We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Maria Carrasquilla a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria , thanks for joining us today. Are you happier as a business owner? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job?

I can honestly say that being a business owner makes me deeply fulfilled—but happiness doesn’t always come easily in this path. There are moments of doubt, exhaustion, and even fear that make me question whether life would be simpler with a “regular job.”
The last time I really thought about that was during a particularly tough period when sales were slower than expected, and I was struggling to find the right way to communicate my brand’s value. I remember sitting at my desk late one night, surrounded by fabric samples and notes from marketing meetings, feeling completely overwhelmed. I kept asking myself if I was doing enough, or if all the sacrifices—the long nights, the financial pressure, the emotional investment—were worth it.
In that moment, the idea of having a stable job, with clear hours and predictable pay, felt comforting. But as I sat there, I realized something important: even in my most challenging moments, I wouldn’t trade what I’ve built for that kind of stability. Running my own business has given me a sense of purpose and creativity that no traditional job ever could. It’s allowed me to connect with incredible people, tell stories through design, and see women around the world feeling beautiful and confident in something I created.
That reflection reminded me that happiness, for me, isn’t about ease or comfort—it’s about meaning. And while entrepreneurship tests me constantly, it also fulfills me in a way that keeps me grounded and grateful for the journey.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Victoria Leon is more than a brand—it’s a reflection of my story, my family, and the places that have shaped who I am.
I founded Victoria Leon together with my mother, Yamileth León. What began as a shared dream between us has grown into a celebration of elegance, confidence, and the beauty of our Venezuelan roots. Every piece we create carries a little bit of both of us—her strength and creativity, my curiosity and love for design.
The cultures and landscapes I encounter on my travels constantly inspire me—from the vibrant energy of Puerto Ordaz, where my mother was born, to the warm shores of Maracaibo, where my own journey began. Each collection is a love letter to a place that has left its mark on my heart. Through every stitch and print, I try to capture the spirit of the destinations that move me most.
While my roots are deeply Latin American, my vision extends beyond borders. I’m endlessly inspired by the diversity and beauty of the world, and I pour that sense of discovery into every design.
What truly defines Victoria Leon, though, is our commitment to quality and purpose. Each piece is crafted in Colombia, with meticulous attention to detail, using fabrics that honor both luxury and sustainability. My goal is to create swimwear that not only flatters but also empowers women to feel confident, comfortable, and free.
For me, Victoria Leon isn’t just about fashion—it’s about storytelling. Each collection invites you to embark on a journey filled with culture, craftsmanship, and a spirit of adventure. It’s a celebration of where we come from, where we’ve been, and the boundless horizons that still await.

Okay – so how did you figure out the manufacturing part? Did you have prior experience?

I studied fashion design, where I learned the process of creating all types of garments—from concept to construction. Early on, I was drawn to the challenge and precision of working with stretchy fabrics like nylon and lycra, so I focused on swimwear and activewear courses to master those techniques.
When it came time to bring my own designs to life, I wanted to make the most of my time and resources. I began researching the top swimwear manufacturers in Colombia, knowing the country’s strong reputation for craftsmanship and quality in this category.
Starting that partnership, however, wasn’t easy. We launched the collaboration during the pandemic, which meant everything had to be done remotely. We relied heavily on WhatsApp messages, video calls, and recommendations from relatives who had worked with the manufacturer before. There was a lot of trust involved at the beginning.
Despite the distance and uncertainty, every time we received the finished pieces, we were genuinely impressed with their work. Over time, that relationship grew stronger, and they’ve since become a key part of bringing the vision of Victoria Leon to life—transforming ideas into beautifully crafted swimwear that reflects our quality, passion, and dedication.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

I would definitely say that one of my favorite parts of growing the brand has been collaborating with content creators. Each collaboration feels like a creative exchange—I get to connect with inspiring women who truly understand our vision and translate it into their own unique style and storytelling. It’s not just about creating beautiful content; it’s about building genuine relationships with the creators and their communities. When they wear our pieces and share their experiences, it feels authentic, effortless, and aligned with what Victoria Leon represents—confidence, elegance, and freedom.
Another space that I’ve found incredibly meaningful is participating in local pop-ups. There’s something so special about being able to connect face-to-face with clients, seeing them touch the fabrics, try on the pieces, and fall in love with how they feel. Those in-person moments remind me why I started—because behind every swimsuit, there’s a woman seeking connection, inspiration, and a story she can make her own.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.victorialeonstore.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victorialeonstore/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victorialeonstore
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-v-carrasquilla-144a7a305/