Today we’d like to introduce you to Lorena Vergara.
Lorena, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Becoming a “foodie” and starting an IG page was one of those moments when it was like, hmm, let me try this for fun and see what comes of it. Friends were always telling me, hey you’re always out and about trying new places, you should share! So, I did and never did I realize how much I was going to enjoy it, how many wonderful people I’ve connected with, great places I continue to be fortunate enough to visit and the delicious food, of course!! It’s one of those things for me as a full-time working single mom that brings definite fun outside of my 9-5 and mom life. I’m a native San Diegan and I love to share all the different places I try not only locally but on the little travel I sometimes get to do. I by far am not a food critic, I only truly share what I love and enjoy. Whether it’s a brand new big restaurant/venue or a smaller old one that has gone unnoticed, and is a must share for all to see or visit. I have an appreciation for all different types of food, drinks and locations. I love supporting all our local businesses. I really do enjoy sharing my foodie adventures and meeting new people. Being a foodie continues to bring me wonderful connections and even motivates me to hopefully pursue the dream of owning my own business in the food industry in the future!
Has it been a smooth road?
Obstacles in this who most see as a hobby would probably be making the time to post, maintain connections, go to events and remain active in the foodie world. I do have a full-time job and I am a mom, so schedules don’t always allow me to attend as many events as I would like to. But because I do enjoy it so much, I try to make the most of it. I sometimes end up jam-packing the weekend and visiting many spots/events. Although, sometimes it just naturally works out, the food I come across or post about has made its way into my routine day! I’m also lucky enough to include my kiddo in some of my foodie adventures as well. He loves it. My advice for those new foodies out there, don’t make it about getting all the likes on the gram or mimicking others posts or pictures, make it YOUR own, make it about what YOU enjoy and want to share with others out there to see. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at what comes of it!
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
So, I am in a totally different line of work in comparison to being a fun foodie, that’s for sure. I’ve worked in an administrative position with Law Enforcement for over 10 years. A very fast paced, high stress, deadline driven, behind the scenes type of position. Being a foodie outside of my career with law enforcement is that stress reliever! I guess you can say I get that life fun factor to look forward to and truly enjoy. My career path intentions when in college were at first to actually pursue something in the Public Relations/Journalism field, but then life happens and you end up stumbling upon a totally different career path, where I still continue to grow after all these years. I think it’s so important to always do something for yourself, that sparks joy and fun no matter what. As cliché as that may sound, it just is and being a foodie is one those things that does that for me. We get so busy in our everyday routines that we still often put off that much needed me time. I love what being a foodie has brought me, that extra little fun and being able to share my adventures with friends, old and new, the wonderful connections and opportunities I am so grateful for and value. I was born and raised in San Diego and still find myself encountering places I never even knew about! Always a gem our beautiful City!!
It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
Jay Shetty is one of my favorite podcasts at the moment. Such a great motivational speaker for all areas in life.
Contact Info:
- Email: SDcazualfoodie@gmail.com
- Instagram: SDcazualfoodie
Getting in touch: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
