Today we’d like to introduce you to Esther Contreras
Hi Esther, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Hello, I am Esther Contreras, wife of a pastor, mother of three, and grandmother of two. A couple of months ago, I turned 50. I have been living in San Diego for a year and seven months. My husband, Pastor Francis Lee, and I recently emigrated, and our whole family is here in the United States. We are happy and grateful to God for the opportunity to serve Him.
It has not been easy, as I was away from these lands for over 11 years, and the language has been one of my challenges. Four months ago, I started an online store here for the first time, selling on social platforms. Although I’m still learning how they work, I enjoy teaching myself. My store, Maskstore Online, features a variety of products, and its name is derived from the initials of my three children. Balancing my roles as a wife, mother, pastor’s wife, and entrepreneur has been challenging, but I love everything I do.
I recently completed a Business Communication certification from San Diego Community College and am considering enrolling in a degree program soon.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Well, like everything in life, there are many difficult things along the way, but that’s not a reason to stop. It’s a reason to value what you’ve done, what you’re doing, and where you’re going. I enjoy the challenge of starting from scratch and knowing that, with God’s help, I will succeed soon. One of the most difficult challenges is speaking the language. I can understand it, but I know that, with time, I will master it. Persevering and moving forward are deeply ingrained in me. I can do this, and I will achieve it, with care and dedication.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
My business and mission are centered on three main goals:
1. Pastoral Counseling: As a pastoral counselor, I am passionate about helping people, especially women, who may be struggling in their homes or lives and are unsure how to move forward. I aim to inspire women to turn to God for strength, encouraging them to pursue their goals with faith and resilience.
2. Entrepreneurship: Entrepreneurship is a powerful way to create opportunity, especially if there is no steady income. I encourage people to start small, perhaps by selling items they no longer need in good condition or joining a company that offers affiliate benefits. In this country, there are countless opportunities and programs for those willing to work hard. I love connecting personally with people and showing them that, with dedication, they can build something meaningful.
I launched my online store, Maskstore Online, during the pandemic, which was a learning experience that I’m grateful for. In addition, I created a WordPress site to share messages of faith and guidance. I am also working on a devotional book that is nearly complete.
My entrepreneurial journey began early in life. At 14, after learning cosmetology at 13, I opened my own beauty salon. Over the years, I’ve learned the value of persistence, gratitude, and faith, as well as the lessons that come with both success and setbacks. Although we suffered a devastating flood this year and lost everything, it has not stopped us from beginning again.
Each day is a new chance to grow and embrace God’s blessings.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
God has been and continues to be good. My journey has been filled with blessings, as He has opened doors and brought the right people into my life to help me advance in my endeavors. Each day, I strive to move forward with determination and unwavering faith.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://esthercontreras.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makstores_online/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makstoresonline/
- Twitter: https://x.com/esthercys
- Youtube: esthercontreras
- Other: https://makstoresonline.com
Image Credits
By Alejandro and Keren Contreras
