Today we’d like to introduce you to Mandeep Sethuram.
Hi Mandeep, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Hello! I grew up always dreaming of having a career that was creative, but I never thought it was possible since I was always taught that you’re meant to have jobs in more “realistic” fields, such as being a doctor or a lawyer. Traditionally, these are areas where you are assumed to make much more money and have ample job security. I ended up graduating college with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, but once I graduated I really didn’t know what to do next. I ended up moving to the Bay Area where I got a job in business development at a startup and continued to be in sales and client management for years later. I didn’t enjoy it, to be honest, and couldn’t figure out how to get out of the field since my resume only had sales experience on it. Luckily a random job was posted on the community board of the building I lived in for administrative support at a local accounting firm. I was so eager to get anything outside of sales that I jumped on it, and landed the job. While working there I decided to go back to school to get my Master’s in Public Administration, but quickly realized that I didn’t feel passionate about the field. I knew I had to find something that I actually enjoyed doing; I didn’t want to be another statistic of a person not happy at their job.
I always enjoyed working with flowers and spent some time learning how to properly arrange them so that I could start a floral business. While going through the process of learning how to arrange flowers I also realized that I loved creating table settings for my friends and family when we got together for special events. This led to me starting Tertulia, which is a micro event planning service. Through this company, I’d be able to work with flowers and also create table settings for clients, the best of both worlds! Originally the idea was to have it as a dinner party experience where people can rent out curated table settings for their event, but when I moved to San Diego in March I realized that picnics were really popular and that it’d be a great way to get my company off the ground. Although I still offer the dinner party experience, picnics have been the most popular aspect of my business. I officially launched five months ago and have steadily built a client base. I’ve absolutely loved every moment of it!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One of my biggest struggles has been launching my company in a city that I know no one in! I was very nervous about moving to San Diego and trying to get this off the ground while I did not have a network in place. I’m incredibly grateful and happy that I’ve had success so far and it makes me realize that I really can do something if I just put all my effort into it.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I create table settings for special occasions and events. I bring all of the decor and tableware so that my clients are able to truly enjoy their time without worrying about setting up and cleaning. I also partner with local small businesses that specialize in florals, charcuteries, baked goods, and items such as balloons.
I just feel lucky to be a part of all of my client’s events, it’s very gratifying when you’ve helped make someone’s day special.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
The best way to collaborate with me is to send me an email or message on Instagram and detailing how you’d like to collaborate!
The best way to support Tertulia is to just spread the word about our services. We appreciate any support that comes our way!
Pricing:
- Pricing starts at $190 for four people
Contact Info:
- Email: booktertulia@gmail.com
- Website: www.booktertulia.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tertulia._/
Image Credits:
Lauren Ogden Photography
