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

Hi Jairus, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I was very skeptical of whether I could actually turn a passion of mine into something profitable. It was also a fairly large investment to get all the equipment and materials necessary to start up a pottery business. I had to do a good amount of research and experimenting beforehand to make sure there was really a market for what I was selling.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Growing up, I was always passionate about art. I took art classes all throughout high school, learning every different art form I could. I studied painting, drawing, photography, ceramics, etc. After high school, I continued studying art by taking ceramics courses at MiraCosta. I have thankfully been able to use my passion to create a small business and do something I enjoy.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If a friend was visiting the San Diego area, I would definitely show him the city. I would have to show him around Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and Little Italy. There is plenty of good Mexican and Italian food to try. Of course, I would take him to the beach here.

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?
I would have to give a shoutout to my high school art teachers. Mrs. Herrick taught me the fundamentals of art and helped me become more creative. Miss Burroughs started me on my path in the world of ceramics and gave me a real passion for it. My father and grandfather, both entrepreneurs in their own right, really pushed me to start my own business, and have continuously supported me the whole way.

Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BricaBracPottery?ref=shop_sugg

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

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.