Jessica Ayala is the owner of Revival Social Club and worked through the pandemic. From taking orders, to cooking orders, to doing the dishes. She wanted to make sure her staff was able to stay home and stay safe. She also supplied her staff with groceries weekly and daily meals. In such an unpredictable time, she made sure all of her employees were taken care of.
Who has been your biggest influence?
My husband, and business partner. He is the biggest dreamer. We spent the first part of our marriage dreaming of ideas. He was the dreamer and I am the one who reels them in and grounds them a bit. I love the way he thinks. There has never been any challenge that he hasn’t taken head on. We’ve worked our way from the ground up and he pushed me the whole way. I’m not sure I would have taken half the risks if he wasn’t the person he is.
What motivated you to be involved in your community?
I love the family aspect the community provides. I have always believed family aren’t just the people you are related to but the people you surround yourself with. Surround yourself with the people who share the same ideals. Our community has grown so much, so fast and watching the people who started that and getting to be a part of that is so rewarding. I want to create a community that my kids feel connected to. I want this to be home. Kids always look for a reason to leave (which is great), but many come back and realize there is no place like home. I want that to be the case. For them to see the world and wake up one day and want to come home because they’ve created and been part of such a wonderful community.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Speak up. I was painfully shy growing up. I can’t even remember when I transitioned out of that. I was so scared to speak my mind. I’ve learned if you don’t ask the questions, the answer is always no. If you wait for someone else to speak what’s on your mind you will regret it completely!
What’s your idea of self care?
Quiet time. Time at home with the kids. This year has been rewarding. We’ve worked hard to find a work life balance that has been missing. Cleaning my house. Cooking. These don’t sound like self care, but it’s something I haven’t always had time or made time to do myself and I love that.
Drinks! A great cup of coffee in the morning in my favorite coffee shop. A cup of tea before bed…. Or a really great glass of wine. All of these things speak to me!
Lastly, speed round!
Heels or Flats? Flats. I need to be on the move. I wish heels, but … no way!
Pancakes or Waffles? Pancakes. All the way!
Day or Night? Both! I’m an earlier riser and a late to bed person. (But I love a good nap)
Books or Movies? Books. There’s something to be said about creative writing and taking yourself to a new place in a book!
Rain or Sunshine? Sunshine! I love the added energy!