We had the good fortune of connecting with Valerie Carboni and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Valerie, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Love and perseverance. When I decided to start my own business, I did so because I knew that was what would make me truly happy. In order to take on your own business, you really have to love it. And I do love what I do with the bubbly car. I can make people smile, bring joy to their lives, and do it all as an independent business owner. But there are days when it is hard, and the love of the business doesn’t take you through. That’s where perseverance comes in. I have to really convince myself on a daily basis that what I’m doing is what I love to do, and even when I face challenges, I can take on anything that comes my way.
What should our readers know about your business?
My business, the bubbly car, is just starting out. I was actually hoping to launch in 2020, but by the time I was ready, the pandemic hit. That has been one of my biggest challenges thus far, but I like to think of it as a blessing in disguise. While the economy was recovering and people were not holding as many events, I took the time to learn and develop my business in the right way. I leveraged my strengths in marketing by building out my website, social media profiles, and making connections. I’ve developed a brand that is not just a vendor service who provides mobile bar rentals, but also as a helpful advocate to event planners and hosts. I post weekly cocktail recipes, develop blog content for brides-to-be, and share helpful tips for party hosts.
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 like to say that I’m outdoorsy…in that I like to drink on patios. So most of my ideal itinerary would involve eating and drinking around the city! Straight from the airport, I would take my guest to Little Italy. First to Carruth Wine Garden for a glass of red wine and a cheese board on their lovely outdoor patio. Then, we could go eat at Crack Shack or one of the many wonderful Italian restaurants in the neighborhood. The next day, I would take them for some sight-seeing and, of course, beach time. I love to visit Coronado for the wide, open beach space. After a long walk, we would end up at Hotel Del Coronado for a drink and some photo opps. Then, I would take them to Miguel’s Cocina for their famous cheese dip and a margarita. Finally, I would show them downtown so we could do some walking and shopping. And for the best city views, we would end the tour with a trip to a rooftop bar. I personally love The Nolen!
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?
My friends and the owners of De Nada Kitchen & Market in University Heights, San Diego. They have been incredibly supportive of the bubbly car and have shown me the ropes in how to start my own catering business. I also support them by helping with their social media marketing. Check us out on instagram @denadasandiego!
Website: www.bubblycar.com
Instagram: @thebubblycar
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebubblycar
Other: https://www.pinterest.com/thebubblycar