Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Garcia.
Heather, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am a creative gal that wears many hats, though I’m known throughout Houston for having my fashion and lifestyle blog- LAFashionsnob.com, having a great sense of style, and recently, my vintage shop- Vintage Cartel AZ. I started my blog in November 2008, while I was attending my first local handmade market in LA- Felt Club. I enjoyed talking with the vendors and hearing their stories, and that got me thinking, ‘I’d love to share their stories with the world.’
So I did just that! I then branched out to attending fashion events, where I met and interviewed designers and other folks in the industry. I also write about local businesses/brands, non-chain hotels and restaurants, do product reviews, and have a page that focuses on my style. My vintage shop started out as Lone Star Vintage a few years ago, but I re-branded to Vintage Cartel AZ (as I’ll be going home to Arizona by the end of this year). I mainly focus on selling at local markets, such as Pop Shop America, Houston Vintage, and Vida Antigua Vintage Collective. I do eventually want to have my own brick n’ mortar, but that’ll come in time.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I wish it had been a smooth road, but like most things in life (it seems), my journey has had its’ share of ups and downs. The fashion industry is far from easy and is quite often, far from being kind. I’ve met my share of unpleasant people. There were events that never started on time. People often treat you as if only who you know, or how many followers you have, only mattered. I take my job seriously when it comes to photographing and writing post-coverage of a fashion show/event, and often felt that I wasn’t taken seriously because I was only a ‘blogger’ or not as “famous” as some bloggers out there. I’ve learned that you’ve got to fight for what you want, which isn’t always easy.
As far as the vintage shop aspect, it’s finding the right market to be in. I always have to ask myself, will it be worth it? Will I make enough to make up booth costs, and still make a profit? I’m still a start-up and still growing, so I don’t yet have advantages as the established shops have. It’s also hard building an organic following on social media, but I’m working on it. So, needless to say, it’s been a curvy journey!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Heather Garcia – what should we know?
I have two brands under my name, my blog and vintage shop. I am the sole content creator behind the fashion and lifestyle blog- LAfashionsnob.com. I write about local and national fashion events, runway shows, product reviews, my style, local businesses, and non-chain hotels and restaurants. I’m very blessed to have met some great designers and industry people along with way, as well as being able to attend New York Fashion Week and WWD Magic. One thing that sets me apart is that you can always find me in the press pit in some vintage dress or outfit, and heels.
My vintage shop is Vintage Cartel AZ. I specialize in a curated selection of one-of-a-kind women’s clothing, jewelry, accessories, and home decor. I can be found on Facebook and Instagram, as well as select local markets and pop-ups. My selection ranges from everyday wear to designer vintage.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I’d love to give a shout-out to Sandra Mendoza and Norma Jean Hughes. Sandra owns Debutante Clothing-a vintage shop in Pomona, CA; while Norma owns Deja Vu Fashions in Upland, CA. It was through them that I really got to know (and LOVE) vintage clothing. Them, along with Bloomers & Frock’s owner Rebekka Adams, and Arbor Antiques Services owner- Curtis Ann Davis, who really inspired me to get into being in the business of vintage.
I’ve also had various friends throughout the year’s help be supporters and cheerleaders in my journey, which has really meant a lot to my success in both the blogging and vintage world.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lafashionsnob/ ; https://www.instagram.com/vintagecartelaz/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LAFashionsnob/ ; https://www.facebook.com/vintagecartelaz/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/LAfashionsnob
Image Credit:
Shalanda Turner, Nicole Kestenbaum, Quy Tran
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.
