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

Hi Lulu, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?

Initially it was a self-challenge, I loved the idea of having creative control over something entirely my own. I tried other ventures prior to my knitting business that didn’t quite turn out but I’ve learned all failures make the path to success. By the time I began Rosemary Press Knits, it came easily and things really fell into place. I found passion with knitting. I’ve been knitting and crocheting since my teen years but I did not tap into making it a small business until I came across a YouTube video in late 2017 of someone showing a knitting trick while knitting a women’s hat for her own small business. And I questioned, “I wonder if I can find success in that?” It turns out I could!

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

I think what sets me apart from other businesses similar to mine is that I really do strive for consistency in an entirely handmade product (which is difficult to do!), high-quality materials and taking care of my customers. My business motto is “handmade with love, from my home to yours.” And I mean that. I make each of my knitted hats with the care as if I’m making it for my own little one or a dear friend.

What I am most proud of professionally is overcoming the challenges of a small business by treating each challenge as a problem waiting for a solution. It’s an opportunity for improvement and I have capitalized on those moments where at the time it might seem like a low.

A lesson I have learned along the way is trust yourself. Doubt and imposter syndrome can strike at any time when you’re building on ideas. I jot down everything and remind myself that there are no bad ideas or I wouldn’t be where I am with my business today.

I would want the world to know that as I make my knitted hats, I cultivate good thoughts and gratitude and am mentally in a positive space. I believe that energy goes into each handmade hat and has led to so many satisfied customers!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love to take friends to the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve to hike the Torrey Pines Beach Trail Loop because the views are spectacular from the cliffs and the hike can be for all levels. Then a quick 20 minute drive to Old Town to eat outdoors at Casa Reyes and to enjoy the beautiful San Diego weather.

One of my favorite evening activities is to take friends to Basic Bar & Pizza downtown to have pizza and beer and then to walk it off and head over to a baseball game to see the San Diego Padres play at Petco Park, it’s an impressive place and there is so much to do in the park even if you don’t love baseball.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are many persons who contributed to the success of Rosemary Press Knits. My mother, family, friends, so many! They have been so generous with their feedback and encouragement.

I would also give a shoutout to The Merriweather Council Podcast. This podcast provided me with so many helpful small business tips and gems!

Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/RosemaryPressKnits

Instagram: @rosemarypresskb

Other: TikTok @rosemarypressknits

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.