Meet Sophia Flores

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

Hi Sophia, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?
One of the most important habits that’s helped me succeed is setting clear boundaries with my time. I stick to defined working hours and don’t respond to messages or emails outside of them. That mental separation protects my energy and prevents burnout, which I’ve learned is so important when you’re running your own business.

I also prioritize rest. I take naps when I need them and never bring my laptop into my bedroom at night as a method to wind down. As a business owner, there is always something that needs to get done, planning future events, client communication, brainstorming new ideas, posting on social media and so on. In the beginning of my journey I would stay up late and wake up very earlier just to get things done. Not only was I exhausted but its was not sustainable in the long run. Stepping away and truly resting helps me reset and come back sharper and more focused.

As part of stepping away and disconnecting I make it a point to spend one full day a week being completely present (no emails, no phone) with my family and friends. This looks like grabbing lunch with a friend or taking my daughter to the beach and having a little picnic. Connecting with others truly helps me feel grounded especially during busy seasons.

Being outside is also a non-negotiable for me. I spend at least two hours a day outdoors and stretch daily. Sunshine and moving are so essential for my mental and physically well being especially since so much of my work happens behind a screen. All of these habits allow me to show up consistently, creatively, and with intention. They’ve been key to my growth and success, because they remind me that taking care of myself isn’t a break from the work… it’s what makes the work sustainable.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
This business took about a year to come into reality. Most of that time, admittedly, was spent going back and forth about whether if I should take the leap and invest in myself. When I finally said yes, it was unbelievably freeing.

It began with choosing the right builders for my cart (shoutout to Backdrop Builder for building the most beautiful cart). Then came the fun part, curating a menu. I spent a couple of months testing and sourcing different cheeses, charcuterie, and spread/honey options until I found the perfect combination of products. It only took as long as it did because I was committed to sourcing locally and supporting small producers. Nearly everything we use comes from California farms, markets, or small businesses.

After the menu, came all the paperwork and then slowly setting up our social media and finally booking our very first client. That moment changed everything.

What truly sets The Charcuterie Cart Co. apart are our offerings. While we offer classic favorites like cheddar, pepperoni, and salami, we also include specialty options like Alp Blossom, Port Wine Derby, lamb & beef, duck prosciutto, and more. I want our cart to be more than just a pretty food display. I want it to be a feature of the event. A conversation starter. A flavor journey.

We fully customize our carts for every event, down to the last detail, because I believe food should feel personal. That’s why we take our time getting to know our clients and why every menu looks a little different.

The best part is we’re just getting started. I’m so excited to be building a team of people who share this vision and to continue expanding across California. We’re currently serving Southern California, but we’re preparing to expand into Northern California by the end of the year.

Has it been easy? Absolutely not. There have been late nights, financial risks, cancellations, and moments of burnout. But I’ve learned that rest is just as important as hustle. I’ve learned to trust my gut, to ask for help, and to keep going even when things feel uncertain.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The first stop? The Cheese Store of Beverly Hills, it’s basically cheese heaven. Walls lined with every kind of specialty cheese imaginable, fresh-made pastas, and imported pantry gems you didn’t even know you needed. We’d grab two of their iconic sandwiches: La Marcella and Il Dominico, and snack while people-watching outside like true locals. Then for something sweet, we’d head to Hokey Pokey LA for creamy New Zealand-style ice cream.

On the weekend, we’d carve out a full day for Smorgasburg LA. First stop: Lobsterdamus for their Lobster Nest (crispy noodles, grilled lobster, pure flavor magic). Then over to Dumpling Dream for handmade dumplings that never miss. After that? We’re definitely refreshing with a lemonade from Queen Squeeze: Peach Kingdom or Strawberry Dynasty always hit. And of course, we’re ending with something sweet: maybe a gooey cinnamon roll from All About the Cinnamon or a treat from Bernie’s.

To slow down and recharge, we’d take a peaceful afternoon stroll through The Huntington Library.

For caffeine runs (because they’re daily), we’d stop by Sweet Memory inside Zarios Fresh Stop in Pico Rivera. I’d have them try the Matcha Cloud or Sesame Matcha. Honestly, this is one of those spots I go to monthly… okay, weekly.

For nights out, we’d hit up Death & Co or Bar Lis. The cocktails at both these places are unbelievable and the atmosphere is unmatched. We’d sip, snack, chat and stay way past our bedtime.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people I can think of that have impacted my life in one way or another, but I will mention a few names here. First and foremost, the person who deserves the greatest shout-out is my dad. He is the quiet strength behind so much of what I do. He’s the one who shows up without needing to be asked, who loads and unloads without complaint, and who helps me prepare for events even after a long day of work. I’ve lost count of how many early mornings and long nights he’s sacrificed just to support me. It’s not just the help, it’s the way he believes in me. I may have had the initial vision for this business but he his unwavering support is truly what sustains me.

I also want to thank my Uncle Carlos. The steady voice behind the scenes who reminds me to breathe when everything feels like too much. He sends weekly words of encouragement that guide my days. It amazes me how he always knows when to send a reminder that I’m doing enough and I’m not alone. Some of my most grounding conversations have been with him. I’m so thankful for the way he shows up with wisdom, calm, and heart.

I also want to give a big shoutout to my bestfriend Ernesto who’s pulled up to events without complaint, stood by me through the chaos, and supported me while I figured out how to build this business (and a team) from the ground up. He’s been there during the late nights, the early mornings, the last-minute runs. I’m forever thankful for him showing up for me over and over.

And to those unnamed: I truly appreciate every single conversation, every encouraging word, and every moment where someone simply let me ramble or brainstorm out loud. I remember it all. Your presence, even in small ways, helped shape this journey more than you know.

Website: https://www.thecharcuteriecartco.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecharcuteriecartco/?hl=en

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-charcuterie-cart-co-pico-rivera

Image Credits
Black & White Photo Credit: Debra Morrison Photography @debmophoto