Want to add a personal touch?

I'm Jenn Ashton,

Writer —

in more ways than one.

After decades as a PR and marketing professional, I've seen it again and again:

The brands that last value people over transactions.

It's why I've built my work around two kinds of writing:

one captures proof with personal stories,

the other creates connection with personal moments.

ashtonpen -proof through customer storytelling

ashtonink.com - connection through handwritten experiences

my why for calligraphy

I grew up as the middle of five sisters. (That's me with the feathered hair and '80s glasses — questionable styles, but the best music era!)

As a military family, we moved every couple years. It could have been easy to get lost in the shuffle.

But, my parents didn't let that happen. For instance, around this age, they gave me a journal with my name hand-scripted on the cover.

It made me feel seen.

It even influenced my path to become a professional writer.

This is my 'why' behind ashtonink calligraphy.

I help brands make business personal — because we all remember moments that make us feel seen.

How I got started in calligraphy

I have early memories of seeing my mom sign her checks with a flourish.

I loved the practical beauty and flow of her confident pen.

But ...

Calligraphy felt intimidating - so many angles and rules!
And, it felt lonely. I couldn't find anyone at my hobby store who knew what a B-nib was.

So, it would be YEARS before I picked up a pen holder.

Then, modern calligraphy started showing up—on packaging, on shirts, in logos. The styles were more relaxed, organic. I was especially mesmerized by videos online, only to be disappointed by own attempts.

(You too?! Yep, normal.)

Over time, I found my way to mentors, including the Utah Calligraphic Artists and the IAMPETH international association.

I’ve learned from master penmen, including the former Chief Calligrapher at the White House. I'm now part of a generous, growth-minded community.

And I'm still learning.

(That B-Nib? It has a rounded tip. Think Disney logo.)

I'm still intimidated at times, but it's part of the fun.

Today, my work blends modern and traditional calligraphy, rooted in Copperplate and foundational scripts. I love a good flourish—but I also love clarity and connection.

This is where it connects back to my work in marketing and PR:
I’ve spent years helping businesses connect with customers. Calligraphy is just another way to connect — more personal, more human, and harder to ignore.

When I’m not experimenting with new pens and inks (and listening to Chicago songs), you’ll find me hiking in Cache Valley, picking weeds on our hobby farm, or carpooling kids to water polo and concerts.

My life motto:

Only Connect

This simple focus comes in handy at work, at home (parenting is not for the faint of heart), and beyond.

Even if you don't need services at this time, I truly love connecting with other professionals and artists.

Let's connect!