Meet Mariela Valera | Event planner

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

Hi Mariela, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I had a million thoughts about starting my own business, but I always knew I was meant for more. I thought about all the negative things that can go wrong. I easily started to realize that it was normal to feel that way. It is normal to feel like you’re taking a risk. If you see the vision don’t let all the negative thoughts get in the way and just go for it. The more you wait, the more you won’t do it. Put it on a calendar and get to work. It is scary but it’s so worth it in the end. I call it a learning experience.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Sograte.Co was founded in 2020 by myself Mariela Valera & my mother. The passion that cultivated this idea started when the pandemic hit and an idea came to mind, what would be a better way to enjoy an experience outdoors? Since everything was closed and the majority of our social experiences were compromised, I figured this would still give people the chance to celebrate any special occasion. Also, let’s be real, let’s skip the ordinary dinners, birthdays & proposals. Sograte.Co makes your special day unforgettable. I then started creating charcuterie boards and small setups for my friends and family & received amazing feedback. Nonetheless, it inspired me to start my own business, and bring to light a way where you can enjoy an amazing experience in a beautiful setting.

What I’m most excited about is watching my company continue to grow. It’s been so sweet to see my business thrive in just a short year and a half. I’ve done small promotions but it has mostly been word of mouth. I think leadership and discipline mean a lot when it comes to business. It sure wasn’t the easiest ride but it wasn’t the hardest with a lot of hard work, long days, and long nights it’s transformed my business. I’ve learned that a lot of patience and remaining a positive attitude can take your business a long way.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We would recommend contacting Sograte.Co for a luxury pop-up picnic experience! You wont regret it.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shoutout is to my parents for always encouraging me to do anything I desire. I couldn’t be more grateful for having them pave the wave and teaching me that in life you have to work hard for what you want. Nothing is ever promised, it is not always successful but you won’t know if you don’t try. When I thought about this business venture they were the first ones to support me. I owe it all to them.

Website: sograte.co

Instagram: sograte.co