Hidden Gems: Meet Sonia Burke of SPB Business Solutions, LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sonia Burke

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey as an entrepreneur has been one of resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to uplifting others. I began my career in 2000 by launching a catering company, which successfully operated for eight years. In 2004, I expanded my professional journey into the real estate when the market was booming. When the economy took a downturn in 2008, I pivoted into the corporate world.

For 12 years, I worked at Disney Studios in the in-theatre marketing department, where I managed campaigns promoting ‘coming soon’ films. During this time, my entrepreneurial spirit and passion for giving back inspired me to establish the Rising Roses Foundation in 2016. This nonprofit is dedicated to mentoring teens in foster care (ages 14–19), guiding them in personal and professional development. The foundation has been a central part of my life and mission for the past nine years and continues to thrive.

In 2020, the pandemic compelled me to take a much-needed break, which gave me time to reflect and refocus. Soon after, I joined the Culver City Chamber of Commerce as the Director of Partnerships, where I dedicated myself to serving and supporting the small business community.

In 2022, I launched my own consultancy agency, drawing from my years of experience to help others succeed. Adding to my consulting products and services, I earned a license as a financial specialist. This allows me to educate communities about financial tools, such as whole life insurance, helping families to generate wealth and to leave a legacy for their loved ones.

Every step of my journey has reinforced my belief in the power of adaptability and purpose. I’m proud to continue creating opportunities, not only for myself, but for others and making a meaningful impact wherever I can.

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?
No, it has not been and smooth road! Self-employment is anything but easy! It is a path that requires immense willpower, grit, and relentless grind. It is definitely not for the weak, but for those willing to embrace the challenges.

While being your own boss offers the allure of a flexible schedule, that freedom often comes at a cost. In the early years, there are usually no health benefits, and it’s common to spend at least five years before achieving even a semblance of financial stability. During this time, it’s not unusual to juggle ten different hats simultaneously before being able to delegate even a single responsibility. From accounting and business development to marketing, taxes, bookkeeping, scheduling, social media management, content creation, and more, you can expect to tackle it all.

I often have to remind myself that entrepreneurship is about having the resilience to keep going, learning from every setback, and remembering to stop and smell the roses as you continue to build a meaningful legacy.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
SPB Business Solutions is a consultancy agency dedicated to empowering budding entrepreneurs by guiding them through the business formation process. We ensure a solid legal foundation, establish their digital presence, and provide essential tools for success, such as comprehensive operating agreements. Additionally, we offer strategic development services to help small businesses scale and introduce new products or services to the market.
As an education-first, service-second company, we go beyond simply doing the work for our clients. We ensure they fully understand each process, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions throughout their business journey.

Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Entrepreneurship requires being true to yourself while staying open to growth. Continuous learning in your field is mandatory. Trustworthiness and transparency are vital for building strong business relationships, which lay the foundation for expanding your business. Caring for others and fostering connections will drive collaboration and growth. In the beginning, you should expect to work 10-hour days, 6-days a week. When you aren’t grinding, get your rest, for sleep deprivation can cause a shutdown. View your failures as lessons learned. Celebrate your wins and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.spbbusinesssolutions.com
• Instagram: spb_business_solutions
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniaburke
• Yelp: SPB Business Solutions