GoBeRewarded social media coordinator JP Huckins featured in SD Voyager

June 16, 2022

Huckins honored for passion and skill in artistry and graphic design

A man wearing glasses and a black shirt is holding a picture frame.

Courtesy SDVoyager


Today we’d like to introduce you to JP Huckins. 


Hi JP, 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?


I grew up in a little town south of Tahoe and North of Sacramento, called Auburn. I fell in love with design at the young age of 11 and spent a lot of my time in Photoshop and Windows Movie Maker. After making a decent amount of mistakes in my late teens and early twenties, I finally started to learn some lessons and took the opportunity to apply for higher education. In October of 2016, I left my small hometown and moved to Escondido to attend film school. The school was small and I didn’t really fit in. I spent a lot of my time in class just making memes and random art on my computer, and I was slowly losing interest in the film industry. Right before graduation, like literally a quarter before graduation, I switched my major to non-emphasis. The film just wasn’t the direction I wanted to go. One of my friends mentioned I should start charging for my photoshop skills about a week before graduation. December 2019 and I’m officially graduated and living off-campus with some fellow graduates. I’m working at a local restaurant to pay the bills and marketing my graphic design skills in my free time. I would get a client maybe once a month for a logo, or an intro graphic for a YouTube channel. Small fry stuff, but I was loving it. Enter 2020 lockdown. My lease ended in the middle of the summer and no one was taking new lease applicants on a freelance graphic design salary. I was broken and didn’t have a place to live. After a couple stressful weeks of searching for any living situation in my budget, I finally accepted I’d have to leave the beautiful SD area and head back up North to my family. My brother offered me a little camp trailer on his property for $250 a month and I couldn’t pass. So August of 2020, I packed everything I owned into my Nissan Versa and made the move to Sacramento. I was depressed about having to leave my literal dream location and all the friends and artists I had met only to end up back where I was 4 years prior: jobless, in debt, borderline homeless. Upon arriving, I took a step back and looked at my options: Option A. Get a day job at a restaurant and make a minimum wage living until I save enough to move back down to SD. Option B. Take the opportunity of super cheap cost of living (rent was only $250) to really try and get my freelance graphic design business off the ground. Against all voices of reason and logic, I chose Option B. I knew if this was going to work, I would have to really be marketing myself like never before. I needed a routine. I woke up every morning at 6 am, ate breakfast, and headed to the gym. After the gym, I’d meet my mother at morning mass, and then spend the rest of the day at a local coffee shop. (Shoutout to Missions Coffee in Auburn). I would start with scouring Indeed and LinkedIn for any and all graphic design jobs, and apply to everything even remotely close to what my skill set was. Then, after I submitted at least 5 applications, I would open Photoshop and Illustrator and just start creating. My goal for the first month of 2021 was to get out an art piece a day. If someone asked to see my portfolio, I wanted to have a bunch of art to send them. After I finished whatever art piece I started, I would then go to YouTube and look up tutorials on how to get better at photoshop, graphic design, different color theory techniques, motion graphic techniques, and even started learning 3D modeling with Blender. After a few weeks of doing this, I started getting commission requests and work for hire jobs. Maybe one or two per month. $100 here, $500 there, it was rough, but I had a roof over my head, a mini-fridge full of lunch meat for sandwiches, and a positive attitude. I wasn’t wealthy, but that wasn’t the point, I was successfully living off of my art. I started to get better at the art that I was creating. The consistency in creating made me better at the software I was using, the willingness to learn was giving me new techniques to use in the commissions I was hired for. There’s something to be said for seeking the harder choice and really struggling with it. Really not taking no for an answer. It wasn’t glamorous to come home to a camp trailer at the end of the day. I was literally showering at the gym because my trailer didn’t have hot water. But I was so happy that I wasn’t waking up to go be an employee for someone else’s business. I was my own boss! 

Jump forward to June 2021. Almost a whole year after moving from SD. I had saved enough money for a trip back down to visit my friends who were still living down there. While down there I mentioned to a friend, that I was still totally open to moving back down, I just needed to find a job in the Graphic Design industry. Yeah, I was making money with the freelance gig, but remember, I was paying a fraction of real-world rent cost. A couple weeks later and my friend calls me back, “there’s a position opening at the marketing agency I’m working at, send in your resume!” I hopped on that so fast. Flew back down for the interview and got the job. I really believe I wouldn’t have gotten that job if I didn’t have the portfolio and understanding from the lessons I learned while being freelance. If I had just worked a day job instead of really pushing my career, I don’t think I would have been looked at twice. I think the year of being my own boss, being my own accountability partner, and not taking the easy road was really invaluable. It showed me that whatever I want, I can have if I’m willing to put in the work and lose a little sleep. Now I’m living back down in SD, working at a company that literally just won the Best Place to Work award from the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce. And when I get off work, I sit down at my computer and start working on the commissions I have for my Graphic Design business, which has been growing steadily with at least 2 clients per month for the past 5 months. I’m not where I want to be, but I’m a damn sight closer than where I was a year ago. I can chalk that up to a lot of work, the best support group, and a loving family behind me. 


Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?


Ah, I love this question. It’s all a matter of perspective, right? Like, yeah, I had difficulties, but they were never something that couldn’t be solved, or they were an opportunity to learn. In the moment, obstacles can be super frustrating; a client not paying on time, a client wanting unlimited revisions on a work, or having to choose between food and gas cause I’m waiting for the Venmo to transfer to my bank account. These are all trivial things that in the moment look like mountains. I even looked at having to move to Sacramento as a huge obstacle, but really it was that move that gave me the opportunity to focus on my future. I guess what I’m trying to say is that every obstacle is the opportunity to look at your situation from a different perspective. But that’s the difference between being motivated and being driven; motivation comes and goes. If you only create when you feel like it, you’re less likely to be able to create when asked to. And that’s my whole business model! When a client asks me for some creative work, I need to be able to not only deliver great work but deliver it on time. So, if I had free time, and I didn’t want to practice drawing, or I didn’t want to hop in photoshop and mock something up, those were the times I forced myself to do it anyway. Being creative on demand isn’t a talent, it’s not something that people are born with, it’s a skill that’s developed through self-denial and determination. 

Leave the phone out of the bathroom, and bring a sketchbook and a pencil every time you take a shit, all of the sudden after a week, you have that many more minutes of drawing done. 


It’s 9 pm and you just finished your dinner, you usually go to sleep at 10 or 11 pm, that can be two hours of Netflix, or Instagram, or TikTok; instead, go watch tutorials on YouTube, learn something today that you can put into practice tomorrow. It’s like second nature for me to just open YouTube while I’m eating a meal and just pull up Photoshop or Aftereffects tutorials. Maybe only 10% of the tutorial sticks with me, but that’s more than none! (I’m an ENFP so I think I have adequately avoided answering this question in the most amount of words possible). 


As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?


My main services range from Album art for musicians to animated overlays for twitch streamers to logo design for new companies. I specialize in photo collage/photo manipulation with some motion graphics knowledge. I think what sets me apart from others is my desire to learn, and I don’t mean in the classroom sense. I am constantly trying to outdo myself, teach myself new techniques and styles, learn new mediums, etc. This of course is transferred directly to the end product I deliver to my clients. And as I learn new things, I’m constantly reaching out to my past clients letting them know that “I learned this new software or this new animation style and I would love to apply it to your business!” Also, I’m like 93% extroverted, so I really like people. I don’t think I have worked with a client that hasn’t turned into more of a friendship than a business transaction. I’m just in love with the creation process and solving people’s problems with my art is super satisfying and literally makes me happy. 


Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?


Seek discomfort. The dichotomy between comfort and discomfort is honestly the wildest riddle I’ve ever come across. As humans, we’re constantly seeking peace and joy throughout the turmoil of life. But I found in seeking discomfort, in actively choosing the less comfortable thing, I was preparing myself to deal with difficult situations in positive way. By choosing to be uncomfortable in your daily life, whether you pick up a brutal workout routine, or just cut out coffee for one day a week, or no screen time after dinner on Wednesdays, whatever you choose, when you run into difficult situations down the road, you are more comfortable and can handle them with a grace that you normally wouldn’t be able to had you constantly sought the comfortable path. It’s sucky at first, but even the smallest of self-denials will train you to be able to handle bigger and bigger obstacles down the road. 


The obstacles in life will always be there, what are we doing to prepare ourselves for when we run into them? 


Pricing:


  • Logo Design: $1000+
  • Album Art: $1000+
  • Motion Graphics: $500+
  • Emote/Icon design: $30-70
  • Sticker/Merch design: $100-$300


Contact Info:





A cell phone and a tablet with ads on the screens

Maximizing ROI: Choosing the Right Digital Advertising Channels in San Diego

June 9, 2025
For San Diego’s small and mid-sized businesses, digital advertising offers incredible opportunities to reach new customers and grow revenue. However, not all platforms are created equal, and when budgets are tight, selecting the right channel is crucial for maximizing return on investment (ROI). Whether you're a local contractor, restaurant owner, or service provider, your digital ad strategy should focus on what drives the most visibility, leads, and conversions in your area. In this blog, we’ll explore popular digital advertising options and explain why Google Ads often delivers the strongest results for San Diego businesses. 1. Google Ads: The Top Performer for ROI Google Ads (formerly AdWords) allows your business to appear at the top of search engine results for keywords your customers are actively searching. For example, a San Diego resident searching “emergency plumber near me” or “best tacos in North Park” is showing high intent; they’re ready to take action. Why It Works: High Intent Traffic: Google Ads targets users who are already searching for your service. Geographic Targeting: You can zero in on neighborhoods, zip codes, or custom map boundaries within San Diego County. Budget Control: Set daily or monthly budgets and pay only when someone clicks your ad. Performance Tracking: Detailed analytics help you optimize campaigns based on clicks, calls, and conversions. Best For: Local service providers, contractors, restaurants, medical offices, and businesses with a clear search-driven customer base. Pro Tip: Pairing your Google Ads with a high-quality landing page and Google Business Profile increases both clicks and conversions. 2. Facebook and Instagram Ads: Great for Brand Awareness Meta Ads (Facebook and Instagram) are ideal for building awareness and retargeting warm audiences. These platforms allow for demographic, interest, and behavioral targeting, which makes them powerful tools for visually engaging products and lifestyle-focused brands. Why It Works: Highly Visual: Great for showcasing products, services, or events. Audience Targeting: Narrow down your audience by age, interests, or local San Diego communities. Retargeting Capabilities: Re-engage visitors who have already interacted with your business online. Best For: Local boutiques, wellness providers, event-based businesses, and restaurants trying to build buzz and increase repeat traffic. Limitations: These platforms are less effective for driving high-intent leads. Most users are not actively looking for services when scrolling; they’re browsing socially. 3. Yelp Ads: Niche but Effective for Some Industries Yelp Ads are especially effective for service-based businesses where customer reviews matter, such as salons, dentists, and home service providers. Why It Works: Built-In Reviews: Yelp showcases your business along with customer testimonials. Local Search Visibility: Your ad can appear at the top of relevant search results on Yelp. Best For: Restaurants, salons, auto repair shops, and other businesses that benefit from comparison shopping and customer feedback. Limitations: Yelp ads can be costly, depending on your category and level of competition. Additionally, some users have grown wary of Yelp’s pay-to-play nature and ad placements. 4. Don’t Overlook Google Business Profile Optimization If you're not ready for paid advertising or want to supplement your ad spend, optimizing your Google Business Profile (GBP) is one of the best ways to increase local visibility at no cost. Why It Works: Appears in Google Maps and Local Search Results Enables Customers to Call, Visit, or Review Your Business Supports Photos, Offers, and Posts to Promote Engagement Best For: Every San Diego business. It’s essential to optimize your profile regardless of your ad strategy. Tips for Optimization: Keep your business information accurate and complete. Add high-quality photos. Collect and respond to customer reviews. Use local keywords in your business description. When used in conjunction with Google Ads, an optimized profile enhances your credibility and conversion rate. Which Channel Is Best for San Diego Businesses? While Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp all have their place, Google Ads offers the best combination of local targeting, high-intent visibility, and measurable return on investment (ROI) . Especially for service-based businesses or those in competitive local niches, showing up at the top of search results can be the difference between a lead and a lost opportunity. Pairing Google Ads with a robust Google Business Profile establishes a digital foundation that operates 24/7, driving traffic, generating calls, and fostering credibility. Final Thoughts If you’re trying to grow your San Diego business, focus your digital ad budget where it matters most. Start with Google Ads for high-intent leads, complement with social media or Yelp if relevant to your industry, and never underestimate the power of a fully optimized Google Business Profile. Smart targeting, consistent monitoring, and a strategy built on intent are the keys to maximizing your digital advertising return on investment (ROI). Need help building or refining your digital ad strategy? Reach out today to see how we can help your San Diego business grow online.

Why Content Marketing Is a Game-Changer for San Diego's Small Businesses

May 12, 2025
In a competitive market like San Diego, small businesses need more than just ads and sales pitches to stand out. They need to earn trust, build relationships, and offer genuine value. That’s where content marketing comes in. From blogs to videos to social media posts, content marketing is one of the most powerful tools local businesses can use to grow their brand, connect with their audience, and drive real results. Here’s why content marketing is a game-changer for San Diego’s small businesses, and how to use it effectively. 1. Content Builds Brand Awareness (Without the Hard Sell) Unlike traditional advertising, content marketing doesn’t interrupt or push; it attracts. When you publish helpful blog posts, create educational videos, or share behind-the-scenes content on social media, you're putting your brand in front of your audience in a way that adds value. Example: A San Diego landscaping company could publish blog posts like “Best Drought-Tolerant Plants for Coastal Yards” or create a YouTube series on seasonal lawn care tips. These pieces don’t just inform; they introduce the brand as a knowledgeable and trustworthy resource. The Result: The more value you provide, the more people remember your business. When they’re ready to buy, you’re top of mind. 2. Content Builds Trust and Credibility In a saturated local market, customers don’t just choose based on price; they choose based on trust. Content allows you to demonstrate your expertise and show your human side. Blogs show you understand your industry. Videos let customers see your team in action. Testimonials and case studies build social proof. Example: A San Diego wellness clinic might share a blog post titled “What to Expect During Your First Acupuncture Appointment,” easing fears and showing professionalism before a customer even walks through the door. The Result: When people feel informed and confident about your services, they’re more likely to convert and stay loyal. 3. Content Improves SEO and Increases Website Traffic If you want your business to show up in local search results, content is key. Regularly publishing optimized blog posts gives Google more pages to index and helps you target keywords your audience is searching for. Example: A boutique in North Park might publish blog posts like “Top 5 Local Gift Ideas in San Diego” or “Sustainable Fashion Trends for SoCal Summers.” These keywords help attract local shoppers searching for those topics online. The Result: More visibility in search engines means more organic traffic and more qualified leads. 4. Content Fuels Social Media and Email Marketing Social media and email marketing are only as strong as the content they promote. Blogs, videos, infographics, and even customer spotlights give you something engaging to share. Example: A local café could film a short video showcasing a seasonal drink, write a quick blog about their local suppliers, and then share that content across Instagram, Facebook, and their email newsletter. The Result: With the right content, every platform works together to drive engagement and build brand loyalty. 5. Content Has Long-Term ROI Unlike ads that disappear once your budget runs out, quality content continues to work for your business over time. A blog post written today could bring in traffic and leads for months or even years. Example: A San Diego home inspector writes a comprehensive guide to “Preparing Your Home for Sale in Southern California.” Even a year later, that post can still show up in search results and drive potential clients to their site. The Result: The return on content marketing increases over time, delivering long-term value for your investment. How to Get Started with Content Marketing Here are a few simple steps San Diego small businesses can take to begin: Start a Blog : Use your website to answer common customer questions and showcase your expertise. Invest in Video : Short, authentic videos work well on social media and help personalize your brand. Leverage Local Topics: Tie your content to San Diego-specific events, neighborhoods, and seasonal trends to increase relevance and engagement. Be Consistent: Whether you post weekly or monthly, consistency builds trust and momentum. Track Your Results: Use Google Analytics or social media insights to see what’s working and refine your strategy. Final Thoughts Content marketing is more than a buzzword; it’s a practical, powerful strategy that helps San Diego’s small businesses grow their audience, build trust, and compete with larger brands. By creating and sharing helpful content, you don’t just sell, you connect. Whether you're a local service provider, a boutique shop, or a family-run restaurant, content marketing can be the key to sustainable, long-term growth. Start small, stay consistent, and let your content speak for your brand.
A group of people are covering their faces in front of a laptop computer.

5 Common Digital Marketing Mistakes San Diego Businesses Should Avoid (and How to Fix Them)

February 17, 2025
Digital marketing is essential for San Diego businesses looking to attract local customers, increase brand awareness, and drive sales. However, many companies fall into common pitfalls that can waste time, money, and effort. Whether running Google Ads, managing social media, or optimizing your website for search engines, avoiding these mistakes will help you maximize your marketing success. Here are five common digital marketing mistakes San Diego businesses make—and how to fix them.