Today we’d like to introduce you to Ann Marie Marvin.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I served in the US Navy for 6 years as a Surface Warfare Officer. Though I have a degree in Marine Biology, I was discouraged with the lack of opportunity for leadership. At the time I worked near another Postal Connections in Chula Vista and I got to know the owner and the industry somewhat. When I decided to go into business for myself, I spoke with the franchise. I spoke to others a well, but Postal Connections was small, family oriented, and interested more in a partnership with their franchisees than others. I started my store about the time we had our first child, over 8 years ago now.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It’s certainly not been a smooth road, but most things worth having aren’t. There were issues with finding a location and, in addition to bonding with my child, I was also finishing up my MBA. Then there were the normal struggles associated with learning your marketplace and serving your community. Three years ago, we had to change locations which led to a renewed struggle to make sure the community knew where we were. My customers have always been wonderful to me, and I’m so happy they stuck with me through the move.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
We have several areas of specialty including packaging and shipping, printing (including large prints such as banners and posters and canvas), mailbox rental (both physical and digital), and business services (faxing, scanning, and copying).
We are known for our fast transactions. Our software gives us the ability to process a shipment for the customer without them having to wait while we package it up and reweigh. We also offer e-mail notifications for tracking and delivery.
These are all important things, but what really sets us apart, what we hear most often is “you make it so EASY!” and so this is often the motivation behind all of our offerings. “Will it make life easier for the customer?”
We also enjoy experimenting with new innovative ways to serve. To this end, we have recently added a 3D printer for customer use.
What were you like growing up?
This is an interesting question because about 6 months ago, I did a course to find my “why”, or the motivation behind everything I do and am passionate about. I was painfully shy growing up, smart but not a natural genius. I was involved in a lot, which probably helped me bloom: I was a Girl Scout, I took piano lessons, I sang in the choir (and still do). I had a few friends, but they were very good lifelong friends.
I also went through a period in Middle School where I was pretty consistently and heavily bullied. I believe that led to my decision to volunteer with foster kids as an adult, adopt 2 children to grow our family, and it led to my why. My why is to joyfully serve others so they feel safe, respected, and loved. I believe this came directly from being bullied as I never wanted anyone else to feel that way again.
The US Navy contributed a lot to curing me of my shyness, but I am and always have been quick to anger if I see someone being taken advantage of.
Contact Info:
- Address: 4231 Balboa Ave
San Diego, CA 92117 - Website: www.postalsandiego.com
- Phone: 858-483-1909
- Email: pca226@postalconnections.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/postalsandiego
Image Credit:
Ann Marie Marvin
Winifred Dobbs
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