Meet Juan Alberto Mora Soto | Founder and CEO, Summer Set Landscaping Inc.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Juan Alberto Mora Soto and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Juan, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own business came from a mix of wanting control over my future and seeing real opportunity in the work I was already doing. I realized that instead of building someone else’s company, I could apply my skills, work ethic, and attention to detail to create something of my own. I wanted the freedom to make decisions, set my own standards for quality, and build a reputation based on reliability and honest work. At the same time, I saw a demand in the market and knew that if I stayed consistent and delivered great results, the business could grow. It wasn’t just about making money—it was about creating stability, taking pride in my work, and building something long-term that I could fell proud and stand behind.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
From the Ground Up: My Story in Landscaping

In the landscaping industry, you don’t just build gardens; you build backdrops for people’s lives. My journey as a contractor started with a shovel, a vision, and the incredible support of my parents, Alberto Mora and Dora Soto. Getting to where I am today wasn’t a walk in the park—it involved long days in the sun, navigating the physical toll of the trade, and the constant pressure of proving myself as a new business owner.

What sets my work apart is that I don’t just see a “yard”—I see potential. Whether it’s a complex hardscape or a complete turf renovation, I am most proud of the moment a client sees their vision come to life for the first time. That “wow” factor is what I live for professionally. I overcame the early hurdles of this business by staying disciplined and remembering that my name is on every gate I walk through.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that your reputation is your most valuable tool. You can have the best equipment in the world, but if you don’t have integrity, you have nothing. I’ve learned to listen more than I talk, ensuring that every project reflects the client’s personality while maintaining the high standards I set for myself.

What I want the world to know about my brand is that it is a family-driven mission. Every project I complete is a stepping stone toward the future I’m building for my son, Nickolas Ray Mora. When people see my work, I want them to see the dedication of a man who values his roots, respects his clients’ trust, and takes immense pride in leaving the world a little more beautiful than he found it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
A Perfect Week in San Diego: The Boardwalk & Beyond

If my best friend were visiting, I’d want them to experience the energy that makes San Diego famous. We’d spend a huge chunk of our time at Belmont Park. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgic fun and modern beach vibes.

The Boardwalk Experience: We’d grab a table at one of the great restaurants right along the boardwalk—nothing beats a big, juicy burger with a view of the Pacific.

The Sweet Spot: After lunch, we’d grab some ice cream and hit the pavement.

Cruising the Coast: We’d rent bikes and just cruise. From Mission Beach down toward Pacific Beach, seeing the homes and the coastal landscaping along the way is always inspiring.

The Grand Finale: We would time our ride to end right as the sun hits the horizon. Watching a San Diego sunset from the beach is the ultimate way to wind down and appreciate the beauty of where we live.

Throughout the rest of the week, I’d take them to see the contrasts of our city—from the lush, manicured gardens of Balboa Park to the rugged, natural cliffs of Sunset Cliffs. It’s a week focused on good food, great views, and that laid-back coastal lifestyle that you can only find here.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My Shoutout

I would like to dedicate this shoutout to the incredible circle of people who have fueled my journey and believed in my vision from day one:

My Parents, Alberto Mora and Dora Soto: For providing the solid foundation, values, and unwavering love that allowed me to pursue my dreams.

My Siblings Jesse and Lizzet and Grandparents: For the lifelong support and the many words of encouragement that kept me moving forward during challenging times.

My Wife Angelica Chaparro Mora: My partner in everything, whose constant belief in me is my greatest source of strength.

My Son, Nickolas Ray Mora: Who serves as my ultimate motivation and reminds me every day why I work so hard to build a legacy.

My First Clients: A special thank you to those who took a chance on me when I was just starting out. Your trust and belief in my work were the catalysts for everything that followed.

I am where I am today because of this community. Thank you for being a vital part of my story.

Website: https://www.summersetlandscaping.com

Image Credits
Summer Set Landscaping Inc.