turned into lifelong memories, new collectors, and even a mural commission. Dive into the behind-the-scenes of what it really takes to create beauty, live boldly, and show up with faith.In this episode: • How Amy and Ash’s collaboration turned into a home gallery event • The power of saying yes, even when it’s inconvenient • Behind the art: grief, butterflies, and Ash’s deeper story • What it takes to host a meaningful, stylish event • The magic of women gathering, creating, and connecting📍 TIMESTAMPS: 00:00:33 – How the art collab started from an IG DM 00:01:31 – Amy sees Ash’s work & pitches a bigger idea 00:02:51 – The huge commitment it took for Ash to say yes 00:04:07 – Juggling motherhood, marriage & painting 10+ pieces 00:05:03 – Turning the event into an elevated experience 00:06:30 – Why butterflies are central to Ash’s art 00:07:15 – Curating the perfect guest list for art lovers 00:07:38 – Custom denim painting, Louis bags & live art 00:08:03 – Botox, brows, and one bold male guest 00:09:08 – Amy’s event-planning breakdown (and secrets) 00:10:05 – Why 3–6pm was the perfect party window 00:10:44 – Specialty cocktails: Butterfly Kisses & Monarchs 00:11:25 – The RSVPs, denim painting count & logistics 00:12:48 – The unforgettable hot bartender story 00:15:47 – The real stress before the event & praying it works out 00:17:32 – Favorite moments: connection, champagne, and joy 00:18:39 – Guests’ emotional response to Ash’s art 00:19:55 – Ash’s story: losing her dad & the meaning of butterflies 00:21:00 – Ash gets commissioned for a custom mural 00:22:08 – More collectors, more commissions, more connection🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-amy-plus-podcast/id1811885921🧡 Weekly blog: https://www.amyplusjoe.com/blog/ 🛍 Shop my looks: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/@amyplusjoe 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amyplusjoe/ 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@amyplusjoe 💸 Weekly sales: https://www.amyplusjoe.com/weekly-sales/