Luz Dary Nino Ortiz shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Luz Dary , it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I’m most proud of the network I’ve been building with women business owners across San Diego and Tijuana. This community of support, collaboration, and shared growth has been one of the most meaningful parts of my journey.
Shoutout to Bobbyjo Rodríguez from Starry Lane Bakery in San Diego — a top allergen-free bakery where you can now enjoy their delicious goods and pick up our coffee bags directly.
A shoutout as well to Jennifer Hernández and her family, who offer delicious empanadas alongside our coffee, and to Kattherina Gómez from Katy’s Esencia Colombiana. She makes incredible arepas rooted in tradition and flavor.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Luz, and I’m the founder of Lumière, a coffee brand inspired by my Colombian roots. Coffee has always been part of my life — my grandparents were coffee producers, and every cup reminds me of my family’s hard work and tradition.
Lumière was created after visiting a coffee farm in Boyacá with my husband, where I felt deeply inspired to share the passion and care behind Colombian coffee one bag at a time. Our mission is to uplift farmers in remote regions, support their communities, and honor their stories.
With the support of my family and local partnerships, Lumière has grown with heart. What makes us unique is our personal, human approach and the joy we bring to every cup. We’re also working on connecting with women business owners in Mexico to bring our coffee to them and continue expanding our community.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memory of feeling powerful goes back to childhood. I remember running so fast that no one could catch me — that feeling of freedom and strength stayed with me. It taught me early on that our power is something we carry inside.
As I grew older, sports continued to build that confidence. I played outdoor and indoor soccer, did shot put, track and field, and practiced Karate-Do. Each one taught me discipline, resilience, and the strength that comes from pushing yourself.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self: You are amazing. You can achieve everything you want — truly everything. And don’t forget to dance more. Enjoy life, trust yourself, and keep shining.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
A cultural value I protect at all costs is loving each member of my family equally and respecting everyone. It’s something I carry with me everywhere I go. Connection, kindness, and fairness always come first.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace during my early morning walks with my husband and our dog — those quiet moments help me breathe, connect, and start the day with intention. I also feel a deep peace when I kiss my dog Cali on the forehead for minutes at a time. There’s a feeling of joy and infinity in those moments, like everything is exactly where it should be.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lumierecc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lumierecafe.co/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luz-dary-niño-ortiz
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Lumi%C3%A8re-Caf%C3%A9-Colombiano/61552838932396/
- Other: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=348c174581f485e0&authuser=0&q=Lumiere%20Cafe%20Colombiano&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAONgU1I2qEg0TrFISk0zsjQ1T0sxTEuyMqgwNbNMMkozNE41MjcxsFzEKu5TmpuZWpSq4JyYBiTyc_JzkzIT8_IBktHnfUEAAAA&mat=Cebz5FiN4AgO&ved=2ahUKEwj-p5D12YmRAxXQmO4BHeQkCRkQrMcEegQIKRAC
Image Credits
All credits to Aaron Dominguez
