Today we’d like to introduce you to Rosa Mendez.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Books by the Bay started with two sister-in-laws, Jessica and me (Rosa), who already shared a love for reading and all things creative. We’d spend hours talking about books and crafts, and one day decided to take a leap and turn that shared passion into something bigger.
In August 2024, we launched as a little pop-up bookstore around the Greater Houston area, setting up in East End, The Heights, League City, Alvin, Pasadena, and eventually La Porte. Every stop had its own charm, but La Porte just felt different. The people were so friendly and genuinely excited to have us, and since I’ve lived here for over ten years, I knew it was something our town had been missing.
Around the same time, we started a community book club that met in different small businesses around La Porte each month. It was simple, good books, local eats, great company; it quickly became something special. Those gatherings helped us realize how much our community wanted a space like this.
That’s how Books by the Bay found its home in La Porte. What started as two sisters-in-law sharing stories has grown into a place that brings readers together, and we couldn’t be more grateful for how it’s all unfolded.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
For the most part, it’s been a smooth road, but definitely not without its bumps! We knew going in that the Houston area already has some incredible, well-established bookstores, so getting the word out that we joined he scene is really important (and a little intimidating).
Opening day was a big test, that’s when I, Rosa, came down with the flu. So Jessica had to open the store with the help of our family and friends while I was home sick. It wasn’t the picture-perfect start we imagined, but it’s one we laugh about now.
Before that, one of our biggest challenges was finding the right space. We were determined to be in La Porte’s historic Main Street, which has been growing so quickly, but retail spaces there are hard to come by. I’ll admit, I felt like a bit of a stalker walking by the same buildings week after week, checking for signs and probably pestering the owners (including our now-lovely landlord) until they finally gave us a chance!
Now, we’re already outgrowing our little storefront which is both exciting and a bit nerve-wracking. But through every twist and turn, God’s been faithful. Doors have opened right when we’ve needed them to, and the friendships we’ve made with authors, publishers, and our community remind us daily that we’re exactly where we’re meant to be.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Books by the Bay?
Books by the Bay is a children’s and adult fiction bookstore tucked right in the heart of La Porte’s historic downtown. What really sets us apart, besides where we are, is the space itself. We wanted it to feel perfectly moody and cozy for reading, yet inviting enough that people want to come, stay awhile, and snap that Instagram-worthy photo.
We’re all about creating experiences, not just selling books. From craft nights where we partner with local makers like candle pourers, floral artists, and painting instructors, to events with our wine sommelier who pairs wines with books, there’s always something fun happening here. We’ve hosted author launch parties and even a live podcast recording with Gabriel Michael, the voice of Xaden Riorson from one of the most popular fantasy series of the past few years.
We also partner monthly with local businesses for children’s reading events. A local beekeeper once read books and brought her hive, and we’ve had the fire and police departments come to read and give tours of their trucks. For Dr. Seuss’ birthday, local teachers rotated in to read to kids at different times, creating magical experiences for families in our community.
But beyond the events and aesthetics, what we’re most proud of is the community that’s formed around us. With and without the help of publishers, we’ve built something beautiful by trusting God and staying true to who we are. We love discovering not just traditionally published authors but also incredible indie voices, and we take pride in hand-selling books we truly believe in.
Our book clubs and events have become spaces where friendships grow, readers connect, and everyone feels like they belong. At the end of the day, it’s not just about books, it’s about belonging.
What makes you happy?
What makes me happiest is seeing the community we’ve built through Books by the Bay. It’s the long-lasting friendships, the conversations about books, and the joy of families coming back again and again. It’s not about what I’m doing, but about what the books and authors are doing with their writing, giving people a chance to escape the craziness of reality, immerse themselves in beautiful worlds, and find purpose and feeling.
Knowing that our little bookstore is a place where people can connect, feel seen, and belong is incredibly fulfilling. I’m grateful for the ways God has guided our journey and for the opportunity to live a life full of purpose and promise. Every event, every book club, every shared story reminds me that following this dream was worth it. Being part of something that brings joy, connection, and growth to others is what truly makes me happy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://booksbythebaytx.square.site
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/booksbythebaytx/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565488880322
- Other: https://linktr.ee/booksbythebaytx
