Meet Jocelyn Rose | Founder, San Diego Picnic Co. | Women-Owned Business Advocate

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

Hi Jocelyn, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m originally from Upstate New York, but I’ve lived on both coasts— from NY, FL, Virginia Beach, and now San Diego. Growing up, my mom raised me on her own, and she worked hard to create a happy life for us. She made sure we had those special little moments together, like weekend picnics that always brought us joy. That’s stayed with me, and it’s why I started my picnic business here. I want to help others create those same memories with the people they love.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve been an entrepreneur for years, and the journey definitely hasn’t been easy. I tried different ventures, chasing stability and success, but it always felt like something was missing. It wasn’t until I shifted my focus from just making money to actually following my passion that everything clicked. Starting San Diego Picnic Co. brought me back to those meaningful moments from my childhood—creating joyful, shared experiences. Now, I truly love what I do every day, and I’m proud to run a business that’s about more than just a service. It’s about helping people make memories. My biggest lesson? Do what fills your heart, not just your wallet. That’s where real success comes from.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting San Diego, we’d definitely make the most of it! Here’s how I’d plan our week:

**Day 1 – Beach Day**
We’d kick things off at La Jolla Shores. I’d set up a little picnic, of course, with all the snacks and drinks. We’d kayak around the cove and watch the sea lions, then have a seafood dinner at Duke’s La Jolla with a sunset view.

**Day 2 – Food & Coffee Crawl**
We’d start with coffee at Communal Coffee in North Park, then explore the neighborhood’s boutiques and murals. For lunch, we’d hit up Carnitas’ Snack Shack in Embarcadero, right by the water. Dinner would be tacos and margaritas at Puesto in Seaport Village.

**Day 3 – Downtown & Little Italy**
We’d start with brunch at Morning Glory in Little Italy (their pink pancakes are a must!). Then we’d wander through the Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market, and later, grab cocktails at the rooftop bar at Born & Raised.

**Day 4 – Hiking & Relaxing**
We’d hike at Torrey Pines State Reserve for stunning ocean views, then relax at Del Mar Beach. For dinner, we’d go to The Crack Shack in Little Italy for some amazing fried chicken.

**Day 5 – Balboa Park & Old Town**
We’d explore Balboa Park, visiting museums and the botanical garden. Later, we’d head to Old Town for authentic Mexican food and to check out some local history.

**Day 6 – Local Favorites & Sunset Cliffs**
We’d start with breakfast at The Cottage in La Jolla, then go thrifting in Ocean Beach. We’d end the day at Sunset Cliffs for a gorgeous view and a laid-back picnic dinner to close out the trip.

I’d love to show them the mix of outdoor beauty, amazing food, and laid-back San Diego vibes!

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’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my mom. She’s my rock and the reason San Diego Picnic Co. exists. She raised me on her own, balancing work and life, and still managed to create the most amazing memories for us, like our weekend picnics. Those little outings were her way of giving us moments of joy, even during tough times, and that’s stayed with me. I watched her work so hard to build a good life for us, and I’m grateful every day for her love, strength, and example. This business is my way of honoring her and sharing that happiness with others.

Website: https://www.sandiegopicnicco.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandiegopicniccompany?igsh=YTQwZjQ0NmI0OA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563848161711&mibextid=LQQJ4d

Yelp: https://yelp.to/Favm8Ie_IP

Image Credits
i took all images