Today we’d like to introduce you to Xochitl Salcido.
Xochitl, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My journey began when I became a mother, six months into my new marriage, I found out I was pregnant and all my dreams came true. At the time, I was working for a pharmaceutical company and I wanted nothing more to stay home and care for my child. We made it happen, I left my full-time office job to be a stay at home mom. But, as life tends to be, the dream doesn’t always pan out the way you imagine. Suddenly, the sober husband I once knew, turned back to alcohol, which drained our resources and began tearing apart our relationship.
Desperate for community and support, I applied to be a volunteer writer for a new mom’s blog launching in San Diego. When I made the team, I was overjoyed, truth be told I was getting stir crazy sitting at home. After the first event, I approached the owner and asked if she needed help planning any future events. She offered me a position on staff as her Events Director and together, we began to plan our first big Moms Night Out. I reached out to over 100 local businesses, it was a hard sell, we were the new kids in town, still working on growing a presence in the community. After months of planning the event, it was a bust, my marriage was declining and I was discouraged, but I was also determined to push forward.
A few years later, I was flying high, the Blog started to flourish, the events were becoming increasingly successful and my personal influence on social media was growing, but the abuse was dragging me down into a pit of despair and my mental health was quickly declining. Right around that time, the Blog was purchased by another Mom and little did I know, she would be the angel on earth, that would get me through the most devastating time in my life.
Which brings me to the present, if it wasn’t for her friendship and encouragement, not too sure what I would be doing. I’m now a single mom and determined than ever to heal, grow and succeed.
The best part about the blog is being part of the supportive community of moms, all from different backgrounds and situations, but sharing the struggles and joys of motherhood.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like any new venture, there have been various challenges I needed to overcome.
My biggest struggle was being able to press forward, while I was being dragged down by a toxic marriage. There were many times where I just wasn’t sure if I could continue on. Transitioning into being a single mom has come with its own set of struggles, but at this point, I’m convinced nothing will ever stop me.
The best advice I can give for someone starting their journey is to go into it with a spirit of collaboration over competition. Do not be afraid to ask for help. Find other women who will rally around you and support you. We can’t do this alone, we all need a tribe.
Please tell us about San Diego Moms Blog.
San Diego Moms Blog publishes more than content, we advertise local businesses on our social media platforms, publish specialized guides and host various events throughout the year.
I’m most proud of how much the Blog has grown since launch. When I came on, there were only two of us on staff, now there are nine Executive Team members. Our social media and community presence has grown tremendously as well.
The thing that sets us apart from the rest is we are more than a blog, we are a Parenting Resource. We offer our readers and sponsors a full experience, from online content to giveaways and special offers. As well as the opportunity to participate in various events ranging from workshop/ business focused to playdates to community events.
Who have you been inspired by?
The most influential woman in my life, hands down is my Grandmother. As a single mother, she married and came to America, in search of a better life for my mother.
When she lost her husband, she was left as a single mother of three, with minimal English skills, no employment and a mortgage. She persevered with a humble spirit and strong faith.
She taught me the regardless of your humble beginnings, you can overcome if you never give up.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sandiego.citymomsblog.com/
- Phone: 619-253-0053
- Email: events@sandiegomomsblog.com
- Instagram: @mom.life_with.u
- Facebook: @SanDiegoMomsBlog
- Other: @sandiegomomsblog
Image Credit:
Linette Gary Photography, Crystella Photography
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