An Inspired Chat with Vanessa Valencia of San Diego

Vanessa Valencia shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Vanessa, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Currently being a part of the Chula Vista Farmers Market community has brought me so much joy. It has been the highlight of my year. I always wanted to be a part of it and this year I was able to make it happen. I’ve gotten to meet so many incredible vendors, customers and staff. Being able to sell my custom sugar cookies every couple Sundays makes me happy, it’s what I look forward to on the weekends.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Vanessa, I’m the owner and operator of Nessa’s Goodies. I specialize in custom decorated sugar cookies for all occasions. I have a full time job but make time for my cookie business after work and on weekends. What makes my business special is I make little works of art that happen to be edible. Not only can you eat them. I have had the pleasure of making some cookies to be used as wall art. I myself have a couple cookies hanging in frames in my living room.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
That my art would never amount to anything. Art doesn’t pay bills. Well my edible art may not make me millions but it’s definitely paid some bills and even a European trip lol.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self how proud I am of her for never giving up. For sticking around and achieving everything she has so far.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely lol. I believe in always being your authentic self.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Absolutely. I do this because it makes me happy. When I started making cookies I did it for fun, it made me happy. It gave me an outlet for my creativity as well as a way to relieve work stress. As long as what I make brings me joy that’s all that matters. Do things with purpose and for your own happiness not to be praised.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://nessasgoodies.square.site/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/NessasGoodies/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nessasgoodies-256318511843425/