Couple finds success during recession

Shelly Alvarez and her husband, Juan, had dreamed of working together for years, but never imagined that the opportunity would come at a time when businesses locally and across the country were feeling the sting of a faltering economy.

Individually and as a couple, the Alvarezes had felt the effects of the recession prior to the business's launch in 2008. Shelly, who had worked in mortgage and commercial real estate industries, decided to find another career path after both industries were hit hard. Juan had owned a home building and construction company since 2004 but closed its doors in 2008 and joined Shelly in the business in 2009.

The staggering economy was not enough to keep Shelly from her dream of becoming a business owner. So, she opened an insurance agency offering a suite of services and products such as life and health insurance and annuities for individuals, families and small businesses.

It is a leap of faith that seems to be paying off.

“I knew it was going to be a challenge, but I was willing to put in the work to make this business happen and we have been growing significantly since,” said Shelly.

Along with Shelly's tenacity, the couple credits their bilingual capabilities and backgrounds in helping the company succeed, especially among the Latino market.

Shelly, who was born in Freeport, moved to San Antonio at the age of 2 and grew up in San Antonio's South Side. Juan, a native of Guadalajara, Mexico, has lived in San Antonio since 1995.

Along with Juan's business ownership experience, Shelly, now 32, is involved in the local business community and served on the board of directors for the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce from 2009 to 2010. Together Shelly and Juan, who solely operate their company, feel they can relate to local entrepreneurs and individuals — especially Latinos.

“(Latino clients) like that comfort of knowing you're from here and that you're someone they can relate to,” Shelly said.

“Once you earn their trust you have to continue building that relationship because we've found that Hispanics will refer you to their friends and family as well,” added Juan, 33.

Another important contributor to the company's success, the couple says, is the emphasis placed on educating clients about insurance and options available to them. Helping clients improve their lives and taking control of their financial futures has been a big part in shaping how the couple does business.

“For us, there are bigger rewards than just commissions. We don't want to be the biggest company, we just want to be the best. And knowing that you helped somebody is very gratifying,” Shelly said. Now, three years later we are groing and loving every second of it. If you are interested in learning more please visit the link that is attached. Thank you!

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