Today we’d like to introduce you to Cecilia Sanchez.
Cecilia, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
In or around 1994, I found myself a divorced, single mother of three boys, I needed a way to provide financially for my family and still be present, which for me meant being there in the morning when they woke up, to taking them to school and being there to pick them up after. I had a friend that was working for Senior citizens cleaning their houses and she gave me the idea that I may be able to do something similar and create a company for myself, so that I could earn a living and still be there for my family. In the beginning, it was just myself cleaning but then soon after I had to hire another person and then the company continued to grow. It has been 24 years and I now have a solid business where I am able to own my own home, help my children with college and even provide work for others. I am very grateful to live in such a beautiful city and for everything that I have achieved. I am truly blessed.
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?
As an immigrant, born and raised in Mexico, when I came to the United States, I had to learn the language and learn even simple tasks, like how to drive in the U.S., and in the beginning, I had to learn the ins and outs of the way things work here, one of my struggles was learning how to clean properly and efficiently. I had no money to invest in my business, so I worked hard and eventually, I found a company that was willing to give me a small business loan.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Cecilia’s Cleaning Services story. Tell us more about the business.
We provide cleaning services, to realtors, homeowners, property management companies, however, we are known for specializing in vacation rentals, and vacancies. As the face of the company I believe it is important to be present in the day to day business, and in doing so, I have created a boutique business where I am communicating with not only my long-term clientele but the single family who wants a one-time spring cleaning. This has allowed me to keep long-term relationships with my clients, which I am very proud of.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
When I was first looking for a loan for my business, I came across a company called “Accion San Diego”. I was lucky because they were looking for small businesses to help, I happen to be there at the right time and my business has flourished in part because of this. I also feel very lucky to have met some wonderful long term clients that have become family and they are very loyal and always willing to refer other customers and help me in any way they can.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.socaltrusted.org/ceciliascleaningservices
- Phone: 619-248-5238
- Email: ceciliascleaningservices59@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ceciliascleaningservices/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/cecilias-cleaning-service-el-cajon
Image Credit:
Spark the Heart Photography (Kaitlin Lopez, Owner)
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