Today we’d like to introduce you to Sylvia Reyes.
Hi Sylvia, 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?
As a Latina entrepreneur and single mother, much of my journey has been built through perseverance, sacrifice, and learning how to balance family, business, and community responsibilities all at once. Motherhood taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of creating stability not only for my family, but also for the people and communities I serve. Those experiences shaped my work ethic and continue to influence the way I approach both business and leadership today.
My story has always been rooted in hard work, community, and creating meaningful connections. I was born and raised with strong Monterey County roots, and my professional journey began in the agriculture industry in the Salinas Valley before later expanding into work in California’s Imperial Valley as a farm labor contractor. Those experiences taught me the value of perseverance, leadership, and understanding the everyday challenges faced by working families and small business owners.
Over the years, my career evolved into real estate, business brokerage, entrepreneurship, and community leadership. I’ve had the opportunity to serve in several community-focused roles, including educational outreach and nonprofit board service, while building relationships throughout the Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz region and surrounding communities.
Today, I wear several hats as the owner of California Coffee in Aptos, in Santa Cruz County, a licensed California real estate professional and business broker with Coast Business Brokerage, (CaDRE# 01750151) and a community advocate who genuinely believes local businesses are the heart of our towns. California Coffee became more than just a coffee shop to me — it became a welcoming gathering place where people can connect, enjoy live music, participate in workshops, support local artists and small businesses, and feel part of the community.
One of the things I’m most proud of is creating spaces and opportunities that bring people together. Whether it’s helping someone purchase their dream business, hosting educational events, supporting local musicians and nonprofits, or simply remembering a customer’s favorite coffee order, I believe success comes from building authentic relationships and serving others with integrity.
Like many small business owners, the journey hasn’t always been easy. There have been challenges, risks, and moments that required resilience and faith. But those experiences have strengthened my appreciation for community support, hard work, and staying connected to your purpose.
At the end of the day, I’m grateful to continue serving the Monterey Bay community I love while helping create spaces where people feel inspired, supported, and connected.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. As a Latina entrepreneur and single mother, I’ve had to balance raising a family while building businesses and navigating the many challenges that come with small business ownership. There were financial pressures, long hours, personal sacrifices, and moments of uncertainty that tested my resilience.
I’ve also learned that as a woman in business, especially in competitive industries, you often have to work harder to prove yourself. But those challenges helped shape my confidence, work ethic, and determination.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of community. The support from local customers, friends, and families reminded me why small businesses matter so much. Looking back, I’m grateful for both the struggles and successes because they’ve all played a role in shaping who I am today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
DRE# 01750151
California Coffee was created with the vision of being more than just a coffee shop — it’s a welcoming community gathering place in Aptos where people can connect, relax, and feel at home. We’re known for our tropical-style patio, live local music, community events, educational workshops, and our commitment to supporting local artists, musicians, students, and small businesses. We’ve worked hard to create an environment that feels warm, inclusive, and community-centered for people of all ages.
One of the things that sets California Coffee apart is the atmosphere and sense of connection our customers experience when they walk through the door. We genuinely value relationships and strive to create a space where people can enjoy quality coffee, fresh food, conversation, and community. Whether it’s hosting live music, tutoring programs for students, nonprofit fundraisers, book clubs, or simply remembering a customer’s favorite drink, we believe small details matter.
In addition to California Coffee, I also work as a licensed California real estate professional and business broker with Coast Business Brokerage, where I help entrepreneurs buy and sell businesses throughout the Monterey Bay Peninsula and surrounding communities. I specialize in working with small business owners and understand firsthand the challenges and rewards that come with entrepreneurship. My approach is relationship-driven, and I strive to provide honest guidance, local knowledge, and personalized support throughout the process.
What I’m most proud of brand-wise is creating businesses that are rooted in authenticity, community, and service. At the heart of both California Coffee and Coast Business Brokerage is a passion for helping people, supporting local businesses, and building meaningful connections within our community.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
What I love most about our community is the strong sense of connection and support for local businesses, artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs. The Monterey Bay Peninsula and surrounding communities have such a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, creativity, and small-town charm. People genuinely care about one another here, and there’s something special about seeing neighbors come together to support local events, businesses, and community causes. I also appreciate the diversity of backgrounds and stories that make this area feel vibrant and welcoming.
What concerns me most is seeing how difficult it has become for many working families and small business owners to keep up with the rising cost of living and operating expenses. Many local businesses are working incredibly hard just to stay afloat while still trying to give back to their communities. I would love to see continued efforts to preserve the character of our local communities while creating more opportunities for small businesses and future generations to thrive here.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cacoffeeaptos.com
- Instagram: california_coffee_
- Facebook: calicoffee21
- Other: Tik Tok @californiacoffeeaptos
