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

Pamela , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.

The inception of Solo Para Ti was out of necessity and a touch of rebellion. Picture this – it’s a warm, sunny day in 2019, and I find myself in my aunt’s kitchen. At that time, I was in my junior year of undergrad, juggling summer classes to fast-track my pre-med program. Concurrently, I was working part-time at a luxury skincare/makeup store in the bustling heart of NYC. The summer brought with it stress, and stress manifested on my sensitive skin in the form of persistent hives.

Armed with determination and a vision for a more holistic approach to skincare, I made my aunt’s kitchen into a makeshift skincare lab. I began formulating what would later become our bestselling body butter. Initially, my focus was purely personal – creating products for myself and my loved ones. Selling these creations was not part of the plan.

The pivotal moment occurred when I realized that I wasn’t alone in this struggle. Many people, including myself, were grappling with sensitive skin issues. Frustrated with the lack of natural solutions in the market, I decided to take matters into my own hands. Fast forward to 2020, my senior year of undergrad, marked by an unforeseen convergence of my academic pursuits and the grim reality of a global pandemic. As I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in health science, we had learned about viruses and pandemics all while the world was grappling with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the midst of my academic commitments, I was working full time as a medical assistant, gaining invaluable experience for my future in medical school. The daily routine involved suiting up in protective gear, facing COVID-infected patients, and navigating the challenges of an overburdened healthcare system. It was a period of intense stress and uncertainty, with no apparent light at the end of the tunnel.

Amidst this chaos, a new revelation unfolded. I began to notice a surge in skin issues – allergies, rashes, flare-ups – affecting many individuals. The idea of sharing my homemade body butters as a solution started to take root. I realized that I held a unique remedy for a common problem shared by many. It was this realization that sparked the transformation of Solo Para Ti from a personal passion project to a brand with a mission.

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?

I’m Pamela Ortiz, the proud owner and founder of Solo Para Ti, LLC, a skincare line that reflects my lifelong passion for beauty and self-expression. Growing up, my fascination with beauty and skincare was evident from a young age. While other kids were engrossed in cartoons, I found myself captivated by YouTube tutorials on makeup, skincare and hair. This early interest eventually paved the way for my journey into the beauty and skincare industry.

My artistic inclinations found an outlet when my mother enrolled me in art school during middle school. Learning to draw and paint not only honed my artistic skills but also became the foundation for my approach to makeup. I viewed my face as a canvas, and makeup became my chosen form of artwork. Learning about skincare and makeup made me less insecure and helped me learn how to love myself. This creative perspective, inspired by both formal education and online tutorials, set the stage for what would become Solo Para Ti.

In addition to my artistic pursuits, I was immersed in piano and dance school, where maintaining a polished appearance was essential. This constant need for well-done makeup became an opportunity for me to blend my love for art with the practicality of everyday beauty routines. As I navigated the worlds of art, music, and dance, my makeup skills evolved, and I discovered the transformative power of quality skincare.

Solo Para Ti is not just a skincare line, it’s a manifestation of my passion and journey to help others. Our products are crafted with meticulous care, drawing inspiration from the intersection of art and beauty. From nourishing body butters to revitalizing serums, each item is designed to love and nurture the unique canvas that is your skin.

What sets Solo Para Ti apart is our commitment to merging artistry with effective skincare solutions. We don’t just offer products; we provide a holistic experience where self-expression and self-care converge. Solo Para Ti is more than skincare; it’s a rebellion against conventional norms, a response to personal and collective needs, and a celebration of self-care in the face of adversity. Our journey began in a kitchen, fueled by a desire for natural solutions and a commitment to addressing the evolving skincare challenges of a changing world.

I take immense pride in the journey that led me to create Solo Para Ti and the positive impact it has on our customers. Knowing that our products contribute to the confidence and well-being of individuals is incredibly rewarding. I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that Solo Para Ti is more than skincare; it’s an embodiment of passion, creativity, and a celebration of oneself.

As you explore our products, I invite you to join us on this artistic and skincare journey. Experience the transformative power of Solo Para Ti, where every product is crafted with love, inspired by art, and dedicated to embracing your unique beauty.

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

The best source of new clients for Solo Para Ti has been the organic spirit that defines our brand. Rather than relying on conventional marketing channels, we’ve harnessed the power of authentic in-person connections and word-of-mouth. The best source of new clients for us has been the raw, unfiltered power of personal connections and rebellious networking. Our clients aren’t just customers; they’re part of a community that resonates with the approach we bring to skincare.

In-person events have been an electrifying platform for us. These events are not just about showcasing our products but about engaging with individuals on a personal level. Social media has also played a crucial role in amplifying our message. The Solo Para Ti community thrives on platforms that allow us to showcase our products in action, share the stories behind them, and engage with our audience on a personal level. Networking on these platforms isn’t about numbers; it’s about building relationships. We’re not just selling skincare; we’re inviting individuals to join a movement that prioritizes self-love, individuality, and the celebration of natural beauty.

In a world inundated with traditional beauty standards, our rebellion against the norm has struck a chord with those seeking something different, something authentic. Our clients often discover us through in person events such as networking events, women empowerment events, pop up markets, referrals, social media platforms, where they connect with our ethos and become part of the Solo Para Ti family.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Earlier this year, I faced a formidable health scare when my doctors unearthed an early diagnosis of cancer. The news was a sudden and unexpected twist, a challenge that could have easily halted not just my personal life but also my professional endeavors, including Solo Para Ti.

Amidst the whirlwind of emotions and uncertainty, I made the decision to undergo surgery. Two weeks later, instead of taking a well-deserved break for recovery, I found myself right back in the thick of things. I resumed my responsibilities—fulfilling orders for Solo Para Ti, attending to makeup clients, and actively participating in events. Simultaneously, I was deeply engrossed in an entrepreneurship training program, navigating the demanding schedule without revealing the personal battle I was fighting.

This period was a testament to the power of resilience. While grappling with my own health, I continued to pour my energy into Solo Para Ti, driven by a determination to not let adversity define me. The decision to return to work was not just about fulfilling professional obligations but was an act of defiance against the challenges life had thrown my way.

Maintaining a facade of normalcy while undergoing medical treatments was a deliberate choice. I chose to shield those around me from the weight of my struggles, allowing Solo Para Ti to remain a beacon of creativity and inspiration. It was a silent rebellion against the limitations that life tried to impose on me.

It’s a reminder that resilience isn’t just about enduring; it’s about embracing challenges head-on and finding the strength to continue pursuing one’s passion and purpose, even in the face of adversity. Solo Para Ti, born out of a rebellious spirit, continues to thrive, fueled by the resilience that defines both its founder and the brand itself.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.shopsoloparati.com
• Instagram: soloparatillc
• Facebook: Solo Para Ti LLC
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/98619593/admin/feed/posts/
• Other: TikTok: @soloparatillc

Image Credits
Sabrina Palko @happyaccidenthaus for all the branding photos Viviana Cardenas @roseandlilyphoto for headshot