We asked some brilliant folks from the community to tell us about the most important lesson their business or career has taught them. We’ve shared some of those responses below.

Angie De Santiago | Owner /dog & cat stylist

I come from a small agricultural town in Northern California with a deep family legacy in the ranching industry. Growing up on my family’s ranch, I learned responsibility early on by caring for various animals like chickens, horses, cows, and numerous dogs. Guided by my grandpa and uncles, I was tasked with grooming, feeding, and providing overall animal care from a young age. Through my upbringing, I understood the value of hard work and balanced several different jobs throughout my teenage years to support my family. After eight years as a dispatcher for a cable company, I sought a more fulfilling career that aligned with my passion for animals. Transitioning to a veterinary office, I discovered grooming and quickly developed a keen interest in the field. I dedicated myself to learning everything about grooming and even did volunteer grooming at animal shelters to refine my skills. Graduating early from grooming school, I drew inspiration from my family’s entrepreneurial spirit to establish my own grooming business after 15 years in the industry. Read more>>

Erika Ellsworth | Market Owner & Crafter

I am born and raised here in San Diego. More specifically, I grew up in Chula Vista; which is why I wanted to start my market adventure here in Chula Vista. My upbringing was around lots of family and in a German folk dance group with friends who became family. This is why a lot of the vendors we have at our market are now like family. I love to be around people and love to talk to people and I know this has a lot to do with how I was raised and what we did as a family growing up. It’s one of the big reasons why I wanted to bring a family friendly market to Chula Vista. Read more>>

Carla Daniela | Wedding Dress Tailor

I am Carla Daniela, owner of the San Diego atelier Tailor Love that specializes in bridal alterations. I was born and raised in Azores, Terceira Island, Portugal. My dream as a child was to open my own atelier where I could create and help brides’ visions come to life, tailor wedding gowns and redesign vintage wedding dresses that are personalized and unique. Since I was a child, I started trading toys for the fabrics that would be left from my grandma Albertina’s sewing. I would transform them into specialty gowns, ball gowns, and wedding gowns. My taste for fashion, design and tailoring would grow through the years, and so would my knowledge by graduating in Fashion and Textile Design. In 2024 I am now celebrating 14 years of my vision at Tailor Love with happy brides looking their best. Read more>>