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

Hi Chrisette, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I’m a born and raised San Diegan. There is no place like home! I’m a first-generation Filipino-Chinese American. Both of my parents are native to the Philippines and moved to the US almost 40 years ago. I come from a long line of hard workers.

My great grandfather escaped from the communist party in China and started a rice mill in Vietnam. He created an incredible empire, and from the stories that my grandma tells, she was the princess of her town. Communism hit Vietnam hard, and their family was forced to flee to The Philippines.

My dad at the age of 18 was an aviation Technician for Philippine Airlines. His side of the family migrated to the United States and settled in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. Unfortunately, as he was applying for jobs no one believed his experience especially for being so young. So, he took a job as a pizza delivery man. At 20 he joined the United States Navy and was stationed in Great Lakes, Illinois. But like all great stories of perseverance, my dad worked hard to move up the ranks here in America. He found himself working in the car industry, and was the top-grossing salesman in all of San Diego. Now, my dad owns a mortgage and realty company, can still get you any car you want, and continues to crush it with everything he does.

My mother, an only child, moved to Chicago with her aunt and uncle. Met my dad and got married within 3 months. Once they moved to San Diego, my mom started working at Sharp Memorial Hospital. She’s been working there now for the past 25 years.

As a child, I always remember my parents working and working and working. My parents are tireless. It’s incredible. My mom used to pull double-shifts working 16+ hours and I didn’t hear any complaints. They are true providers for their families and show what the American dream is all about. Seeing how they persevered and provided for our family is what gave me the drive and will to succeed. That never give up, never surrender mentality.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I started Settie Social in 2017 after working for an e-commerce company. I help small businesses establish themselves on all social media platforms. I help create brand aesthetic, brand voice, and what it looks like to have a presence online. What sets me apart from others is that I focus on creative communication—how things funnel, connect, and flow through all channels. From website to email marketing, and then becoming a loyal follower on social media. I create custom processes for each business to take, grow their audience, and generate sales.

Starting this business wasn’t easy, and it still isn’t. There are many moving parts especially when everything online is constantly changing. From algorithms to content trends, to even new products/services that people provide. You have to stay creative. You have to remain relevant. You have to be on the ball and be able to spin multiple plates.

As I’m getting older and getting into my marriage, I find myself slowing down (a bit) and handing things off. I want to grow talent and bring up the next generation of Settie Social. So with all of that said, I am looking forward to hiring… scratch that… collaborating with more talented people to work alongside me. I know growing has its pains, some things don’t work out. But ultimately this will grow my business, what I offer, and open more doors!

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.
DAY 1: So hypothetically speaking, my friend would land in SD at 3pm (just in time for happy hour) and we would head to Coasterra for delicious tableside guac and toasted coconut margaritas. Then we would head to Little Italy and grab some freshly shucked oysters from Ironside Fish & Oyster. Walking down India St, we get a scoop of ice cream at Salt & Straw, grab lychee martini from Cloak & Petal and shop at the most adorable boutique named Stroll. Finally, we would end the night under the stars by on the rooftop of Kettner Exchange getting the Pig Mac Bao, Hot & Spicy Garlic Noodles, and 2 Paradisos.

DAY 2: We would explore La Jolla! Starting from the Tidepools, we would talk to the Children’s Pool and walk down the sea wall taking photos (from afar) of some sea lions and their pups. Knowing we’d be hungry, we’d grab brunch at Cody’s ordering some yummy bites and mimosas. Then we would head to Girard to shop till we drop, zigzagging from Francesca’s to 2Bella, Lululemon, and Aviator Nation. We definitely would not forget to pitstop at Girard Gourmet for a fresh-baked treat. Making it to happy hour, we would hit up Herringbone for $1 oysters, calamari, and of course more lychee martinis. Then we would catch the most gorgeous sunset rooftop at George’s at the Cove.

DAY 3: Beach day all day! Since I live in La Jolla, we’d be posted up at the beach all day packing snacks, our beach chairs, and an umbrella and head to Windansea Beach.

DAY 4: This day is a full PB day. We’ll be starting at Flamingo Deck for brunch then head to Trendy & Tipsy for a little shopping. Doing a little bar hopping we would head to El Prez, make our way to Waterbar, and then to Firehouse, catching all of the best scenic spots with crafty cocktails. After this, we’d probably be pooped and ready to call it an early night.

DAY 5: We’d do a full spa day at Viejas Willows Spa, one of my favorite spas in San Diego. Getting massages, eating french fries, and drinking champagne, then relax in the jacuzzi. Maybe we’d fit in a little gambling if we’re up for it.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The 2nd person I cannot give more credit to is my mentor, Tannaz Kirichkow. Tannaz is the owner of a 4 location cheerleading brand known worldwide. She is a woman of faith, dedication, and is the definition of perseverance. Tannaz started California All-stars in 2001 teaching kids ages 3-18+ cheerleading skills. 21 years later, her company builds kids into world champion athletes and holds over 100+ national titles and 10+ world championship titles.

Tannaz took me under her wing, saw my talent, and even gave me one of my first jobs. She sees the gold in people and Tannaz does nothing but encourage and push people to see their own potential. She’s done so much for me, and I’m so grateful for her leadership and her voice in my life.

Website: settiesocial.com

Instagram: @settielove

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/user_details?userid=YPOh3-Y6mqZnkvo1MiND6A

Image Credits
Kiley Shai 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.