TIMES TALK WITH HEIDI SELLECK
Let me introduce you to Jacque Martin, an industry veteran of 26 years and the Founding Partner of Breakaway Promo and the incoming President for SAAC 2026.
1. How long have you been in the industry for? What are your favorite things about our business and what keeps you involved?
I started in the industry April Fool’s Day 1999. So, a long time. I love this industry because every day is different. I don’t know what my day will bring until I open my emails and see the fun projects I get to work on. What keeps me involved – hands down are the relationships that I have built with my clients, our amazing supplier partners, and the true lifelong friends that I have made.
2. When did you join SAAC? How has SAAC helped you as a regional to strengthen your relationships with suppliers and distributors?
The company that I originally joined, Adcentive Group, was a member of SAAC. As someone that was totally new to the industry, I attended everything that I could. Through those events, classes and the SAAC Expo I was a sponge and learned so much from experts in our industry. SAAC connects people, and the beauty of our industry is people are willing to help and share ideas. Even competitors – so rare in a sales industry. I still learn from SAAC members today.
3. As SAAC’s incoming president for 2026 what are you hoping to accomplish? And improve upon? What do you wish to be remembered for?
I have had the privilege of seeing many presidents of SAAC do a lot of great things. Especially the last two years working under Amy Williams and Barbie Deloa. I am committed to sharing the incredible benefits along with value that a SAAC membership offers distributors & suppliers.
The world and our industry are changing and we need to change with it to stay relevant. We experienced record turnout this year from our local in-person events, and we intend to add many more educational & fun events for Southern California in the new year. My mission is to get people connected locally, to grow our volunteer base & add more board members to help keep SAAC thriving for years to come!
4. What did you think of the SAAC Expo & Disney California Adventure experience? And are you excited to go back to the beach next year?
It was nice that everyone was let into the park earlier to experience Disney’s California Adventure first hand.
When it came to our evening event, the dinner, drinks, & dessert was amazing! The level of engagement relationship building was remarkable and at such a fun venue too!
Barbie and I went table to table to thank everyone and I loved hearing the great conversations being had and hearing the laughter throughout the dinner. We were excited to announce at the event that we are headed back to the beach! Long Beach has so much to offer us with it being a more central location. It has always been my favorite place for the expo. Additionally, our party behind the Hyatt has more options for enjoying the rest of the evening. It’s sure to bring that nostalgic feeling back to the beach for our SAAC members!
5. Wasn’t the annual SAAC Holiday party and installation ceremony great?
It really was an amazing evening! We had record turn out from SAAC members. I was pleased to have the SAAC holiday party and installation dinner at the Moose Lodge in Oceanside in December. Although not a fancy place, the lodge has a high perceived value and is known for being fun, comfortable and a safe family environment. It succeeds in supporting North San Diego County charitable philanthropy needs as well.
During the party we recognized past presidents, performed the passing of the gavel ceremony and installed the new 2026 board. This special program reinforced SAAC’s tradition of relationship building that we are famously known for!
Happy New Year promo family!
Heidi