Today we’d like to introduce you to Zitlaly Judith Alfaro.
Hi Zitlaly Judith, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I always dreamt of owning a store. As a kid, I was into fashion, so I thought one day I would have my own boutique. I came to the US in 2013 to live with family, and ever since, Barrio Logan has been my neighborhood. One of my favorite things to do in my free time has always been checking out little shops, markets, and the art studios here. As I saw the neighborhood grow and change, I decided that when I opened my boutique, it would be here on Logan Avenue. In 2023, I was going to start working on my business degree full-time and realized I needed a job with a flexible schedule, and that’s when I decided it was the right time to start my dream project. I invested all my savings in wholesale boutique clothes and shoes, and started selling at swap meets and pop-up markets. In the meantime, I was searching for a storefront, and by April 2024, I opened this store for the first time during Chicano Park Day. Since I wanted to pursue fashion and sewing as a hobby, I enrolled in an apparel construction course at Mesa College, and that’s how I learned how much work truly goes behind making a garment. I started thinking of ways I could make my shop more ethical and divert it from fast fashion. I started reaching out to local artists, and little by little, it turned into the artist and small business collective that it is today.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has absolutely not been a smooth or easy journey; I think it rarely is for any business. This shop has been a lot of trial and error, and every day I need to learn something new. I have had really good months, but there’s also been many others when I barely break even. When there is uncertainty in the economy, it is always small businesses that seem to be affected first. However, I have been incredibly blessed with a supportive family that always knows what to say when I’m worried and overwhelmed, as well as the amazing community of artists and business owners in Logan that continue to support each other in so many ways.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Xiti Boutique & Collective?
Although this business started as a way for me to continue school, it has turned into so much more. It is now a shop that brings together local artists, small brands, and Latino-owned businesses. The goal is to curate a space full of unique and handcrafted items that you won’t find at big retail stores. The items here aren’t just products; every piece has a story and real people behind it. My favorite part is getting to tell customers about the story behind each piece.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was shy and quiet for the most part, especially when I came to the U.S. and spoke very little English. I preferred to keep to myself. I have always had an interest in fashion, music, and art. I’ve always been very crafty. When I was a kid, I loved making sculptures out of air-dry clay, and I would spend a lot of time learning how to customize my clothing and how to make jewelry and other crafts through online video tutorials. I’m trying to reconnect with the creative and artistic side of myself, so I am hoping to have some pieces made by me at the shop in the next few months.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://xitisd.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xiti_sd/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/xiti/61552550279775/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
David Romero
