Today we’d like to introduce you to Ruby Garcia
Hi Ruby, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Hi my name is Ruby. My story starts here in San Antonio, TX. I was born and raised on the south side of town. I am strong in my faith, a proud wife and a mother to 3 awesome children. In my late 20s, my family made a life-changing decision to move to Charleston, South Carolina to further my husband’s career. We spent 14 years creating a home away from home, but nothing could ever replace my love for San Antonio. When we returned In 2023, I came back with a much greater appreciation for my hometown than what I had when I left.
My story would not be complete without mentioning the path that led to where I am today. The earliest memory I have of God planting the seed for my business was in the third grade when my teacher asked what I wanted to do when I grew up. My response was, “To be the person who makes the Hallmark Cards.” Little did I know God would lead me on quite a journey to get here. My first experience in the professional world was working as a paralegal. I quickly learned this wasn’t for me. Aside from helping people, the role did not fulfill the creativity I was craving, so I picked up a side hustle restoring furniture. At the time, this gave me the creative outlet I was looking for. Before I knew it, my business took off and I quit my day job at the law office to pursue furniture restoration full-time. I did this for several years before an incredible opportunity presented itself in Louisiana. Never in my life did I think my legal background would present an opportunity to work for NASA, so naturally, I jumped at the opportunity and spent a year working there. This is where I learned the importance of being detail oriented, which flows easily into my artwork. That said, being in Louisiana long term was never part of the plan. The plan was always to get back to Texas to be close to family and start my dream business.
In 2023, that’s exactly where I found myself, back in Texas, planting my roots in beautiful Floresville, Texas. Finally able to truly follow my childhood dream of being the person who makes those Hallmark Cards; only mine are custom.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s no secret, financing your passion can be tough. When we moved back to Texas, I was starting my own business, settling in and prepping to send our daughter off to college. Thankfully, I was able to do it with all the support from my family, who was finally nearby.
Cue challenge number two. Have you ever heard the saying too much of a good thing can be bad? Being that I enjoy my work so much, I have struggled with time-management and finding work-life balance. When work is literally at your fingertips, it’s easy to get carried away. Once again, my family has been extremely helpful in helping me find balance and reminding me to step away when needed. Lastly, the technology side of setting up a business, when it comes to websites, online shops etc. I am thankful for my oldest Son who has been amazing in helping navigate those challenges.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Living out of state is what inspired “That Southern Draw,” when I was homesick, my parents would often ship me items from San Antonio, those were the moments that made me feel connected to home, and this is what I strive for with “That Southern Draw,” a business that finally fullfills my creative outlet and allows me to connect people with each other through the places we call home.
That Southern Draw is focused on hand-drawn illustrations of culture, local landmarks and my original humor. I like to bring attention to the city of San Antonio and surrounding towns. My favorite thing is to witness my art igniting curiosity, promoting local travel and hearing from customers how each unique illustration has reminded them of a first date, an engagement or a wedding.
I offer greeting cards, journals, short stories, wedding stationary, apparel and a faith-based collection of original creations. Not having a degree in art has not limited my creative style. I play by my own creative rules and find that sets me apart from others. This has truly become a family business, as they are the first to hear my ideas, see products, and share in the excitement of each moment along the way, for that I am very thankful.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
I am still fairly new and everyday is a lesson learned. I understand that as a business owner I am never done growing. One lesson I’ve learned is to not compare myself to others. It can be easy to have self-doubt in today’s world of social media and leaving job security for something you’re learning as you go doesn’t make it easier. With that said, It’s been a blessing to have amazing women in my life to cheer me on along the way, my mom, my daughter and sister in law’s to name a few.
I truly believe God has a plan and timeframe for each of us. Understanding patience is key and putting faith above all has allowed me to recognize God always shows up. I am frequently reminded of this and it encourages me to continue investing in myself and my business.
I’d like to say I’m just getting started, and so excited for the future!
Pricing:
- GREETING CARDS $5
- CUSTOM SHIRTS $35
- CALENDARS $28
- STICKERS $3.50
- WALL POSTERS $50
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thatsoutherndraw.com
- Instagram: @thatsoutherndrawpage
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/share/1AzxFD3Fuw/?mibextid=wwXlfr
