Meet Maricel Rivers | Entrepreneur

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

Hi Maricel, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I’m from the Bay Area, California. I was born and raised here my whole life. I was born in Richmond, which was not easy. My mom was a senior in high school when she had me. My father went to prison at the age of two. It only made me stronger as a person, as I’m the oldest of my siblings and cousins. I am first generation Asian American. Both my parents immigrated to the US when they were little. My mom is from the Philippines and my dad is from Laos. Seeing how hard my parents and grandparents worked to make a life in the US is what made me be the strong woman I am today.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My journey to building my business has been filled with challenges and triumphs that shaped me into the person I am today. Starting as a little girl with big dreams, to a shy aviation student with no background in business, I took a leap into digital marketing after almost two years on temporary and personal disability. During that time, I struggled to cover basic needs, like rent and food, and I watched others around me succeed online. I knew I had to make a change, so I dove in, learning the ins and outs of social media growth and digital marketing.

What sets my brand apart is that I’m not just here to make a profit, I’m driven by a purpose. My “why” is rooted in family. I want to help my mom become financially stress-free, travel with my siblings, and give back to my grandma. I’m also deeply passionate about helping others unlock their potential, showing them that financial independence and success are within reach.

It wasn’t easy getting here. I had to confront my insecurities and overthinking, pushing past the barriers of doubt and fear. One of my proudest achievements was making my first sale on day 12 of my journey. I started small, but I worked hard, consistently putting in the time (even if it was just a few hours a day) and building momentum from there.

The most significant lesson I’ve learned is that success comes from resilience and a willingness to step outside the comfort zone. My brand embodies the belief that it’s never too late to change your life. I want the world to know that I went from struggling to make ends meet to becoming my family’s first millionaire. Now, I’m here to teach others how they can also turn their lives around, using tools and strategies that can be learned faster than any school course and applied no matter where they are.

I want my story and brand to inspire others, especially those who feel stuck in a system that doesn’t serve them.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Here’s a dream week-long itinerary for a Southern California trip with my best friend that includes the best food, beaches, and activities to make the most of SoCal’s vibe:

Day 1: Beach Day in Malibu

Morning:

• Breakfast at Malibu Farm on the Malibu Pier – Start with fresh acai bowls or avocado toast with ocean views.

Afternoon:

• Spend the day at Zuma Beach for sunbathing, surfing, and people-watching.
• Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), stopping at overlooks for photos.

Evening:

• Dinner at Nobu Malibu – A must for incredible sushi and cocktails by the water. Book ahead; the oceanfront view is unmatched!

Day 2: Hollywood & Beverly Hills

Morning:

• Breakfast at Republique in Mid-City – Known for unique pastries and the Insta-worthy French toast.
• Head to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre for iconic Hollywood sights.

Afternoon:

• Hike up to the Hollywood Sign or explore Runyon Canyon for breathtaking views of LA.
• Stroll down Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills for luxury shopping or window-shopping.

Evening:

• Dinner at Catch LA in West Hollywood – A celebrity hotspot with great ambiance and rooftop views.

Day 3: Santa Monica & Venice Beach

Morning:

• Breakfast at Blue Bottle Coffee in Venice, then stroll through Abbot Kinney Blvd. for unique shops and murals.

Afternoon:

• Head to Santa Monica Pier for classic carnival vibes – try the Ferris wheel for views of the coastline.
• Walk or bike along Venice Beach Boardwalk to watch the street performers, skateboarders, and Muscle Beach athletes.

Evening:

• Dinner at Gjelina in Venice – Known for incredible pizzas and a rustic vibe.

Day 4: Downtown LA Arts & Culture

Morning:

• Brunch at Grand Central Market – So many food options, like Eggslut or Tacos Tumbras a Tomas.
• Visit The Broad Museum for contemporary art (free entry but reserve tickets) and see the famous Infinity Mirrored Room.

Afternoon:

• Check out the Arts District for galleries, breweries, and incredible street art.
• Take photos at the Walt Disney Concert Hall and explore the Los Angeles Central Library for its beautiful architecture.

Evening:

• Dinner at Bestia in the Arts District – A trendy Italian spot known for amazing pastas.

Day 5: San Diego Day Trip

Morning:

• Drive down to San Diego and start with breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla.
• Head to La Jolla Cove to see the sea lions, tide pools, and go snorkeling or kayaking.

Afternoon:

• Visit Balboa Park for stunning gardens, museums, and Spanish-style architecture.
• Stop at Little Italy for fresh pasta and gelato.

Evening:

• Return to LA, or stay for dinner at George’s at the Cove in La Jolla if you want to see the sunset before heading back.

Day 6: Disneyland Day

All Day:

• Disneyland and Disney California Adventure in Anaheim – A full day of rides, parades, and magic. Make sure to catch the fireworks show and try the churros and Dole Whip for iconic snacks.

Dinner:

• End with dinner at Blue Bayou inside Disneyland, overlooking the Pirates of the Caribbean ride.

Day 7: Relaxing Day & Shopping in Orange County

Morning:

• Brunch at Lido Marina Village in Newport Beach – Think trendy brunch with waterfront views.

Afternoon:

• Relax on Newport Beach or Huntington Beach and catch the surf culture.
• Shop at South Coast Plaza or stroll through Fashion Island for a luxe shopping experience.

Evening:

• Dinner at Javier’s in Newport Beach – Stylish Mexican cuisine with ocean views, perfect to wrap up the trip.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There is no specific person I would love to give a shout out to because I believe it takes a village to raise someone. You see growing up, I moved house to house every 2-3 years. At the age of 18 I was out on my own, sleeping at friends houses, my car, or even hotels for months before I got to where I am today. I want to give a shout out to everyone that has played a role in my life no matter how big or small. Between my family, friends, and business partners I met along the way, I truly believe each and every interaction has served a major purpose in my life. I wouldn’t have a reason to keep going and growing daily.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/topflightwealthmari/profilecard/?igsh=MWQ1ZGUxMzBkMA==

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@mariceljennedy?si=gauffXFicl-2cWYu

Other: Main Instragram: https://www.instagram.com/mariceljennedy/profilecard/?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Image Credits
Maricel Rivers