Our Local Businesses, Powered by Our People

DEMCCO member Jennifer Holliday is a compassionate postpartum doula and founder of Rooted Postpartum, supporting families as they transition into life with a new baby. Her care is centered on rest, recovery, and connection, offering services like belly binding, nourishing meals, education, and resource referrals. With a focus on mother-centered support, Jennifer helps parents feel seen, supported, and empowered during the transformative postpartum journey. Learn more at rootedpostpartum.com.

DEMCCO member Biriz Karli-Alemdar is the creative force behind What Did Biriz Do? offering a vibrant mix of consulting, creative services, and community storytelling projects. With a background in education, nonprofit leadership, and arts activism, Biriz brings heart, humor, and deep insight to every collaboration. Her work uplifts voices, builds bridges, and inspires action—locally and beyond.

DEMCCO President Michele Cyr is a Licensed Psychotherapist and proud local business owner, specializing in Anxiety, Trauma, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. EMDR-trained and deeply compassionate, Michele offers virtual-only sessions to make care more accessible. She accepts most major health plan insurances, providing a safe, supportive space for clients to heal and grow. Her work is rooted in empowerment, emotional wellness, and meaningful connection—values that also guide her leadership within DEMCCO.

DEMCCO member Gideon Marcus is the founder of Journey Press, an independent publisher based in Vista that’s on a mission to change the face of science fiction and fantasy.

With international distribution and a growing reputation for excellence, Journey Press is committed to bringing bold, diverse voices to the forefront—publishing new, inclusive works and reintroducing classic stories that deserve to be rediscovered. From championing women and queer authors who’ve been erased from literary history to elevating emerging talent, Journey Press is creating space for the stories that reflect our world.

The Soul Seekers are a Grammy-nominated gospel group known for their rich harmonies, powerhouse vocals, and uplifting message. Blending traditional gospel with modern soul and R&B, their music bridges generations and brings people together through spirit and sound. As proud supporters of DEMCCO, The Soul Seekers continue to inspire with performances rooted in unity, hope, and healing.

Follow them at facebook.com/TheSoulSeekersMusic.

Based in Carlsbad, Art & Copy Group is a creative studio offering branding, design, marketing, and storytelling services for purpose-driven businesses. Led by award-winning strategist Lorena Padilla—a proud Carlsbad local and DEMCCO Fundraising Chair—the studio also features a whimsical shop of original books, apparel, and gifts designed to inspire connection and creativity. Proudly woman- and Latino-owned.

The Enablers are a high-energy R&B and soul band based in Vista, delivering smooth grooves and timeless hits that get audiences moving. With a deep love for music and community, The Enablers are also proud supporters of DEMCCO, often lending their talents to local events and causes that strengthen civic engagement. Their performances are always a celebration of connection, joy, and rhythm.

Lorena Padilla is DEMCCO’s Fundraising Chair and the author of Maya Papaya. A creative strategist and storyteller, Lorena brings heart and hustle to everything she does—from leading community-driven events to crafting narratives that inspire action. Maya Papaya is a vibrant and whimsical children’s book that celebrates imagination, courage, and the power of self-expression through the eyes of a bold little girl on a big adventure. Lorena’s passion for equity, creativity, and civic engagement shines through both her writing and her work with DEMCCO.

Stay tuned—another DEMCCO member-owned business is getting ready to join our growing community directory. More local, Democratic-aligned businesses coming your way!

Stay tuned—another DEMCCO member-owned business is getting ready to join our growing community directory. More local, Democratic-aligned businesses coming your way!

Stay tuned—another DEMCCO member-owned business is getting ready to join our growing community directory. More local, Democratic-aligned businesses coming your way!

Stay tuned—another DEMCCO member-owned business is getting ready to join our growing community directory. More local, Democratic-aligned businesses coming your way!

Stay tuned—another DEMCCO member-owned business is getting ready to join our growing community directory. More local, Democratic-aligned businesses coming your way!