We had the good fortune of connecting with Erika Billings and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erika, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking

Risk taking is critical for artistic, personal and professional development. I have always been interested in dabbling into something new which has been the driving force behind my wide range of experience amongst several industries. Taking risks and diving into what genuinely interests me has enabled me to expand my knowledge across the board. Taking risks means challenging myself to further develop myself in the environments that I want to thrive in and make an impact.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

As an Artist, my life revolves around the realm of imagination and hard work. The pursuit to transform my dreams into reality has allowed me to grow as a person and as an Artist. I have been in the professional industry for over 13 years now. My creative abilities include: Visual Arts, Professional Makeup Artistry, Arts Education, Operations Management, Food & Beverage, Event coordination, and much more. Currently, I am the Food and Beverage Director at The Chula Vista Golf Course and Oversee Food and Beverage operations. I am still free lancing as an Artist during this time and think that it’s important to always stay in tune with my love for the Arts. I have a few projects up my sleeve to really embrace my journey as a creative and experienced professional and hope that soon I’ll be able to share them with my community. My creative work is inspired by an array of sources, to mention a few: the mind’s natural inhibitions, music, exotic plants, bold colors, brazilian parrots, dainty accents, glamour, au natural aesthetics, and all things beautiful.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

San Diego has so many hidden gems. Some of my favorites are Izakaya Masa in Golden hills for the amazing ramen. Kate sessions park for an epic picnic with a view. The Village in La Mesa for a nice stroll to a local bar or restaurant. Must visit shelter island and all it’s greatness when in San Diego. The Nolen rooftop for a pretty sunset and a cocktail. Cusp restaurant at the Hotel La Jolla for a breath taking view for brunch. Beaches are a must also, Torrey Pines Beach, Mission Beach, Coronado Beach. The Chula Vista Golf course for some golf and superb service. Can’t forget Seaport village and several Taco shops while in San Diego for the best Mexican food in the world.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

My family and soon to be husband have always been supportive of everything I dedicate myself to do. The consistency of their support truly contributes to my success and they deserve to be recognized for all that they do day in and day out. Thank you, I love you all so much!

Instagram: Embsandiego

Linkedin: ErikaBillings

Image Credits
Jr Pecache, FAST at UCLA, Sarina Love

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.