Passion Projects
I’ve always believed that creativity, purpose, and connection are powerful forces—especially when they intersect. Outside of my professional roles, I’m deeply passionate about projects that blend sustainability, design, wellness, and community. From growing microgreens and caring for horses, to upcycling luxury textiles and collaborating with artists, each project reflects a part of who I am: a curious creator, a conscious maker, and a storyteller at heart.
Business Consulting for Entrepreneurs & Startups
Have an idea but don’t know where to start? I do—and I live for this kind of work.
I help entrepreneurs build a solid foundation for their business from the ground up. No matter the industry, I break it down step by step—researching, implementing, and delivering actionable strategies tailored to your goals. Whether you're launching a new product, service, or brand, I provide clarity and structure with a hands-on, solutions-first approach.
From state agency applications, accounting setup, and website development to training programs, brand identity, concept design, and troubleshooting—I’m that person. I have that brain. I connect the dots, fill in the gaps, and help turn dreams into viable, scalable businesses.
Family Guidance: Homeschooling & Elder Care Support
Helping families navigate life’s complexities is something I’ll always share—because I’ve lived it.
Through my own experiences homeschooling my daughter and caring for elderly family members, I’ve come to understand just how overwhelming it can be to manage the details, paperwork, and emotional weight of it all. From deciphering state forms for benefits and coordinating long-term care, to understanding dual enrollment programs and supporting academic success at home—it’s a process that takes patience, knowledge, and heart.
I’ve walked this path, and I openly share what I’ve learned to help lighten the load for others. Whether you're a parent exploring homeschool options or a caregiver trying to make sense of available resources, I’m here to help break it down, walk you through it, and remind you that you're not alone.
Community Advocacy: Health, Healing & Outreach After the Aliso Canyon Disaster
In 2016, my community was forever changed by the Aliso Canyon natural gas leak—one of the worst environmental disasters in U.S. history. My own family suffered devastating consequences, including the heartbreaking loss of a loved one and multiple hospitalizations—myself included—due to toxic air exposure.
This tragedy became a turning point in my life. Driven by a need for answers and justice, I began extensive research into the long-term neurological effects of airborne toxins, particularly the link between toxic exposure and Osmotic Demyelination Syndrome. Through this work, I was invited to present my findings to a panel of 35 world-renowned neurologists—bringing visibility to the very real health crisis our community was facing.
More than anything, this experience taught me the power of community, advocacy, and resilience. I remain committed to supporting families through education, outreach, and compassionate guidance, especially when they’re navigating trauma, environmental illness, or loss.
Coco Coir for Horse Stall Bedding
What began as a passion for growing microgreens quickly turned into a full-scale exploration of coco coir's versatility. While researching sustainable growing mediums, I discovered coco coir—not just for plants, but also as an innovative bedding material for animals.
As a lifelong horse enthusiast and owner of four horses, I was intrigued by the idea of using coco coir in our stalls. After extensive research on its benefits—including superior absorbency, odor control, dust reduction, and eco-friendliness—I imported a full container of coco coir from Sri Lanka.
Today, it's our go-to bedding. Our horses love it, and I love how it supports their comfort while reducing our environmental impact. This project has sparked ongoing conversations in the equestrian and agricultural communities about sustainable, animal-friendly alternatives.
Growing Microgreens for Wellness & Community
Clean eating and community wellness are at the heart of everything I do. Growing microgreens began as a personal health journey—an exploration of nutrient-dense, fresh food that could be grown in small spaces and shared with ease.
Over time, it became a deeper passion. I now cultivate a variety of microgreens and share them with my local community, emphasizing the powerful health benefits of these tiny greens—from boosting immunity to improving digestion.
For me, this isn’t just about food—it’s about creating access to better choices, building connections, and nurturing a healthier future together.
Sustainable Design with Luxury Scrap Fabrics & Artist Collaborations
Merging high fashion, sustainability, and art is one of my greatest joys. I collect designer scrap fabrics from alterations—luxury houses like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and others—and give them new life through thoughtful, eco-conscious design.
My creations include upcycled denim jackets embellished with patchwork, premium leather, and Western fringe, as well as handcrafted saddle pads made from sustainable clippings. Each piece is a one-of-a-kind expression rooted in creativity, craftsmanship, and intention.
With permission, I also collaborate with working artists by incorporating their photography and visual artwork into my designs. I print these images on leather and integrate them into wearable pieces—turning each jacket into a walking canvas and celebration of community artistry. These collaborations mean so much to me and reflect my belief that sustainability is not just about materials—it's about relationships, respect, and storytelling.
Jean Jackets, and Jewelry designed and produce by Sonjia Romero
Set Design & Styling for Photographers and Artists
Bringing visions to life through styling and set design is one of my deepest creative passions. I love collaborating with photographers, visual artists, and creatives to design scenes that elevate their work and allow their talent to shine.
Whether it’s curating textures, sourcing unique props, or designing a full environment from the ground up, I approach each set with a storyteller’s eye and a stylist’s sensibility. My goal is always the same: to create visual harmony and emotional impact that enhances the artist’s message and captures something timeless.
Photographer: Amy Barnard Photography, Model: Reanna Barin, Makeup: Beauty by Mel, Jewelry: Michael Barin, Creative Set/Director: Sonjia Romero