Ashley Saunders is a nurse, entrepreneur, and avid adventurer living in the Oklahoma City metro. Balancing her career as a charge nurse and the owner of Vector Striping, Ashley also embraces the Oklahoma outdoor lifestyle in dirt bike enduro competitions. She joined Live in Oklahoma to share why Oklahoma’s natural beauty and active lifestyle make it the perfect place to call home.
Give me a snapshot of your life here in Oklahoma. What does your life look like here?
My family and I call Oklahoma home, and we love everything this state has to offer — whether it’s spending time at the lake, riding dirt bikes, or catching an Oklahoma Sooners game. Life here is a mix of hard work, adventure, and making the most of our time together.
Throughout my day, I’m balancing being a charge nurse in a pre/post surgery center, being a mom, and handling all of the social media and marketing for my parking lot striping, maintenance, and signage company.
Sounds like you wear a lot of hats. Are there any aspects of life in Oklahoma that make that easier than it might be if you lived in another state?
Absolutely. Oklahoma has a lower cost of living than a lot of other places, which helps when balancing work and family life. There’s also a strong sense of community here. Whether it’s neighbors, coworkers, or fellow business owners, people genuinely want to help each other succeed. Plus, we have so many great places to unwind and recharge, from lakes to amazing restaurants.
What opportunities has living in Oklahoma provided you and your family?
Oklahoma has given me the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. It’s a great place to start and run a business, and the connections here feel more personal — people really support local companies. It’s also a fantastic place to raise a family, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, sports, and a great sense of community.
Tell us about life in Oklahoma as a mom. Why did you choose to raise your kids here?
Oklahoma is a great place to raise a family. It has a mix of small-town charm and big-city opportunities, so you get the best of both worlds. There’s a strong sense of community, and people here look out for each other. There are also tons of activities for kids, from outdoor adventures to local events, so it’s easy to stay active and engaged.
What kinds of family-friendly activities do you all do together?
We love being outside. Whether we’re taking the boats out on the great lakes that Oklahoma has to offer, riding dirt bikes, or teaching our kid how to ride her Stacyc electric bike, we’re always up for an adventure.
When we’re not riding at the Stillwater 500 or Lake Stanley Draper, my husband and I occasionally compete in enduro races. When we’re not riding, we’re on a mission to find the best chips and queso at new restaurants, or you can find us at an OU football or softball game. If you’re looking for a great meal, you have to try the stacked enchiladas or their fantastic brunch at FRIDA southwest in Oklahoma City.
You’re big into the outdoors. What does the Oklahoma outdoor lifestyle have to offer?
Oklahoma has a ton to offer. There are beautiful lakes like Lake Murray and Lake Texoma, great off-road trails for dirt biking, and plenty of open space to explore. Little Sahara State Park is a must-visit for off-roading, and the Wichita Mountains offer incredible views and wildlife. If you love being on the water or hitting the trails, you won’t be disappointed here.
What other kinds of things do you like to do in your free time?
When I’m not riding, I love spending time on the water — Lake Murray, Lake Texoma, and Broken Bow are some of my favorites. I also enjoy checking out OKC’s local bar scene and trying new restaurants.
What’s a hidden gem in Oklahoma everyone needs to check out?
Lake Murray! It’s the most beautiful lake in the state, with stunning blue water that makes you forget you’re in Oklahoma. And if you’re in the area, you have to stop by Café Alley in Ardmore. It’s my favorite restaurant and the perfect spot to grab a great meal after a day on the water.
What’s your favorite part about living in Oklahoma?
My favorite part about living in Oklahoma is the combination of fantastic outdoor spots, an unmatched sports scene, and a growing foodie scene. There’s always something to do, whether it’s hiking, biking, or attending an OU football game. Plus, the sense of community here is incredible. People are always willing to help each other out, and there’s a real connection among locals.
What misconceptions do you think people tend to have about living in Oklahoma? What’s the reality, in your opinion?
People assume Oklahoma is just flat land and cow pastures, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. We have stunning lakes, unique landscapes like the Wichita Mountains, and some of the best food you’ll ever taste. The cost of living is low, and the people here make it feel like home. It’s an affordable place to live with a strong sense of community, and you’ll never run out of things to do. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, finding a great meal, or just enjoying the scenery, there’s something here for you.
What would you say to someone who’s considering moving to Oklahoma but isn’t sure if it’s the right place for them?
If you love a friendly community, outdoor adventures, and affordable living, Oklahoma is the place to be. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or just exploring the many lakes, there’s always something to do. The cost of living is low, and there’s a great local food scene and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
