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

Hi Theresa, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I always go with my intuition and I’ve been known to make big decisions very abruptly. For instance, I had a career as a hairdresser in my early 20’s and managed a salon in Pacific Beach. One day while jogging on the boardwalk I started thinking about my future and within ½ hour I had decided to quit my job and go back to college. I enrolled the next day. If something feels right, I plunge ahead and I think a lot of people would think that would be risky. I quit my software career of 25 years to focus on my business and took a huge drop in income to do so. But, I knew it would be the only way I would make it, so I took the leap. I love change and embrace the journey into the unknown!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I own a small boutique style business specializing in personalized handmade jewelry gifts. What sets me apart (and what I’m most excited about) are my gift giving options. After my customers select a piece of jewelry, they can then select from over 60 jewelry cards (which is what I place the jewelry on) that I’ve created for all occasions and relationships. I have cards for holidays, special messages for mothers, daughters, sisters, granddaughters, etc. I’ve recently added inspirational and encouragement cards. My favorite right now are my ‘quarantine-themed’ cards that include messages such as ‘Sending you Socially-Distant Birthday Hugs’. This gives my customers the ability to send a heartfelt gift with an added personal touch. I try to keep my cards simple and light-hearted. They speak to the present moment and allows us to stay connected, especially during these difficult times. It’s really been just hard work and determination that I’ve gotten to where I am today. When I first quit my corporate job, my sales were only about $2000 per month. 6 years later, my sales are now in the 6 figures and continue to grow each year. The biggest lesson I’ve learned about running my own business is that you have to ride through the rough times and recognize that there will always be ups-n-downs in your business. I’m constantly saying to myself – “This too shall pass!”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’ve lived in San Diego my entire life (born and raised), so I tend to forego the touristy areas and look for the more laid-back, local interests. If I wanted to show someone a typical San Diego day, I would rent bikes in Mission Beach, ride along the boardwalk and bayside bar hopping. A stop at a local mexican fast food (Robertos style) would be a must too. Just a lazy, relaxed day at the beach.

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 have to give a big shout-out to my husband of 30 years! He has always been so supportive of my career and business, even when I surprised him one morning and told him I was quitting my 6-figure corporate career to pursue my passion for my jewelry business. He is a high school teacher & track coach – I’ve never seen anyone work as hard as he does and his dedication to teaching is so inspirational.

Website: http://TheresaRoseDesigns.com
Instagram: @TheresaRoseDesigns

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.