We were lucky to catch up with Bartley Chavez recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Bartley, thanks for joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

When I was fresh out of college, I was working at a large fitness center. I had just earned my degree in communications and was trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. Facebook had just rolled out business pages and my dad suggested I start working for companies and helping them with their social media. At the time, I knew nobody with a social media career. It was all new. I quit my job and opened my own social media business. I started with one client and grew my company. Within the first few years, I was working full time and had a handful of women working part time for me.

Bartley, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My background is in social media management. I’ve always worked with small to medium sized businesses so I could have that close connection to my clients.

Once I started having kids, I began working part time on social media for clients. I recently pivoted and have created a social media presence for families in North County, San Diego. My goal is to help people embrace our wonderful town. I do this by sharing events, playgrounds and education.

What sets me apart is that I’ve worked in the social media sphere for over 10 years. I want to be real and authentic. I don’t buy followers, I connect.

I’m most proud of the times that people have reached out to me and said that I helped give them ideas of things to do with their family. Or that they get outside more because of ideas I’ve shared.

How did you build your audience on social media?

I’ve built social media audiences for many companies. Some large and some small. Authenticity is key. To build relationships are vital. Use hashtags that pertain to what you are about. Connect with others in the sphere you are in by liking and commenting. Remember, it takes time. I’m currently building my mommy + me page. I’m very proud that each day I’ve seen new followers because of my persistence and drive to spread knowledge about things for families to do in town.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My mission is to connect North County families through local events, education and playgrounds.

I’ve only got so much time that my kids are young. They are filled with awe and wonder. I love to see them light up when they go to a playground where they haven’t been. Or splash in the ocean and search for sand crabs. I want others to experience that with their kids too.

If I can point even one family in the direction of experiences, over things, then I’m happy. Makes me feel like I’m doing the right thing.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @bytheseamommyandme