We had the good fortune of connecting with Yen Rodeiro and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Yen, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Before starting Leopine, we ran a business named Tiempo de Lujo, which was one of the largest horology-related media outlets in Spain and the biggest club for watch enthusiasts in Barcelona. Therefore, we had already been directly involved in the watchmaking industry for many years. In early 2015, while my partner and I were on the beach here in Barcelona, we came up with the idea of launching swimsuits with watchmaking motifs. Since swim shorts offer a lot of freedom to experiment and try unique designs, which can be challenging in other types of garments, we believed it would be an exceptional and enjoyable concept to combine our passion for watches with trunks.
After a while of research and planning, we established Leopine as a brand dedicated to creating swimsuits inspired by the world of horology. Our goal was to provide watch enthusiasts and fashion-forward individuals with a distinctive and stylish option for expressing themselves, match their watches and build a community of watch enthusiasts around the brand.
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?
Leopine has always distinguished itself as a unique and distinctive brand. Our concept is niche and tailored to a specific audience: true connoisseurs who appreciate the fusion of art and watchmaking expressed through fabric. We strongly believe in the value of community and honesty, which is why providing excellent after-sales service and maintaining a close relationship with our customers is of utmost importance to us
Operating within a specialized market has taught us the importance of being meticulous and consistent. If there is a product or design that doesn’t resonate with our customers, we quickly move on to the next idea without dwelling on it too much. We understand the significance of staying adaptable and responsive to the preferences of our discerning clientele.
At Leopine, we strive to create a seamless experience for our customers. From the initial purchase to the ongoing relationship, we prioritize delivering exceptional quality and ensuring that our customers feel valued and heard. We are dedicated to continuously refining and expanding our product offerings to meet the evolving demands of our niche market.
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.
Barcelona has plenty of fantastic options for dining and things to do when you have friends visiting. Here’s a simple itinerary you can follow:
Start your day by enjoying a refreshing drink by the sea. There are many great spots where you can have a relaxed aperitif and take in the beautiful views.
For lunch, treat yourselves to a traditional Spanish dish – paella! Terraza Martínez is a fantastic place to try it. They serve delicious paella while you enjoy the stunning outdoor terrace.
Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming Gòtic area. It’s a historic neighborhood with narrow streets and beautiful architecture, perfect for exploring and capturing some Instagram-worthy photos.
If you’re up for more fun, head to La Papa for a tasty brunch. They offer a variety of delicious dishes in a lively atmosphere, ensuring a memorable experience.
To end the day on a high note, visit the W Hotel Pool Terrace for the “Tardeo” experience. It’s a wonderful place to relax, sip on drinks, and enjoy the poolside ambiance.
Luckily, Barcelona is a vibrant city with endless attractions and activities to keep you entertained!
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 give a heartfelt shoutout to three groups that are instrumental to Leopine: my partners, my parents, and our valued customers. Without them, we would not be where we are today.
Website: https://leopine.es/
Instagram: leopine_showroom