We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Raysa Veras. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with raysa below.

Raysa, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

Rouge Hoops: A Business Born from Love

Hello, I’m Raysa Veras, and I’d like to share the story of Rouge Hoops, a business
born from love. Since I was a child, I have always loved accessories. Although my
professional background is in social work, I decided to take classes to learn how to
create the accessories I had always imagined and wanted to give to my friends.
Rouge Hoops emerged during a very special and emotional time in my life. In 2017,
my father was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. During those difficult times, I spent
many hours at the hospital in New York with him. Creating accessories became my
therapy during the long nights at the hospital. With the support of the medical staff, I
set up a small jewelry workshop in my father’s hospital room, and it was thanks to
them that the first designs of Rouge Hoops began to sell.
Today, Rouge Hoops operates from my home in the Bronx, New York. I make 80%
of my sales online and the remaining 20% through direct sales and community
events. But my business is more than just accessories. I am also dedicated to
supporting women with cancer in the Bronx through monthly classes on how to
create their own accessories. These sessions serve as art therapy, helping to
improve mobility and relaxation, while creating a supportive environment for them to
find comfort and strength.
As an immigrant woman from the Dominican Republic, I am committed to
empowering women, immigrants, and marginalized communities. Rouge Hoops is a
testament to the strength, resilience, and creativity of these individuals, and each of
my creations is dedicated to the women who work hard to build a better future for
themselves and their families.

Thank you for learning about my story and the purpose behind Rouge Hoops.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Products and Services:
Introducing Rouge Hoops , a unique venture nestled in the heart of the Bronx, New York, where craftsmanship meets culture.
Founded by a Dominican immigrant woman, our business takes pride in creating handmade accessories that beautifully blend tradition and contemporary flair.

Each accessory is meticulously crafted, reflecting the rich and vibrant heritage of the Dominican Republic.
Located in the diverse community of the Bronx, we aim to celebrate cultural diversity through our handmade creations. By choosing ROUGE HOOPS , you not only acquire a one-of-a-kind accessory but also support a passionate and talented immigrant entrepreneur.

BUSINESS VALUES

Artisan Craftsmanship: We embrace the art of meticulous handmade craftsmanship, ensuring each accessory reflects a unique blend of skill, passion, and cultural richness.

Life Transformation: We believe in the transformative power of stories and craftsmanship. Our accessories go beyond adornment; they carry narratives that inspire, uplift, and contribute to positive life changes.

Inclusivity:We are committed to promoting inclusivity in both our creations and community. Our diverse range of accessories celebrates various cultures, ensuring everyone feels seen, valued, and included.

Social Impact:Rouge Hoops is dedicated to supporting women with cancer in the Bronx through monthly classes on how to create your own accessories designed to improve mobility and relaxation. These sessions serve as a form of art therapy. We believe in the healing power of art and self-expression, fostering a supportive environment for these women to find comfort and strength.

Have you ever had to pivot?

During the pandemic, I had scheduled to participate in over 30 events, including fairs, weddings, expos, and fashion shows, but they were all canceled, along with other previously placed orders. Personally, I contracted COVID-19 in April 2020 and had to spend some time in bed. I still haven’t fully recovered and suffer from lingering effects, such as severe joint pain.

Regarding the supply of materials, due to the coronavirus, there were significant problems with shipping times and costs, as well as product shortages. All of this forced me to redesign my products with other materials available in the U.S. market. These products are much more expensive, which has increased my production costs. Additionally, for safety reasons, I changed the packaging quality to ensure customer safety with double packaging.

Thanks to the support from organizations like Centro Community Partner and WEDC, I was trained in digital marketing and financial management. I shifted my focus from direct sales to online sales, improved the Instagram page and website, and began working with new products.” I placed greater importance on observing customer behavior and responding to their needs, which led to the decision to create an online store and offer products that helped protect against COVID-19, such as party masks and customized masks.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a creative entrepreneur is the ability to make my clients happy through my handmade accessories. I take great pride in empowering them to express their unique styles and personalities. Being able to accompany them on this personal journey and value the diversity of their individual tastes is truly fulfilling. It’s not just about creating beautiful pieces; it’s about enhancing their self-expression and celebrating what makes each of them special.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rougehoops.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rougehoops/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rouge.hoops.5
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/104921836/admin/page-posts/published/

Image Credits

N/A