Summary
Highlights
Their financial goals include building a larger savings cushion and owning a house. As an immigrant, generational wealth is important to David, who learned the value of money from his parents after moving to the US with very little.
David started his own company to avoid agency fees and gain more credibility. Their business operates on a 50/25/25 system: 50% for personal income, 25% for taxes and personal investment, and 25% for business operating costs.
The majority of their income comes from Abrakadabra Events and Jacquelyn's barber services. Jacquelyn also participates in clowning and entertainment. Their busy season for entertainment is April to December, with January and February being tight due to post-holiday spending.
David feels content with his current income but aims for more. He and Jacquelyn don't plan to stay in Nashville long-term and hope to move overseas, possibly to Scotland. He envisions continuing to clown and perform, bringing happiness and whimsy for retirement.
David and Jacquelyn use a financial advisor and apps like Mint to manage their budget, monitoring expenses like eating out. They plan to start a 401(k) for their business once it grows further. They minimize eating out by cooking most meals at home.
Living comfortably in Nashville on their income is possible due to a strong local support system. They sometimes dip into savings but replenish it during better months. David splurges on theater, which is a significant part of his recharging time, attending shows up to three times a month.
David Torres-Fuentes, 23, and his wife Jacquelyn earn $43,000 annually in Nashville, Tennessee. They run Abrakadabra Events, an entertainment company offering balloon twisting, face painting, magic, science shows, foam, and bubble parties. David also works as a puppeteer and at a coffee shop.
Terrified of a clown at age four, David decided to become one, a decision supported by his parents. He grew to love the art form, understanding its purpose to bring joy to people, and decided to dedicate his life to it.
Initially, David's gigs were inconsistent and underpriced. He learned to value his time, preparation, and knowledge, leading him to raise his prices to reflect his worth, and clients have shown their willingness to pay.