Today we’d like to introduce you to Sara & Daniel Collins.
Hi Sara & Daniel, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Our story began in college, where we met as engineering students—drawn together by a shared love of problem-solving, creativity, and ambition. That foundation didn’t just lead to degrees—it led to a partnership for life. After graduation, we got jobs, we got married, had two beautiful daughters, and pursued our Master’s degrees.
Over the years, we’ve built more than 20 years of combined experience in business operations and international product management. We worked in corporate and technical environments, which gave us a strong foundation in strategy, systems, and leadership. But over time, we both started to feel the pull toward something more personal – a desire to build something that we could share with our two young daughters and that made an impact in our own community.
Like many others with small children, our world shifted with the arrival of COVID. The demands of corporate life no longer fit the rhythm of a family trying to navigate daycare pick-ups, unpredictable fevers, and quiet afternoons full of giggles and messy crafts. That season made one thing clear: something had to give. We made the decision that was best for our family— Sara stepped away from her corporate role to focus on raising the girls.
It wasn’t an easy choice, but it was the right one. And through it all, the fire to create, to build something of our own, never went away. Now that the girls are older, that inner drive has only grown stronger. That’s when we knew—it was time to leap.
That opportunity came when we took over ShareTea Scripps Mesa in San Diego. At first, it was about running a good business and serving great teas. But it quickly became clear that it could be much more than that. We began to reimagine the shop as a community space – a platform to support students and the local community.
Now, every decision we make – whether it’s hiring or collaborating – is rooted in our shared belief that small businesses can shape culture and create real impact. That’s how we got here: by blending our professional experience, starting a business, and now evolving it into a platform for collaboration, culture and connection in San Diego. And while the business is young and it’s not perfect, it’s ours—and that makes it more meaningful than we ever imagined.
Alright, 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?
Oh! It has been a bumpy road. One of the earliest and biggest struggles for us was simply figuring out where to start. We knew we wanted to become business owners—we were both passionate about building something of our own—but selecting the right business wasn’t obvious. There are a lot of options out there, and not all of them align with your values, your lifestyle, or your long-term goals.
We spent a lot of time evaluating opportunities, but it wasn’t until we found ShareTea that things really clicked. It wasn’t just a business—it was a chance to build something rooted in community, creativity, and family. That alignment with our values and the direction we wanted for our life was critical.
Once we got started, we quickly learned how much first-time business owners have to juggle. You’re suddenly wearing every hat—business development, accountant, marketer, HR, supply chain manager, janitor—and trying to keep all the pieces moving without dropping the ball. It’s a steep learning curve, even with our combined background in business operations and product management the restaurant business is fast-paced and constantly changing, requiring adaptability and quick decision-making to stay ahead.
There are many operational challenges when owning a business, but maybe the most difficult part is the emotional side—when you care deeply about what you’re building, the highs and lows are intense. Every win feels amazing, but the setbacks can be tough to carry.
What’s helped us push through is our partnership—both, in marriage and in business—and the support we’ve received from our friends and the local community. Finding a business that fits your values makes all the difference when things get hard. Because when you’re building something that feels right, you’re more likely to keep going, even when the path isn’t easy.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about ShareTea Scripps Mesa?
ShareTea Scripps Mesa is the go-to destination for tea in the Scripps Ranch, Mira Mesa, and Poway areas. We serve milk tea, fruit tea, matcha, coffee, and classic boba drinks that are all made to order with authentic high-quality ingredients. Located in the heart of Scripps Ranch – close to Mira Mesa and Poway – we’re proud to be a top-rated boba shop in the 92131 zip code. Whether you’re craving a fresh tea infused with fruit flavors or a creamy brown sugar pearl milk tea, we’ve got the perfect drink for you and your kids. Stop by for dine-in, takeout, or delivery. You can enjoy ShareTea however it fits your day.
Beyond great drinks, what truly sets us apart is our commitment to community and values-driven business. We’re proud to be accredited by the Better Business Bureau BBB which reflects our dedication to ethical business practices, transparency, and doing what’s right – for our customers, employees, and neighborhood.
Our store stands for more than just great drinks. We are actively engaged in the local community, participating in and sponsoring events like Quick n Dirty MTB Racing Kid’s Night, 4S Ranch Little League end of year celebration, San Diego 4th of July 5k. We’ve also hosted Sip & Sketch events at our shop, catered special events, and love finding creative ways to bring people together.
We proudly partner with Force4Good.org to support local schools and nonprofits with fundraising and amplify their impact in the region. Whether it’s through financial support or simply offering a space to connect, we believe in using our platform for good.
Another core part of our mission is creating a positive, flexible, and supporting work environment. We employ college and high school students and young adults offering them a fun and rewarding job while encouraging work-life balance – so they have time for their families, studies, and personal growth. Watching our team learn, lead, and grow has become one of the most meaningful aspects of running this business.
At ShareTea Scripps Mesa, we’re not just pouring drinks – we’re pouring into our community. We invite everyone to stop by and experience it for themselves.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Yes—first, take your time choosing the right business for you. We knew we wanted to become business owners, but finding the right opportunity that aligned with our family values and long-term goals wasn’t easy. We looked at several options before deciding on something that felt like a natural extension of who we are and what we care about. Don’t rush that decision—your business should reflect your lifestyle, your strengths, and your purpose.
Second, expect things to be harder—and more rewarding—than you imagined. You’ll have days that test your patience, your confidence, and your energy. But the sense of ownership and the ability to shape something meaningful is worth it. Keep your “why” front and center—it’s what will get you through the tough days.
We also wish we had known how important it is to build a support network early on. Connect with other small business owners, lean on your local community, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. You don’t have to figure everything out alone.
And lastly, don’t underestimate the value of your team. Investing in your people—from training to creating a healthy work culture—makes all the difference. We’re proud of the work environment we’re building at ShareTea Scripps Mesa, and it’s a big part of why our shop feels different to customers.
Starting a business is a leap of faith and it’s also freedom. If you stay grounded in your values, remain open to learning, and surround yourself with people that share the same goals in life, it becomes one of the most fulfilling journeys you can take—especially for moms seeking the flexibility to grow professionally without the pressure or guilt of missing out on precious moments with their kids. It provides freedom. Freedom to raise our children with presence. Freedom to bring our kids to work—and let them grow up watching their parents build something meaningful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.1992sharetea.com/local-store?storeName=Scripps%20Mesa
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharetea_scripps_mesa
- Other: https://share.google/h9NVqC6TWwHfFLfKW
Image Credits
Paint Event Led by Maya Roars – Jamie Consolo
San Diego 4th of July 5K
Quick n Dirty MTB Kids Night, Lake Hodges
4S Ranch Little League End of Year Celebration
Sharetea
Birthday Beach Party, Moonlight Beach Encinitas
