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

Hi Tammy, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
I think this one is simple when I sit down and really think about it. It comes down to one question – Am I done here? When things seemed impossible and we had nowhere to turn, we still strongly felt like this wasn’t all we could’ve done, all the impact we could’ve made, and there was always the potential still left to be had sitting right in front of us on the table. Trying times forced me to pick between my full-time career and my new business. Normally I would’ve picked the safer, more stable route, but this time, I picked the riskier route because IvyMay was my baby and I wanted to watch her continue to grow and learn to walk. So I left my corporate career to get rid of my safety net to really hit the ground running.

What should our readers know about your business?
We did what most would consider a bad decision during such an unstable time with the state of the world in 2020. But, we truly believe that the best things grow from the toughest times. This business has brought us much closer to so many new people that we would’ve never met otherwise, ESPECIALLY in such a socially distant era. I’ve learned the meaning of freedom to test and learn, to be innovative, to move quick & break things – all while building a sense of community. IvyMay has been the hardest path I’ve ever taken in life, but it’s also the most rewarding.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Back before COVID hit, being a San Diego guide tour for my friends was my jam! Depending on whether they have a dog or not, I’d plan the itinerary around pet-friendly places and activities. I’m a hardcore dog mom and fully believe that our pups should be involved as much as possible. Here are a few: El Prez Pacific Beach – you can’t beat those vibes, the music & that sunset view on the top of El Prez! San Diego Bay Adventures – Kayaking and Jet Skiing is a must in San Diego. It’s so exhilarating being out in open water. Jetski if you like going full speed for the thrill, though. Harumama Buns & Noodles – Harumama has the cutest character buns and their food is amazing. Torrey Pines State Beach – It’s nice to change it up from your typical hike and take a beach hike. La Jolla Cove – Sea lions are a must to see.  

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Our family who helped us through these tough times, our friends, our customers who became business partners and our mentors. We couldn’t have kept our sanity without them and we appreciate their support, no matter how big or small. And of course, my business partners, Cody, my co-founder and other half, and Thaimae, a customer who turned into a great friend and business partner.

Website: www.ivymayco.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ivymay.co
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammy-nguyen-5a792442/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ivymay.co/

Image Credits
Photography by John Onelio Tess Laureen Photography Aesthetic Theory Inc.

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.