We recently connected with Lorraine Mendoza and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Lorraine, thanks for joining us today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

In 2023, I found myself stuck in a job I didn’t enjoy. I worked at an agency where I felt like I was doing all the heavy lifting. My days were a constant cycle of either being overwhelmed with work or sitting idly with nothing to do. No matter the situation, I wasn’t happy.

I was always receiving praises from clients and coworkers and I realized that I had the skills to do this on my own. So, I decided to take a risk and make a change. In January 2024, I handed in my two weeks’ notice and made the leap into entrepreneurship. I invested in a social media course to sharpen my skills and transformed my room into a mini office. To support my new venture, I also started teaching dance again as a side hustle. Almost immediately, I felt a shift—suddenly, I was much happier.

By the spring, I landed my first practice client, which gave me the confidence that I could truly make this work. I booked a photoshoot, created my pricing packages, and built a portfolio. I spread the word through family, friends, social media, and my professional network. Before I knew it, I was holding business meetings and secured two more clients.

It hasn’t been easy—owning a business comes with its challenges—but everything now happens on my own terms. That peace of mind is invaluable. By the end of 2024, I had secured another client for 2025 and had amazing social media insights from my current clients. I’m excited to see what this year holds. Starting my own business has been a game-changer for my mental health, and I’m so grateful that I took the leap. This is only the beginning.

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.

Hi, I’m Lorraine Mendoza, and I partner with amazing people and businesses to elevate their social media presence. Creativity has always been my passion—from growing up in dance to exploring various art forms. I earned my degree in PR, Advertising, and Business Communication, and I’ve always been drawn to bringing ideas to life—whether it’s transforming a choreography concept onto the stage or taking a project from a spreadsheet to a successful event.

Marketing is my specialty, spanning from social media strategy and photography to videography, website development, and content creation. I thrive on helping others showcase their unique qualities because I believe everyone deserves to shine!

What sets me apart is my background—both personal and professional. As a Latina from Jersey City, New Jersey, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing a rich blend of cultures and perspectives. Nothing surprises me, and I’m adaptable, able to meet clients wherever they are. (Being a Gemini might help with that adaptability, too!) Through dance, I learned the value of aesthetics, discipline, and attention to detail, which I bring to everything I do.

I’m especially proud of taking the leap into entrepreneurship. Starting my own business was something I never imagined, but now, I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity to work on my own terms and help others succeed.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Your network is everything! Everywhere you go is a potential opportunity to connect with your next client. That’s why I always keep business cards on hand—you never know who might be right in front of you.

I also make sure to promote myself through social media and my side hustle. I’m never shy about putting myself out there because, in this game, if you don’t speak up, you miss out. Closed mouths don’t get fed!

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

Things don’t always go as planned—and that’s completely fine! When I was at the ad agency, I often felt like everything was on my shoulders, and that pressure fueled my need for perfection and extreme organization.

One time, I had to organize an event almost entirely on my own, and things were happening out of my control. I had to let go of my rigid schedule and realize that, at the end of the day, the clients were happy—and that was what truly mattered. I learned to unlearn perfectionism and embrace the chaos.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @lmendozaaa
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/lorraine.mendoza.98
• Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/lorrainemendoza
• Other: Tiktok: @lmendozaaa

Image Credits

Kris P Visuals, James Jin Images