Today we’d like to introduce you to Desirie Mendiola.
Hi Desirie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started Blu The Collection in August 2019, Prior I had been working retail, customer service and hospitality jobs since I was 15. I always knew I wanted to work for myself but kept getting these 9-5 or part-time jobs because I thought that was what I was supposed to do. I was miserable at my previous job as a legal assistant for a well-known family law firm that was also known to be toxic. I had been to the doctors for my anxiety and bald spots due to the job but couldn’t quit because it was the only way I was paying my bills, I had been doing youtube for the past five years and also wanted to explore that full time so I figured if I opened my own online business, I could support myself while doing youtube. I have always been a creative person, I loved taking pictures and modeling. I was always passionate about fashion, makeup and helping others, which is why I started my youtube channel but didn’t know how I was going to tie it all together. My grandma passed away the end of 2018 and that completely changed my mindset and outlook, I knew I wasn’t happy and decided to do something about it. I did six months of research in 2019 then opened Blu the Collection in August. Just one month into me running my online boutique, I had prayed for god to give me a sign that I was on the right path and the next day, I was let go from my legal assistant job. They eliminated my position. That was all the confirmation I needed.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, running a business is hard. Being self-disciplined plays a huge part and I think that has been the hardest for me, but the reward is so worth it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I created Blu The Collection to inspire others. I want to elevate their confidence while adding to their closet without breaking their pockets. No matter their size, race, background or shape. I could never find a place where I can find cute clothes to go our in that every other store had or cute, quality essentials. In San Diego, we really don’t have any cute boutiques other than the larger companies. My plans going forward are to open a pick up location where girls & women can easily come pick up cute, quality, unique outfits & basics and can take pictures. I don’t come from a wealthy background or great neighborhood. I’ve had my share of ups & downs in relationships and I want to show other women that they don’t need to depend on anyone to get what they want. You can be independent, you can follow your dreams. I don’t care what your family, friends or significant others say because once you stop listening to all the negative comments and focus on what you want, it will all workout in divine timing.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I always thought having a mentor was a scam. When I was miserable working my desk job, I started listening to Les Brown. He would always mention his mentors and others he listened to, so I started listening to them. After starting my boutique, I looked for other women who were successful in the same field. Now I have two mentors, Jance Charte and Kemetria Lilly. They both help lead women and teach them all about the ecommerce business.
Contact Info:
- Email: desiriemendiola@gmail.com
- Website: www.bluthecollection.com
- Instagram: @bluthecollection
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bluthecollection
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/withlovedesirie
