Meet Nikki Hernandez | She-eo

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nikki Hernandez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nikki, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
My business didn’t turn out the way I expected when I first started. Being the creative one in my family, I was always in charge of party decorations. In August 2022, I bought a Cricut machine to make my life easier, and within a week, I started creating cups, decor, and more. The positive response from friends and family motivated me to continue. What I always strive for is to infuse my personality into my work. Seeing people happy with the items I make brings me immense joy. Choosing the name “Vibe with Nikki” was easy because it reflects my laid-back, hustling, and kind nature. I want people to join me and just vibe together.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I became a full-time business owner only recently, in November 2023. Prior to starting Vibe with Nikki, I was working as a counselor in mental health while juggling my entrepreneurial aspirations. Although I thoroughly enjoyed my work as a counselor, my health took a turn, making it impossible for me to continue with a traditional 9-5 job. However, this unexpected change turned out to be a blessing in disguise. I have always felt a deep calling to create, and now I have the opportunity to channel all my energy into my business, which has proven to be incredibly therapeutic for me.

What sets me apart from others in my field is that I don’t view them as competition. I understand that there are numerous individuals who do what I do, and I genuinely cheer for their success. Instead of comparing myself to others, I focus on being true to myself and staying in my own lane. Additionally, I am unafraid to take up space and confidently showcase what I bring to the table. I consistently deliver high-quality products and infuse my unique personality into everything I do. Although this journey has had its fair share of challenges and obstacles, it is undeniably rewarding. I have encountered numerous roadblocks along the way and have had to readjust my plans multiple times. However, I have always been willing to seek guidance from others, take a step back, and then continue working towards my goals. My personal journey as a recovering alcoholic/addict, being sober for 15 years, and being a mother to four wonderful children and a stepdaughter, as well as a grandmother to nine amazing grandkids, has equipped me with the resilience and strength to overcome adversity. In addition to growing Vibe with Nikki, I have recently started hosting pop-up markets under the name Best Vibe Markets. This venture serves as a platform to foster a sense of community among small business owners.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my family comes to visit me from my hometown of Missouri, we always have a set list of things we absolutely have to do. First and foremost, hitting the beach is a must. We start off by heading to Ocean Beach in San Diego, where we soak up the sun and enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze. After that, we make our way to Malibu, where the stunning coastline and picturesque views never fail to impress. And of course, we can’t forget about the iconic Santa Monica Pier, with its lively atmosphere and thrilling rides.

Another essential stop on our itinerary is a trip to Big Bear. I personally adore spending weekends there, as the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. The mountains and forests provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Plus, there’s no shortage of charming shops and boutiques for some fun shopping. When it comes to satisfying our hunger, we always make a beeline for Tony’s Tacos, a cozy little taco spot near my house in Azusa. Their mouthwatering tacos never disappoint, and it’s become a family favorite.

In addition to all the sightseeing and delicious food, we also make sure to have a family gathering during their visit. We fire up the grill and prepare a feast of carne asada, chicken asada, rice, beans, and guacamole. It’s a time for everyone to come together, relax, and enjoy each other’s company. If there happens to be a baseball or football game in town, we try to catch it as well, as we all enjoy a good sporting event.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Let me start by saying, my husband is truly incredible. In 2020, I was hit with both Covid and Melanoma simultaneously, and my life hasn’t been the same since. Throughout this challenging journey, my husband has been my rock, my caregiver, and my biggest supporter. His unwavering love and support have shown me a whole new side of him. I honestly believe that without him, I wouldn’t be coping as well as I am now. Louie, I love you and I will forever be grateful for everything you do for me.

Website: https://vibewithnikkillc.myshopify.com/

Instagram: vibewithnikki_shop

Facebook: shopvibewithnikki