We had the good fortune of connecting with Helena Jose and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Helena, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I reached a point where I wanted freedom, not only in the sense of creativity, I wanted the freedom to organize my time/days. To be able to travel, enjoy birthdays, special occasions, and be present for my family. That’s the real wealth for me.
When I started 2oz Miami Bar Magazine I knew I wanted to use all my expertise and connections into creating a business I felt passionate about, To bring to Locals and tourists the ultimate Miami’s Mixology guide. To bring to new Brands a platform they could use to introduce themself into the local market, to create unique experiences and events through the year, and share relevant information about the Miami Bar Scene.
In the beginning, I had a whole project in mind that involved 5 products to develop. As soon I started the first ones, Covid Happened, and I had to rethink my strategies, put on hold some products and just wait for the better. The way it has developed, very organically, has led to a different path, that was not planed, but its’ still, under my control of freedom, I’ve been able to keep testing my creativity and use my days at my convenience to keep developing and polishing our next products. As soon as better days come, we’ll be ready for the Launch of our printed Magazine.
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 am a creator,
As a creator, I’m always excited by having new ideas, and see them done. I’ve created franchise concepts, curated unique experiences, organized amazing events, and more. Challenges will be there for everybody and they are part of the life lessons to learn, to help you grow. I found people eager to help me, people, who believe in my concept and offer assistance. Start a new business it’s always financially challenging, but I manage to find creative ways to go around it. Having a Baby while starting your own business is not easy at all, but that only motivates me to succeed.
Everybody will tell you the key is to be constant, and yes you have to, but for me, the key has been networking, making connections, building relationships, and keep meeting people.
During COVID-19 confinement, I used my platform to show people all the resources available for them, to show them support and empathy. I highlighted those Bartenders who lost their jobs and thrived in their other passions. These relationships allowed me to build my tribe and get their support until today.
At 2ozMag we continually share relevant information for those looking for education, opportunities, and even jobs. We are creating a space dedicated to the Beverage industry and its community
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Miami is full of things to do, and it’s constantly changing, closing, and opening new restaurants. I would definitely recommend this list to do
* Going to Crandon Park north beach
* Paddle board on Coral gables canals
* Visit Vizcaya Museum
* Have Brunch at Little Hen
* Have Drinks at Champagne Bar, Four Season Surfside
* Eat at Boaters grill in Key Biscayne and bike around the area
* Bossa Nova nights at Joia Beach
* Drinks at Faena’s Living Room
* Go to Van Gogh Art Experience
* Go to Frost museum Planetarium
* Do a Helicopter ride with Keen Fly
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to Shoutout to a couple of people who were my first supporters. I’d like to thank Montserrat Franco, Brand Ambassador of Volcan Tequila who was the first person to motivate me, support me, and she’s been continually doing so.
I’d like to shout to Sori Mosquera who worked with me since the beginning, creating amazing videos and content for my Social media. She’s also one of the first people to bet on my idea and success
I’d like to shout out to Norbet Cruz, an amazing Bartender who is also a talented photographer that contributed with excellent shots for the Magazine.
Last but not least, our head writer Kyandreia Jones, an author who decided to try something new, and gave me not only her expertise but the day-to-day motivation, support, strengths, and more to keep up.
Website: https://2ozmag.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/2ozmag/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/2OZMAG
Image Credits
Adrea Stevens Ysabel Rossi