Conversations with the Inspiring Guadalupe Ochoa

My story began when I was attending, The Art Institute of Orange County (AI). I have always known I had an interest in fashion and attending AI reinforced that interest. I quickly became passionate about the fashion industry. I recall, I desired to be like Rachel Green (Jennifer Aniston’s Character) as she was a buyer in fashion. That has always been my dream as well. However, being a full-time mom and working a full-time job made my dream difficult to achieve. Therefore, I looked into other opportunities to full-fill my interests. I applied at Sephora while still attending school. I started as a seasonal cashwrap and worked my way up to a color consultant. This is where my confidence and enthusiasm bloomed. Thus, allowing me to showcase all my work. I used several social media platforms to blog about my life experiences, family, work and my passion for fashion. I am a mother of three kids, work a full-time job and trying to keep track of everything is a challenge. Thankfully, I have a great husband who is my number one supporter. I recently joined SoCal Blogger Babes: A community of bloggers that empower each other. The majority of these bloggers are based in all parts of Orange County. There is also aanLA and San Diego Chapter. SoCal Blogger Babes has opened doors to many opportunities that I am thankful for. My confidence continues to grow and I have learned so many skills. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for me.

It hasn’t been easy. As I said, I am a mother of three beautiful kids and it has been difficult because I have had to face the dilemma of choosing between work and kids. My children mean the world to me. I sometimes have to take a moment, to re-prioritize and conclude that I need to be there for my kids. Making those sacrifices is always hard. What I’m doing involves a lot of networking, contacting people, and attending events. I sometimes feel guilty about being involved in some of the events, while my family is at home without me. I definitely rely on my husband for help with taking care of our children and he has been very supportive in helping me execute my dreams.

I’m strictly a blogger as of now, trying to showcase my passions. I focus my IG page on fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. I have also started to include my kids on my IG stories, but not on my grid to protect them from too much exposure. I have my little photographer that is my daughter, she enjoys taking my outfit photos and we get to bond with each other. She loves it!

When I was younger, I felt people wouldn’t think that I had the confidence or that I fit the “pretty” mold. However, I have grown to realize everyone is unique and beautiful in their own way. It doesn’t matter what the color of your skin is or what you look like.

Now, when someone rejects my creativity or my ideas, I use that as motivation and fuel to continue working harder. I don’t take it personally or seek validation. I know that somewhere, I’m needed just the way I am.