We had the good fortune of connecting with Camilla Barcan and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Camilla, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
This is such a perfect question because Camilla Limón has been built on the power of words! There are way too many affirmations that make my heart sing, but the phrase “You Are Resilient” from Rupi Kaur’s poem is my go-to of the moment. The poem speaks on the inner resilience and beauty of women. Reminding us that we can move mountains; we are brave, we are strong, we are resilient. Through all that life throws at us, the rejections, the loss, the bad days, especially now after the crazy year we’ve just had during the pandemic, I have these words on repeat. It’s what pushes me to continue to pivot as an entrepreneur, instilling in me that there is always light on the other side.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I don’t think there was a moment that I wasn’t going to pursue a creative career. From the second I could walk, I was already styling my own outfits. Growing up, my mom had a children’s clothing company which gave me opportunities to help with color swatches and make decisions for her collections. I actually unofficially started Camilla Limón in middle school, when I began selling my jewelry alongside her, at local events in Philly. I was completely fascinated by the patterns and colors you could put together with your hands, mesmerized by all mediums from beads to resin to clay to metalwork. I have been carefully honing my craft, which started as a hobby and has now empowered customers all over the world.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There are many wonderful small businesses to support and enjoy in South Florida. We are incredibly lucky to live close to the beach, so of course, I would make sure that we hit the best spots along the water and soak in the sun!! We would spend most days relaxing on the beach, hiring Sunshine State Picnic for a day to create a spread and an unforgettable moment in the sand. In the evenings, spending Happy Hour at my favorite spots like Salt7, El Camino, Rocco’s, the Wharf and hanging out until late, enjoying each other’s company and the beautiful weather. The trip would not be complete without spending time in South Beach and Wynwood to share the colorful, unmatched, vibrant essence of Miami. This is where we would eat brunch on the beach, meet exciting people from around the world and see local artist and graffitti. Lastly, I would make sure that we went to a few vendor’s markets, getting to know local artists in person and supporting their craft. This is probably the most important part of the trip, as these unique pieces are one of a kind, made with love.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I started my business when I was 8 years old, so there are so many people to shout out from throughout my entire journey. Starting with the teachers who turned mentors, to the friends and family members who have always cheered me on. But the single most important person who has been by my side from the very beginning is my mom. She was a huge motivator for me in the beginning stages and continues to be a guiding force as I grow my company. Since I started, in the same way that many parents push their kids to excel in sports, my mom has been there to support my passion by enrolling me in classes and giving me the tools I’ve needed to excel. She knew that by cultivating this dream of mine from the start, I would and could do anything I set my mind to. I have her to thank for my creative mind and spirit and for teaching me from an early age what it meant to be a strong Latina entrepreneur.
Website: http://camillalimon.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camillalimon.co
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camillalimon/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/camillalimonco
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CamillaLimon.co/
Other: https://linktr.ee/camillalimon.co
Image Credits
Camilla Barcan, Maribel Beas, Brittany Miller, Yeina Melendez, Shaye DiPasquale