Ashley Williams Explains How Self-Doubt Sparked Hallmark Films
Ashley Williams, the talented actress, may seem like she has everything figured out on the outside, but internally, she struggles with insecurities that inspired her two new Hallmark movies. In an exclusive interview with Us Weekly, Williams revealed that a moment of self-doubt and self-hatred in an airport sparked the idea for her movies, To Barcelona, With Love, and To Barcelona, Forever.
The premise of the movies revolves around a writer who is not very good at her craft, but her book is translated into a different language and rewritten by someone else to make it successful. Williams humorously admitted that she thought the only way she would ever be a successful writer is if someone else rewrote her work into something great.
The idea for the movies came about when Williams pitched the concept to writer Julie Sherman Wolfe, who suggested they needed another Hallmark star who spoke a different language. Enter Alison Sweeney, who happened to speak Spanish, leading to the setting of the movies in Barcelona.
Both Williams and Sweeney signed on to play the roles of writer Anna and translator Erica, respectively. After a successful pitch, Sherman Wolfe asked the actresses to figure out how to turn the idea into two separate movies. Williams and Sweeney were meticulous in crafting the second movie, ensuring it was unique and not a typical sequel.
To Barcelona, With Love focuses on a misunderstanding, while To Barcelona, Forever incorporates well-intentioned deception and a handsome Spaniard into the mix. The first movie introduces the friendship between Erica and Anna through miscommunication and a book debacle, while the second film explores Anna’s journey of self-discovery and a new love interest.
Sweeney expressed her dislike for sequels but ensured that To Barcelona, Forever did not feel like one. She emphasized the importance of the characters’ growth and lessons learned from the first movie carrying forward into the second installment.
To Barcelona, With Love premieres on Hallmark Channel on Saturday, June 7, followed by To Barcelona, Forever on Saturday, June 14. The movies promise a delightful mix of romance, humor, and self-discovery set against the beautiful backdrop of Barcelona. Don’t miss out on these heartwarming tales of friendship, love, and personal growth. Recent studies have shown that there is a strong link between mental health and physical health. It has long been known that mental health issues can have a negative impact on physical health, but now researchers are finding that the reverse is also true – physical health can have a significant impact on mental health.
One study, published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research, found that individuals who reported having poor physical health were more likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. This is not surprising, as chronic pain and illness can have a significant impact on a person’s mental well-being. In addition, physical health issues can also limit a person’s ability to engage in activities that they enjoy, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
On the other hand, individuals who reported having good physical health were found to have lower levels of depression and anxiety. This is likely due to the fact that physical activity releases endorphins, which are known to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. In addition, individuals who are physically healthy are more likely to engage in social activities and have a strong support system, which can also contribute to better mental health.
This research underscores the importance of taking care of both our physical and mental health. It is not enough to simply focus on one aspect of health – both are interconnected and can impact each other. This means that individuals should strive to maintain a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and regular check-ups with a healthcare provider.
It is also important for individuals to prioritize their mental health by seeking help when needed. This can include talking to a therapist or counselor, practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques, and engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment.
Overall, the link between mental and physical health is clear. By taking care of both aspects of our well-being, we can improve our overall quality of life and reduce the risk of developing chronic health conditions. It is important for individuals to prioritize their health and seek help when needed in order to live a happy and fulfilling life.



