We recently connected with Britney Ortiz and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Britney , thanks for joining us today. Before we get into specifics, let’s talk about success more generally. What do you think it takes to be successful?

Being genuinely passionate about something is key, not solely within the realm of business, but also in the broader scope of life. I truly believe that having a clear mission has been the driving force behind my business’s success.

After becoming more clear about our goals and allocating a portion of our profits towards our passion, which in our case was animal rescue, we noticed a significant surge in our profits. This wasn’t merely due to garnering empathy, but rather because we were championing a cause and striving toward a purpose that was beyond our own interest.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Britney Ortiz, the heart and soul behind Cats & Crystals. Let me take you back to how it all began.

Growing up, my mom and I shared a special bond over rescuing kittens on the euthanasia lists in our hometown. It was our way of making a difference, one furry friend at a time. After my mom passed away, I found solace and purpose in continuing our mission.

Starting small on Etsy, crafting jewelry and candles, I felt a spark. As our little business began to grow, I realized it had the potential to be something more than just a side gig. That’s when I decided to blend my two loves – rescuing cats and creating beautiful things.

Today, Cats & Crystals isn’t just a shop; it’s a haven for cat lovers and crystal enthusiasts alike. We’re still crafting handmade goodies, but now we’ve blossomed into a full-fledged gift shop. And the best part? With every purchase, you’re not just getting a unique piece, you’re also helping us support rescues all over San Diego. It’s a journey fueled by passion, love, and a whole lot of purrs.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I believe genuine passion for rescuing animals and crafting handmade products shines through in everything I do. Customers can sense your dedication to your cause, which fosters trust and loyalty. I also think my involvement in animal rescue efforts, both locally and beyond, demonstrates a commitment to making a positive impact. Customers are more likely to support a business that gives back to the community and shares their same values.

If you have multiple revenue streams in your business, would you mind opening up about what those streams are and how they fit together?

Yes, our business has diversified its revenue streams over time. We initially launched on Etsy, then expanded into hosting pop-up markets across our city, which gradually extended to San Diego, LA County, and even out-of-state events. Recognizing our growth potential, we further diversified by participating in county fairs throughout Southern California and currently, we’re looking into leasing our first building to establish a cat lounge in Oceanside, CA; adding another exciting dimension to our revenue streams!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.catsandcrystals.com
• Instagram: @catsndcrystals

Image Credits
Sydney Barrett – FourLanePhoto