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

Hi Verdelle, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
While working in the corporate world, I realized that I was building someone else’s dream. I wanted to take my skills, experience, and knowledge and channel them into something that was truly mine.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I a life insurance agent with a passion for serving the underserved, particularly teachers and public employees, by helping them secure a better retirement. Too often, these hardworking individuals dedicate their lives to serving others but are left with little to no financial security when they retire. My mission is to change that by providing education, financial planning, and life insurance solutions that ensure they have a stable and comfortable future.

My journey is deeply personal—my mother was an immigrant who worked as a housemaid for military barracks, and her retirement is only $100 a month. Seeing her struggle made me realize the importance of financial planning and the impact it can have on a person’s quality of life. That’s why I’m committed to helping people, especially those who are often overlooked, build a future where they don’t have to worry about how they’ll make ends meet in retirement.

In addition to financial services, I also started a photo booth rental company—a business born out of my love for capturing special moments. Family history is important, and I believe in the power of photography to preserve memories for generations. Whether it’s a wedding, a birthday, or a retirement celebration, I want to help people create lasting memories that they can cherish forever.

What sets me apart? My passion for service. I don’t just sell insurance; I educate, empower, and advocate for my clients. I take pride in making sure they understand their options and feel confident in their financial future. With my photo booth business, it’s the same—I want people to feel the joy of looking back at moments that matter.

Was it easy? Not at all. There were times when I doubted myself, faced financial struggles, and had to push through rejection. But I stayed committed, knowing that my work was making a difference. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that persistence and purpose go hand in hand. When you truly believe in what you’re doing, challenges become stepping stones rather than roadblocks.

What do I want the world to know? My story is about resilience, service, and passion. Whether I’m helping someone plan for a secure retirement or capturing memories at an event, my goal is always the same—to make a lasting impact. My brand is built on helping people secure their future, whether financially or through the memories they create. That’s what drives me every day.

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?
If my best friend were visiting San Diego, I’d make sure they had an unforgettable experience packed with beautiful sights, amazing food, and fun activities. Here’s how I’d plan our ultimate San Diego itinerary:

Morning: Brunch at Morning Glory in Little Italy—great coffee, pink velvet seats, and the fluffiest pancakes.

Afternoon, Beach Day & rent jet skis at Mission Beach.

Evening: Dinner at Serẽa (located at the Hotel Del) for fresh seafood and oceanfront views. Then Downtown & Gaslamp Nightlife

San Diego has so much to offer—beaches, nightlife, outdoor adventures, and amazing food. This itinerary would definitely give my best friend an unforgettable experience!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I listen to a podcast that motivates me—Women of Wealth hosted by Allie Ramo and Hawley Woods. They empower women through their podcast, sharing insights, success stories, and valuable lessons that inspire me on my entrepreneurial journey. Their content has played a big role in shaping my mindset, pushing me to take risks, and reminding me of the power of resilience and confidence in business.

Who else deserves a little credit and recognition in my story? Honestly, every person who has ever shared their knowledge, lifted me up during tough times, or simply believed in my vision. Their support has been invaluable, and I’m truly grateful..

Website: https://appreciationfinancial.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photo_booth_4_memories?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verdelle-jones-35857463?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100011301301228&mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr

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