We were lucky to catch up with Andrea Barrera recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Andrea thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
My most meaningful projects to date have been building the Luxury Latinx Network and creating the first-ever Latina Luxury Retreats for my community. What makes these projects meaningful to me is the purpose behind their existence. Years ago, when I started my first business, I was told that my brand didn’t belong in the luxury space. I clearly remember being advised to focus on retailers where “my demographic was more likely to shop.” However, I ignored these comments and continued working on my brand, focusing heavily on social media marketing and applying everything I learned from being a social media manager to other businesses and brands.
Within months, I was invited to be on Shark Tank, asked to participate in the Kardashian CBD Baby Shower, had sales in every state of the U.S., and defied the stereotype imposed on my culture by becoming the first Latina-owned luxury CBD skincare line to be carried at Saks 5th Ave. From my experiences, I knew that I had to create a space where members of my community would not only be motivated to take up space in the luxury sector but also have the opportunity to connect with a network of like-minded individuals and immerse themselves in one-of-a-kind luxury experiences.
For me, ‘luxury’ encompasses a mindset above all things. It transcends material possessions and empowers individuals to manifest the life they desire and indulge in experiences that make them happy.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Andrea, I have a diverse background that spans neurobiology, mental health, social media, and entrepreneurship. After realizing the importance of holistic options for managing anxiety and stress, I delved into the healing properties of cannabis and created a luxury CBD-infused skincare brand focused on healing, self-love, and self-care. Against all odds, my brand became the first Latina-owned business to be carried at Saks 5th Ave and other luxury retailers & spas, defying stereotypes and paving the way for other brands in the sector.
Today, I am proud to offer luxury transformative retreats for Latina women worldwide and have established the Luxury Latinx Network, a growing community where individuals can come together and thrive in the luxury sector. Through my retreats, events, coaching, and services as a social media brand strategist and manager, I empower others to embrace their dreams and achieve success on their own terms.
What sets my projects apart is my unwavering commitment to inclusivity and representation. I firmly believe that luxury should be accessible to all, regardless of background or ethnicity. My focus on creating transformative retreats and building the Luxury Latinx Network specifically stems from a deep desire to provide a space where we can feel seen, heard, and empowered.
Moreover, through my work as a social media brand strategist and manager, I aim to amplify the voices of Latinx entrepreneurs, creatives, and leaders, showcasing their talents and accomplishments to a wider audience. By highlighting their stories and successes, I am challenging the underrepresentation of Latinos in the luxury sector and reshaping the narrative. I am most proud of this and the achievements I have made despite the challenges and stereotypes I faced. The impact I have on my community and the opportunity to inspire others to tap into their own potential, by shattering limitations, manifesting their dreams, and creating a world where they embrace their true potential is truly what makes me happy.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
A lesson I had to unlearn was the belief that success and worthiness are defined solely by external validation and societal expectations. The backstory behind this lesson traces back to my early years in the mental health field and my personal journey of self-discovery.
In my pursuit of academic and professional achievements, I had internalized the idea that my worth was tied to accolades, degrees, and the approval of others. Being a first-generation Latina, the burden of always making my parents, family, and relatives happy weighed heavily on me. I constantly sought validation from external sources, striving to meet societal standards of success. However, this mindset left me feeling unfulfilled and disconnected from my true self.
It was during my transition away from my career and into the world of holistic wellness and entrepreneurship that I began to challenge these beliefs. I delved into self-reflection, exploring my passions, values, and inner desires. I realized that true success and fulfillment come from within, from aligning with my authentic purpose and embracing my unique journey.
I had to let go of societal expectations, release the fear of judgment, and redefine success on my own terms. This involved embracing self-compassion, practicing self-love, and prioritizing my own well-being and happiness.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
One aspect that non-creatives may struggle to understand about my journey of creating transformative retreats and building the Luxury Latinx Network is the deep emotional connection and passion I have for empowering others through creativity. These projects go beyond just business ventures; they are a reflection of my inner desire to create meaningful experiences and foster a sense of community. It can be challenging to explain the overwhelming drive to bring together like-minded individuals, provide them with luxury experiences, and facilitate personal growth and empowerment. Non-creatives may not fully grasp the importance of this emotional connection and the impact it has on personal and professional transformation. While it may seem contradictory to some, my background in social media management and strategizing has been key in bringing these projects to life. Whether it’s through transformative retreats, building the Luxury Latinx Network, coaching, or offering social media management services, my ultimate goal is to empower individuals to embrace their creativity, forge meaningful connections, and make their mark in the world. 
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.theluxurylatinx.com/
- Instagram: luxurylatinxnetwork
- Twitter: LuxuryLatinx
- Other: @its.endys.world
Image Credits
Photographer: Joel Pulido