Today we’d like to introduce you to Adriana Alvarez.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Pensoles started from my interest in shoes that Pinterest lovers and friends were already creating. I wanted to be part of the trend, but I wanted to put my own twist to it because the ones that I could get my hands on I felt were missing my personality to them. I wanted to create something that I could feel proud and confident to wear.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has been far from a smooth road. The most meaningful struggle I have had to face and overcome was believing in myself. So often, our minds pull us away from being able to grow as soon as we feel uncomfortable with something. The moment I had people inquiring on being able to purchase shoes from me, the negative thoughts came flooding in. I didn’t think I could actually have a product that people wanted. Why me? What if they didn’t like them? What if I can’t get them out on time? Any thought I could have to reason with myself to not move forward with Pensoles flooded my mind in order to keep me in my comfort zone. I overcame those thoughts by facing exactly what it was I was afraid of. What if I fail? and my fiance, friends and family would say… “what if you don’t?” That stuck with me. I had to believe in myself if all of these people did. I had to accept the fact that not everyone will like my product and that is ok. I need to focus on the hundreds of others who do.
TAKE THE CHANCE and do not be afraid of criticism. Focus your attention on your supporters and your believers. Have an open heart to change and suggestions when appropriate because we can always learn and grow from others. Most importantly, put yourself in situations that are out of your comfort zone. If it makes you feel uneasy, you always learn from the experience. I am so glad I finally decided to say “yes” to my first potential customer who wanted me to create them a pair of Pensoles. I was scared and uncomfortable with the thought of beginning a business, but it has been the best professional experience yet.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am currently a 4th grade ESL math teacher. I have been in the teaching profession for four years and have embellished my creativity through my experiences with the many talents of my colleagues and students each year. I have successfully created a product in a field that is targeted towards those individuals in education. A career field that is highly competitive because teachers are constantly facing the challenges of diversity, revision, and revolution in the classroom for academic and social reasons. I am proud of Pensoles because we have given pencil shoes a custom touch for each customer. Customers come to me with a vision and we bring it to life. I think it is pretty awesome that I can design a product with my customer and call it ours. My customers are proud of their work, their creativity and proud to wear something that essentially they help design. Each pair is hand drawn, hand painted and specifically designed to each individuals order.
Do you feel like there was something about the experiences you had growing up that played an outsized role in setting you up for success later in life?
My parents were born in Mexico and Venezuela. Growing up, I watched my parents do everything they could to make ends meet. I may not have had the best things in life growing up, but I always had everything I needed. I always knew that I would make my parents fights and struggles worth it. I knew they would watch me walk down the stage to receive my diploma and watch me flourish. My father and mother instilled in me pride to work and to always give it your all in whatever you have committed to.
Pricing:
- Kid custom shoes $35
- Adult custom shoes size $45
Contact Info:
- Website: www.etsy.com/shop/pensolesandfabulous
- Instagram: missadrimarie
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pensoles/
- Other: PensolesandFabulous (IG)
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
