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

Hi Ashly, what’s the most difficult decision you’ve ever had to make?
The most difficult decision I’ve ever made has been to turn down opportunities (work contracts, volunteer positions, etc) that didn’t serve the season of life I was in. I once heard before that not every golden opportunity that presents itself to you is FOR you.

Those types of opportunities probably would have catapulted to my work but the pressure would have broken the life I’m building for my family.

What should our readers know about your business?
For Savvy Systems Co, I’m proud of the work we’ve done in such a short time. We’ve been able to help so many wonderful visionaries and excited to serve more.

I started my business journey about 8 years ago when my husband started his landscaping business and I have developed other small businesses from watching his flourish. Through trial and error, I’ve learned about the basics of business, aspect of business that I love and hate and how to navigate a team. It has not always been easy but the hard parts brought breakthrough in areas I needed to mature in – so it was worth it.

I overcome challenges through prayer and counsel from my peers. I also accept where I am slacking and take the necessary steps to either fix it or acknowledge that I need help via outsourcing or stepping away altogether. The latter has always been the hardest.

Along the way, I’ve learned that I’m not always the best person for the job and that’s ok. My mission in life to see our clients succeed in their goals so if that means referring you to someone else, I will do it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There are so many amazing places in San Diego to visit – a true city of adventure.

I would start off in the mountains by visiting Julian’s Cafe and Julian Pie Company in Julian, CA. The small hometown feeling is wonderful during wintertime. The snow is pretty magical.

Next, I would hike Cowles Mountain and fish at Lake Murray in La Mesa, CA. Perfect for the outdoorsy people who love a beautiful view and being in nature. You could also stop by Farmers Table in downtown La Mesa for some amazing food! If you are looking for more substance, Casa de Pico has authentic mexican cuisine and absolutely gorgeous.

After that, I would hit up some family friendly spots like Old Town, Belmont Park, SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo for some awesome learning opportunities for my homeschool mamas.

Since you’re near the beach, you have to walk Mission Beach as well as visit La Jolla Shores. San Diego beaches are incredible.

My favorite food spots would be Las Cuatro Milpas in Barrio Logan, Cocina 35 in Downtown and Otay Mesa & any San Diego steakhouse.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate this shoutout to my husband, Hilario and my children, Vivian, Sofia and Hilario. I also want to honor some amazing people in my life.

My parents, Angela Popp Mercado, Rogelio Mercado and Nydia Mercado for creating a safe space for me to think outside of the box. My mom challenged me to be innovative and creative. My dad taught me to have confidence in my own decision making because I have to live with the consequences. My stepmom helped me with creating healthy boundaries to protect my peace even if that means severing relationships.

My sisters, Amanda Gutierrez for always being my hype girl and personal comedian and Rebecca Barrios for believing in my skill sets and experience before I did. My best friend, Jessica Fitch for letting me bounce every crazy idea off you.

Last but not least, my Foray familia: Albert Valderrama, Anika Aguirre, Brian Duffy, Carlos Morales, Crystal Minardi, David Makin, Debra Ruffalo, Denisse Aguilar, Desiree Ruiz, Freddy Sandoval, Kevin Thomas, Leon Aceituno, Martha Arce & Vanessa Corella. Thank you all for inspiring me to be a better wife, mom, entrepreneur and friend.

Website: https://savvysystemsco.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvysystemsco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/savvysystemsco

Image Credits
Sophia Elizabeth Photography

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.