Ashley Jang

Owner, Barks & Brews

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Ashley Jang (née Bell) is the owner and founder of Barks & Brews, Erie’s first off-leash dog park and bar + daycare, located alongside Voodoo Brewery in downtown Erie. Built from her passion for dogs, community, and connection, Barks & Brews was created to give people and pups a place to relax, socialize, and enjoy local craft brews together — all in one space that feels like a backyard hangout.

Before launching her business, Ashley spent over a decade in civil litigation and investigative work, specializing in wrongful conviction and post-conviction criminal defense cases. She worked alongside attorney Craig Cooley, a former Innocence Project lawyer, gaining a deep appreciation for justice, detail, and resilience — traits that now guide her as an entrepreneur.

A Penn State Behrend alum, Ashley spent eight years in Cleveland before returning home to Erie a year and a half ago to build something uniquely local. When she’s not at the park or planning events, you’ll find her organizing (literally anything), hanging out with friends, or spending time with her husband Scott and their dogs, Hamilton and Dolly.