Meet Mariela Gutierrez | Owner of Alfredo Gutierrez x Mariela a Latinx Apparel Brand

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mariela Gutierrez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mariela, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
My Father. The relationship I shared with him is too valuable to be put into words. He was always there for me. He was the person who pushed me to try everything in life and not to back away from anything that came as a challenge. His constant dedication towards my interests and hobbies motivated me to pursue the same with more enthusiasm. He instilled in me to try to leave a significant mark in this world. He taught me that we only have one go-round in this life and we should aspire to make a difference, no matter what field of interest I eventually pursued. My father did some amazing things in his life, he supported my career choices and changes, but always held me to the standard, what will you do for others that they will look back at you in appreciation of, just earning a living was never enough. Creating something out of nothing, the definition of a start-up, is the ultimate expression of my father’s life values.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a Senior Property Manager that manages 1.3 million sf of retail shopping centers. I have been doing this for 18 years, however in 2021, I added business owner to my list of accomplishments. Owning an apparel brand predominantly for men.

In the fashion business, men designing clothing for women is not unusual but rare. In an industry where the odds are stacked against us and we do not carry that name brand label, how successful can we be? Will men want to buy from a woman?

Starting a men’s brand inspired by my father, I hope that I can inject menswear with much-needed new ideas that represent our Legacy and our culture.

I learned that no matter what insecurity is building up in your head, keep pushing because at the end of the day you will be surprised that you are the reason you are not thieving. Let go of any preconceived notions and you will be surprised how well you can actually do.

I wish everyone knew this: that Latinos are a young, growing, uniquely entrepreneurial and highly productive part of the U.S. economy. I’m most proud of the fact that Latinos are starting small businesses at a faster rate than any other demographic group. At a time when America’s essential business dynamism is declining, Latino’s entrepreneurial spirit and muscle are incredibly important.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
LA’s iconic food hall, Grand Central Market, regularly tops the list of fun things to do in Los Angeles. After a busy morning of sightseeing in Hollywood, it’s a great place to stop and sample some of the best food in the city.

LA is the shopping capital of California, and Beverley Hills is home to some of the swankiest shops you’ll find in the city. Whether you like to window shop, or are prepared for a big splurge, wandering through Rodeo Drive and the boulevards of Beverley Hills is a real treat.

Pacific Park, located on the Santa Monica Pier, is one of LA’s top attractions. This theme park has everything you need for a fun afternoon, including some adrenaline-fueled rides and roller coasters.

For over a century LA has been the heartland of movie making, and you can’t visit without a taste of what it’s like to get in front of the cameras on a real life movie set. You cannot be in LA without visiting behind the scenes.

We also have the night life, I mean what can I say my friend would have to be here more than a week, but this will surely get anyone to extend their stay.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Again, My Father. Never in a million years did I ever think I would be here today, owning a apparel Brand, but losing him changed that. I was unhappy, unfulfilled, unsettled and well on my way to hitting rock bottom. I never for a second thought that I would have to live the rest of my life without my dad. I can’t call him on the phone to talk to him when I can’t make a decision. Or when I’m stressed out. I can’t just go home and hug him. I can’t thank him for everything he’s done. I can’t repay him for the sacrifices he made for our family.

The beautiful thing about hardship is that it builds empathy – the ability to feel for and connect with others. It’s about being able to put yourself in someone else’s shoes. To actually give a f-ck about someone other than yourself. For that I am forever thankful to him because without him I would not be the person I am today.

Website: www.donalfredgutierrez.com

Instagram: www.instragram.com/donalfred_gutierrez

Facebook: www.facebook.com/donalfredgutierrez/