Meet Stef Salcedo | Business owner

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

Hi Stef, what matters most to you?
The values that matter most to me are integrity, empathy, and growth. Integrity is essential because I believe in being honest and true to my word, which builds trust and respect in relationships. Empathy is important because it allows me to understand and connect with others, fostering a sense of community and support. Lastly, I value growth, both personal and professional, because it helps me improve, adapt, and contribute meaningfully to the world around me. These principles guide me in making decisions and shaping how I engage with others.

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?
Gems Market is a unique vendor market thoughtfully curated by a small business, for small businesses. Our mission is to create a supportive and thriving community where entrepreneurs and makers can showcase their products, connect with customers, and grow their businesses. Each vendor is handpicked to bring a diverse array of high-quality goods and services, creating an enriching shopping experience for all. At Gems Market, we believe in the power of small businesses to make a big impact, and we’re proud to support and uplift local talent and creativity in every corner of our marketplace. Building a successful business took a lot of hard work, dedication, and a deep belief in my vision. From the very beginning, I focused on understanding the needs of both my vendors and customers, striving to create a marketplace that truly added value. It required countless hours of planning, strategizing, and adapting to changing circumstances. I made sure to build strong relationships with my vendors, fostering a supportive community where we could all thrive together. Financially, it was essential to stay disciplined, reinvesting wisely and managing resources carefully to keep the business growing. I also had to stay persistent through challenges, always learning from setbacks and using them as stepping stones. Ultimately, success came from staying true to my passion, staying adaptable, and believing in the power of collaboration.

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?
Miami is a vibrant city filled with a mix of culture, art, and beautiful landscapes. If you’re planning a day out with a friend, here’s how you can make the most of it. Start your morning with a visit to South Beach, where you can stroll along the iconic Ocean Drive and enjoy the views of the beach. Grab a coffee or breakfast at one of the trendy cafes in the area, like **Big Pink** or **The News Cafe**.

After that, head to the Wynwood Walls one of Miami’s most famous outdoor art galleries. The colorful street art and murals will inspire your creative side, and you can take plenty of photos to remember the day.

For lunch, why not head to Brickell City Centre? It’s a chic neighborhood with a range of dining options, from upscale restaurants to casual spots with amazing views of the city skyline.

In the afternoon, take a boat ride around Biscayne Bay to see the city from the water. You can rent a small boat or join a guided tour to explore the nearby islands and star-studded homes along the coast.

Wrap up your day by heading to Miami’s Design District where you can shop at high-end boutiques, admire the modern architecture, and visit art galleries. For dinner, you can dine at one of the elegant restaurants in the area, like Swan or Zuma known for its sophisticated ambiance and delicious cuisine.

End the evening with a sunset at Key Biscayne or take in some live music at a local venue in the Coconut Grove area. Miami’s vibrant nightlife will offer you the perfect way to unwind after a fun-filled day!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
God first, he’s given me the strength and courage to once again step out and do what I love. Serve. My husband who supports and encourages me every step of the way, my children who inspire me and push me to show them anything they want to achieve is possible with God and hardwork. My Michi, who is one of my biggest supporters and one of the most influential people in my life. Lastly my in laws, who encourage me and support me through my journey of pursuing my dreams.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/og.gemsmarket

Image Credits
@branded.byjess_