Meet Shelby Wells Islas | Owner of Picky Picnics

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shelby Wells Islas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shelby, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind the success of Picky Picnics is the concept of creating an all in one pop up event that is affordable and accessible to anyone. I believed I could create beautiful and memorable events while making it completely stress free for the clients. Party planning involves thinking of many little details, from the decor and location, to what guests will eat, drink and experience. I love creating a set up for a client so that they can fully enjoy their special day and not worry about anything down to the clean up afterwards. I also emphasize my flexibility on pricing and I will work with any client to find a package within their budget. I come from a Latino household and we are very family oriented, so Picky Picnics is based on making connections and celebrating moments with the people that you love most.

What should our readers know about your business?
Picky Picnics is a pop up picnic service in San Diego, I provide luxury timed set ups at public locations or homes for clients. I am currently operating at a 20 guest capacity, and I have done all kinds of events from baby showers and birthday parties to proposals, anniversaries and holiday celebrations. One thing that sets my business apart from others is my pricing, I believe that picnics can be beautifully arranged yet reasonably priced. My pricing flexibility is intended to target younger people and families looking for a memorable event that fits their budget. I ran into many obstacles along the way, but I have overcome them thanks to the support from those around me and the drive I have to succeed. I have learned that in order to build my business I have to be patient, determined and willing to make connections and get out of my comfort zone. I want every picnic set up to reflect the passion I have for event planning. I truly get so much joy from coordinating and I hope my clients recognize this through the details.

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 was visiting San Diego, I would first take her to lunch at Petrini’s, a family owned restaurant in Little Italy. After, we would go to Sunset Cliffs, my personal favorite spot, and I would set up a picnic for her overlooking the water. For dinner we would go to Fortunate Son Chinese and we would stop for drinks right next door at Polite Provisions. We would spend the week tanning at La Jolla beaches, visiting the Liberty Station market and taking pottery classes there. I would take her on a ferry ride from Coronado Island to Sea Port Village, and we would visit thrift stores in North Park. Lastly, I would take her on a hike to Potato Chip Mountain.

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 like to thank my business partner and mom, Wendy, my family and every amazing friend that has helped me set up a picnic. And thank you to my clients who have supported me and my dream. You have all made this whole process so rewarding and fulfilling.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/picky.picnics/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/picky.picnics

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@pickypicnics?_t=8WnESIcBEoI&_r=1

Image Credits
Kortnee Ledezma