Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Mariel Reyes. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Mariel, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

What my parents did right was make a strong woman. Strong women aren’t born. They’re made. I have watched both of my parents work for the life they have. My mom doesn’t have a degree but does very well for herself in the hospice world. Marketing yourself takes confidence and sacrifice, and she showed me that. Her strength is astonishing.

On the other hand, I have watched my father get both his bachelor’s and master’s. I’m in school now, without children, so I can never seem to understand how he managed to do that with my siblings and me, but he did. My parents are strong, hard-working individuals who taught me that nothing in life is free and that the life you want is out there. You just have to work for it.

The other day my boyfriend told me that I am a force of nature, which was probably one of the sweetest things he could have ever told me because I am. I don’t settle, quit, stand up for myself, and am constantly working toward the life I dream of. I surround myself with the right people who appreciate and value me. If there are blocks in my way, I move them. No matter how high the tide is, I figure it out, and I have my parents and family to thank for that. Because of them, I’m a strong woman.

Mariel, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I got into this industry initially because I wanted a picnic for myself! I still haven’t taken myself on one yet, but it’s my goal this year! I started this business with picnics alone and then added on event styling and balloon installations. I think the best problem I solve for my clients are being able to enjoy a set with luxurious vibes without setting/cleaning up themselves, giving them the option to have me take care of their food or let them bring their own, and capturing their special moments.

I fully support my picnic sisters out there! I call them my sisters because we are family in some way. Each of us is unique and special in our own way. My stagnant vision for Pop a Picnic sets me apart from others. I want to keep it as sweet, gentle, and minimal as possible. Luxurious but simple.

The proudest piece of my little gig is watching it grow. Growing this business did not happen overnight, and I’m thankful for that. I’ve never been big on getting to places fast because I feel like I wouldn’t stay there very long if I did. I do this because I love creating, working, and sharing my talents for all to enjoy. I’m the happiest on event day

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

Customer service. Before I was labeled as a “picnic-preneuer” I worked as a waitress for four years, where I learned how to interact with strangers and give them a great social experience. I always wondered why some of the clients that reuse me chose the small business I have instead of one of the top businesses in my line of work. When I thanked one of my clients, he just told me that he loved my cheerfulness, my attitude, and my dedication towards my business. “Everything you create is beautiful.”

So work smart, be professional, and be kind. Be someone that’s worth remembering.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

Marketing, hashtags, and constantly creating new conduct. You have to stay trendy in this business. It’s one of my least favorite parts but it’s been tremendously helpful. I just had a picnic for a military-dependent client in Washington. He was visiting his girlfriend, who is currently stationed in San Antonio, TX, and wanted to surprise her with a picnic date. He told me he was on TikTok looking for things to do and found me! It felt so good hearing that!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.popapicnic.com
• Instagram: @popapicnicsatx
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/popapicnicsatx