Today we’d like to introduce you to Kisbel Borrero.
Hi kisbel, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Alays Hatbar started because of something really special: the support of a friend. I used to work with her and help with everything behind the scenes, but honestly, at first I didn’t even make the hats myself. I always let her do the designing because I truly didn’t think I had the creativity or talent for it.
Over time, she kept encouraging me and believing in me more than I believed in myself. When she decided to move to Europe, she did something I’ll never forget she left me part of her inventory so I could start my own company. She genuinely felt like I could succeed in this, and that says so much about the kind of woman she is.
That’s really how Alays Hatbar was born. Little by little, I started creating my own designs, finding my style, and falling completely in love with the process. What started with insecurity slowly turned into a huge passion.
To me, Alays Hatbar is also a reminder of how powerful it is when women support each other. Sometimes all it takes is one person believing in you before you even believe in yourself, and it can completely change your life.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been easy. Before, I had two jobs: Alays Hatbar and also a part-time job, so trying to balance events, motherhood, and work was honestly really hard sometimes. There were weeks where I was working every single day.
Also, this whole world was completely new to me. I had to learn about finances, events, inventory, and even how to connect with different clients depending on their personality and style. And honestly, one of the biggest things I had to learn was believing more in myself and my creativity.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I design hats based on each client’s personality and style. To me, a Hatbar is more than just decorating a hat, it’s creating something personal where you really put a part of your creativity and essence into it.
I think every Hatbar is different because every designer has their own style. And honestly, one of the things I’m most proud of is simply taking the chance to start, even without knowing much in the beginning, and learning along the way.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
What has worked best for me is simply being present being involved in the community, going to events, and wearing my own product. Almost every time I go somewhere wearing one of my hats, people ask about it or compliment it, and that naturally starts conversations and connections.
I also think it’s important to know where the networking events are in your city and just put yourself out there. A lot of opportunities really come from connecting with people in a genuine way.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Alayshatbar
