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

Hi Xochitl, thanks for joining us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

The idea for Las Chingonas Market began during my time as a small business owner navigating the world of pop-up markets. While I was no stranger to these events, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something crucial was missing—a well-thought-out marketing plan and reliable guidance from the organizers.

Granted, I participated in some exceptionally organized markets, but a prevalent issue persisted across many—lack of transparent communication and a strategic marketing blueprint. That’s when the idea began to crystallize in my mind: what if I could establish a pop market that not only provided a physical space for businesses but also offered indispensable resources, marketing materials, and expert guidance?

The concept evolved further, focusing on showcasing women-owned businesses exclusively. My mission was twofold: not just creating a marketplace but also equipping entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge needed for success. I’m driven by a deep passion for supporting women-owned businesses and imparting the significance of effective self-marketing. Las Chingonas Market is more than a market; it’s a dynamic community dedicated to empowering and uplifting every woman entrepreneur who joins us.

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.

Las Chingonas Market started its journey on March 6, 2022, during Women’s Month, with a focus on empowering women-owned businesses. Since then, we’ve been hosting markets across San Diego, providing not just a space but essential resources like marketing tools and professional photography. Our community is a dynamic space where women entrepreneurs find support, connections, and thrive together.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Embracing social media is a non-negotiable for any business. My constant advice to fellow business owners is simple: take charge of promoting your own business because if you don’t, no one else will. The beauty of it all is that social media provides a free and powerful platform to get the word out—so use it! At Las Chingonas Market, we’ve used various techniques to build our following.

One effective strategy involves sharing sneak peeks of the vendors set to participate in upcoming markets. This not only creates awareness but also generates excitement in the lead-up to the event. We encourage vendors to repost and share these previews across all their social media platforms, maximizing our collective reach.

Additionally, I personally craft a unique flyer for each market, which is then distributed to all participating vendors. The idea is to ensure a unified and visually appealing promotional effort. Sharing this same flyer across various social media channels is a clever marketing technique that fosters familiarity among our audience,
ultimately enhancing the visibility of our markets. So, in essence, leverage social media—it’s a game-changer!

And finally, always remember the importance of staying authentic. Your audience was built on authenticity, and it’s the genuine connection that will keep them engaged and loyal.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

My reputation within the market has been shaped by a combination of key elements. Firstly, my emphasis on clear communication, organization, and a sincere concern for every vendor in our markets has been instrumental. I make it a point to stay closely connected with vendors leading up to events, consistently sharing details and offering support in areas like marketing and promotion.

The appreciation for a well-organized approach has contributed significantly to building trust among business owners. Additionally, my unwavering priority is to ensure a positive experience for both customers and vendors. Even when faced with challenging decisions for the market, I remain committed to doing what is right and best for the business owners involved.

In essence, I believe my reputation is grounded in consistently demonstrating the true motivations behind my work—to provide exceptional experiences for both vendors and customers. This unwavering commitment to excellence has become the cornerstone of my reputation within the market.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laschingonasmarket
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/laschingonasmaket

Image Credits
Bianca q. photography