Meet Emilio Linares | Owner and Operator of SD Light Guys

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

Hi Emilio, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
As a holiday and event lighting business owner, I view risk as an integral part of growth and success. Taking risks has been crucial in my career, allowing me to seize opportunities that set my business apart. Whether investing in new method or technologies, expanding services, or entering new markets, each calculated risk has brought valuable lessons and rewards. Embracing risk has enabled innovation, client satisfaction, and business expansion, ultimately driving my success in a competitive industry.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career has been a journey shaped by the unwavering support of my family and friends. What sets me apart is not just the work I do but the community of people who believe in me and have contributed to my success. I am most proud of the relationships I’ve built and the trust clients place in me to illuminate their most important events.

Getting to where I am today was far from easy. Starting out, there were countless challenges—from financial constraints to learning the ropes of running a business. Each obstacle was a lesson in resilience and resourcefulness. I’ve learned the importance of perseverance and the value of having a strong support system.

I want the world to know that my brand is more than just a business; it’s a testament to the power of community and the impact of collective effort. My story is one of gratitude, and my success is shared with all who have supported me.

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.
Here’s a revised version:

“An ideal vacation day for me in San Diego involves visiting one of the many beach towns. I would start with brunch and drinks, and Breakfast Republic comes to mind. After that, I’d head to Sunset Cliffs in Point Loma or the Hotel del Coronado in Coronado, depending on which part of town I’m in. For lunch, getting a California burrito is a must. We have the best Mexican food in the country, and it would be a travesty not to try it.

Next, I’d suggest visiting an attraction. Balboa Park, with its plethora of museums, SeaWorld, or my personal favorite, Petco Park, which boasts one of the best ballparks in the country with a lively crowd day in and day out. I would end the day at a cool whiskey bar in Little Italy, North Park, or the Gaslamp Quarter.”

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have had a ton of help along the way. My wife has always been a constant encouragement to my ambition and entrepreneurial spirit. Jacob Merkey of Jake’s Junk Removal has assisted me along the way, and my church community at San Diego Reformed Church in La Mesa has been a tremendous support.

Website: https://www.sdlightguys.com

Instagram: https://sd.light.guys

Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QJm6gVvMoH5cgSmR7?g_st=ic