Tessa was born in London, England, during World War II. In 1975 she moved to California and settled in Newbury Park with her husband and two children. During this time, she worked as a legal secretary. After meeting her new husband, Tessa found an opportunity to start her own business as a Certified Résumé Writer; the name of her business was “Make Every Word Count.” For 28 years Tessa helped job seekers define their brand, prepare targeted resumes and cover letters, and use online social networking profiles. She coached them in job search strategies using the latest tools and techniques to help them win and succeed in fully satisfying careers. Tessa enjoyed every aspect of her business.
At age fifty Tessa entered college to study Commercial Art. She went on to earn a degree from Ventura college in Liberal Arts and Sciences. During this time, she enjoyed learning a variety of art techniques such as watercolor and pen and ink drawings. You can view Tessa’s pen and ink art in the lower-level basement showcase.
When Tessa retired, she volunteered as a museum docent for the Museum of Ventura County. There she prepared and presented entertaining and informative gallery talks, and led tours for groups of adults and seniors. She assisted curators in setting up quarterly exhibits by painting walls and showcases, prepared labels, and helped with moving works of art and artifacts.
Tessa is now enjoying the peace and serenity available to her while sitting on her balcony, listening to the birds, and taking in the beautiful treetop and ocean views from her home here at the Townehouse.
