Celebrated in the United States annually from Sept.15 – Oct. 15, National Hispanic Heritage Month pays tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched the nation and society.
Recognizing the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America, the LOOP’s month-long celebration will feature profiles of the people behind the small businesses that participate in their weekend markets and share recipes to bring a taste of Hispanic Culture home.
Dagoberto & Idalis Avila | Danubio Fashions
Dagoberto Avila and his wife Idalis are the driving forces behind Danubio Fashion. Inc. is a business steeped in the rich traditions of Cuban culture since its founding in 2018. Inspired by a family legacy, Dagoberto, who oversees the operations, and Idalis, who brings the art to life, collaborate to create beautiful crochet clothing that reflects the vibrancy and spirit of their homeland.
Danubio Fashion specializes in handmade crochet beachwear, distinguished by its bright colors and designs that echo Cuba’s relaxed, lively beaches. Each piece is meticulously crafted by Idalis, whose skill in crochet is self-taught and passionately developed, encapsulating the essence of Cuban artistry.
In addition to their crochet creations, Danubio Fashion also offers custom jewelry and accessories made from antique forks and spoons. This unique line showcases their creative versatility, transforming everyday objects into stunning, wearable art with a story of transformation and heritage.
Dagoberto and Idalis are proud to share their Cuban culture through their handcrafted designs, celebrating the art of crochet and the innovative reuse of materials. Their work at Danubio Fashion honors traditional crafts and introduces them to new audiences in meaningful, contemporary ways.
Armando & Ginnet Ahumada | Barria Bacana
Ginnet Ahumada (right) and her husband, Chef Armando (center), are the proud founders of Birria Bacana, a catering service that combines the rich flavors of Mexican and Colombian cuisine. Born in Colombia, Ginnet and her husband, who is from Cuernavaca, Mexico, launched their business in 2023 out of a shared passion for food and heritage.
Armando, a formally trained chef from Scottsdale Culinary School, brings over a decade of diverse culinary experience. Before venturing into their own business, he managed various restaurants, honing his skills and recipes. Birria Bacana offers customizable catering services, ranging from formal gatherings to casual drop-offs, often featured at The Loop and various pop-up events across South Florida.
Their menus celebrate their roots, featuring secret family recipes from Mexican and Colombian traditions. Ginnet and Armando take immense pride in educating others about their cultures through food. Their business is not just about serving meals; it’s about sharing stories and blending the unique flavors of their childhoods to create a tapestry of culinary delight that honors their heritage, love for each other, and passion for exceptional dining experiences.
Demian Bowman | JC Beans Cafe
Venezuelan-born Demian Bowman is the proud owner of JC Beans Cafe, a coffee haven he established in 2019. Driven by his passion for coffee and the joy of sharing it with others, Demian took a barista class in South Florida and received additional training from a certified Italian barista.
One unique aspect of JC Beans Cafe is the Venezuelan coffee culture it embraces. With about 20 ways to order coffee in Venezuela, Demian ensures his customers receive precisely what they desire. This attention to detail reflects the culture’s specific and flavorful coffee preferences.
Demian takes immense pride in highlighting the hardworking nature of his compatriots, coupled with their ability to savor life’s moments and relish the simple joys. As a passionate entrepreneur, he is the embodiment of Venezuela’s coffee-loving spirit, warmly welcoming customers to enjoy a rich coffee experience in a relaxing ambiance.
Johnny Cantor | J. Parker
Johnny Cantre, co-founder of J. Parker, and partner Nick Colthorp craft unique, handmade gemstone jewelry that captures the vibrant spirit of Johnny’s native homeland of Puerto Rico. Born on the island and raised there until he was 13, Johnny’s designs are infused with the island’s rich colors and passionate culture. His pieces range from simple and dainty to bold and chunky, each one a testament to the diverse styles he adores.
In 2022, Johnny left a career in retail to dedicate himself fully to J. Parker, driven by a vision to create a lasting legacy and celebrate his heritage through his craft. Completely self-taught, Johnny’s commitment to learning and evolving his technique is as fervent as his pride in his roots.
For Johnny, the greatest honor is sharing his country’s pride through his jewelry and connecting with others through the universal language of art and heritage. He and his partner Nick plan to deepen their ties to Puerto Rico by purchasing a home there, hoping to share their creations directly with the community that continues to inspire them. Johnny’s work at J. Parker is a vibrant celebration of Hispanic heritage, passionately showcasing the spirit and colors of Puerto Rico.
Ivan Comas | Fresh Organics & More
Ivan Comas, a proud Hispanic entrepreneur, is the visionary behind the thriving venture known as Fresh Organics & More. Hailing from the vibrant land of Colombia, Ivan’s journey is one of determination, fueled by a desire to be his own boss. Twenty-two years later, Fresh Organics & More and a testament to his perseverance and resourcefulness.
Offering an array of premium products, ranging from locally-sourced produce and meticulously cut fruits, to invigorating organic juices and tantalizing smoothies, Ivan infuses a touch of his heritage, honoring the essence of Hispanic culture while catering to the diverse tastes of his clientele.
Ivan’s heritage isn’t merely a backdrop; it’s an integral part of his business’s identity. Drawing inspiration from Hispanic customs, he introduces an innovative twist by infusing fruits with aromatic spices, an age-old tradition in Hispanic countries. This unique addition not only elevates the flavors but also opens a door to a world of delightful culinary exploration.
When Ivan shares his culture with others, he beams with pride. He takes immense joy in showcasing the positivity that defines his Hispanic heritage, which serves as a conduit for fostering cultural understanding and appreciation.
Jess & Gabriela Dalton-Salazar | Saucy Lips
Saucy Lips is a Mexican-American family-owned and operated company. Born from the kitchen and raised by necessity, Gabriela started selling her homemade sauces and marinades at local farmer’s markets in Arizona to help support her daughter Natalia and son, Jess Jr. through college. Today, the family business and women-led team have been expanded to stores Nationwide, including Natural Grocers, Central Market, ShopRite, and Giant. In May 2021, Saucy Lips launched their Keto, Vegan, Non-GMO, and Gluten-free products nationwide in Whole Foods.
Saucy Lips Foods believes in creating extraordinary flavors handcrafted with fresh, clean ingredients. Saucy Lips started with humble beginnings and despite having products in over 2,000 stores, the Dalton-Salazar family still sets up shop at their local farmer’s markets.
Yamile Hewitt | YH Pottery
Yamile Hewitt hails from the vibrant country of Colombia. In 2013, she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, inspired by the desire to support her daughter’s swim team while showcasing her artistic talent and adding decorative pieces to people’s homes.
As a skilled potter, Yamile honed her craft through dedicated classes. Her business, YH Pottery, offers a collection of pottery pieces that are unique, decorative, and functional, making each creation a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Colombia’s diverse landscape and lively environment influence Yamile’s art. The country’s majestic mountains, two oceans, and vibrant flowers and fruits inspire her pottery designs, infusing each piece with the essence of her homeland.
Proudly sharing Colombian culture with others, Yamile exudes the nation’s joyful spirit, hardworking nature, and welcoming demeanor through her pottery. In her art, she reflects the happiness in Colombian music, the rhythm of dance, and the warmth of constant smiles.
Silvia Iglesias | Silvia Iglesias Designs
Silvia Iglesias is the creative spirit behind Silvia Iglesias Designs, a venture that reflects her Peruvian heritage and innovative spirit. Born in San Martin, Peru, Silvia embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in August 1991, driven by her role as a single mother of three. With determination, she introduced a groundbreaking concept of single-hole ear-climbing earrings, showcasing her knack for artistic expression.
A self-taught artisan, Silvia’s creations embody her unwavering dedication to crafting unique, hand-designed jewelry. Her work resonates with the rich artisanal traditions of Peru, a country renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship and culinary excellence. Silvia’s jewelry not only showcases her artistic prowess but also pays homage to her ancestral talents and the vibrant Peruvian culture.
Drawing from the diversity of her homeland, Silvia shares Peru’s splendors with the world. As an ambassador of her country, she highlights its wonders, including the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu and its delectable culinary heritage. Silvia’s jewelry is a testament to her pride in being Peruvian, encapsulating the beauty of Peru’s landscapes and cultural tapestry.
Javier Longobari | Silver Edge Las Olas
Javier Longobardi is the proud owner of Silver Edge Las Olas, a renowned jewelry business based in Miami, USA. Born in Argentina, Javier’s family lineage traces back to Italian roots. In 1999, he ventured into the jewelry business with his two brothers. Fascinated by jewelry and accessories, they found success in silverware. However, Javier’s passion led him to attend classes at the Miami jewelry school, First Institute of Gemology & Jewelry Specialty School in Coral Gables, Florida, to refine his craft.
Silver Edge Las Olas currently specializes in crafting exquisite silver jewelry with rare and beautiful larimar stone. While Javier’s business is in the USA, he cherishes his Argentinian heritage.
Proudly sharing aspects of Argentine culture with others, Javier often introduces traditional Argentine food, desserts, and the country’s passion for soccer. Moreover, he takes pride in Argentina’s contributions to the world, including inventions like fingerprinting, the first buses, the pen, and even the first helicopter flight.
Jose Alejandro Melo Saboya | Origen Relojes y Accesorios
Jose Alejandro Melo Saboya is the visionary founder of Origen Relojes y Accesorios, a Colombian brand pioneering ecological watches and accessories for the past 20 years. Born in Colombia, Jose Alejandro channeled his architectural studies into self-taught craftsmanship emphasizing sustainability and innovative design.
Origen stands out for its unique approach to creating watches and accessories using natural materials such as wood, bamboo, leather, and preserved flowers. Each piece is not just an accessory but a piece of art, reflecting geometric and organic shapes inspired by the abstract symbols and materials of Colombia’s ancestral cultures. These designs cater to the contemporary style of both men and women, offering various designs, sizes, and colors tailored to individual personalities and lifestyles.
Jose Alejandro takes great pride in showcasing Colombians’ creativity and industrious spirit through his work. His products are more than just timekeepers; they represent cultural pride and artistic heritage. He is passionate about growing his brand as a platform for preserving and promoting the creative traditions that support many Colombian families.
Erena Mendoza | Erena’s Closet
Born in Cuba, Erena Mendoza carries the warmth and charisma of her homeland into every aspect of her life. In 2022, fueled by a deep love for fashion and a desire to help women embrace their individuality, she founded Erena’s Closet. Her boutique is more than just clothing—it’s a mission to empower women by enhancing their confidence and expressing their unique styles.
Erena’s passion for fashion was ignited in her childhood. She fondly remembers sitting on her mother’s lap as she sewed clothes for Erena and her sisters, each stitch filled with love. Her grandmother taught her to crochet, instilling in her a love for tradition and craftsmanship. Primarily self-taught, Erena also took sewing classes to refine her skills.
At Erena’s Closet, she offers a curated selection of women’s clothing that blends modern trends with timeless elegance. Each piece is chosen with care, reflecting the vibrant spirit of Cuban culture. Erena is proud to share her heritage’s exceptional hospitality and enthusiasm, welcoming every customer with open arms.
Her journey is a beautiful tapestry of family tradition, cultural pride, and a commitment to uplifting women. Erena inspires us to embrace our roots and passions wholeheartedly.
Join us in honoring Hispanic Heritage Month and celebrating women like Erena, who inspire through their dedication, creativity, and the vibrant cultures they represent.
Aurely Meneses | Kukeebubee
As vibrant and colorful as her Puerto Rican heritage, Aurely Meneses founded the fashion line Kukeebubee in 2007 after her crochet hobby blossomed into her true passion and business. Inspired by the colorful and airy pieces that perfectly represent her girly, playful, and comfortable style she later introduced bohemian clothing to her collection.
Aurely takes immense pride in sharing her country’s culture with others. From the vibrant Island food to the rhythmic music, the picturesque beaches, and the majestic mountains, she delights in embracing all Puerto Rico has to offer. The island’s fresh air and the warmth of its people add a special touch to each piece she makes and sources to reflect the essence of her homeland.
With Kukeebubee, Aurely showcases her love for her Puerto Rican heritage, inviting customers to embrace happiness, colors, and a playful sense of style.
Carol Paz Nickless | Paz Y Luna
Carol Paz Nickless is the visionary behind Paz Y Luna, a business that celebrates the beauty of handcrafted accessories from around the world. Hailing from Honduras, Carol’s family lineage connects her deeply to the tradition of handmade craftsmanship.
in 2015, Carol embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, inspired by the memories of her grandmother making and selling straw hats in the local fresh market. While she learned the art of embroidery and crochet from her grandmother, handweaving the hats remained a skill she admired. This love for all things handcrafted fueled her mission to support artisans and preserve their traditions.
Carol’s passion lies in sharing the intricate process and techniques used by artisans when creating their products. Through Paz Y Luna, she embraces the essence of cultural heritage, promoting handcrafted accessories that carry a piece of their creators’ stories and traditions. Her commitment to supporting artisans and preserving their crafts shines through in every carefully curated piece she offers.
Daniela, Johanna & Sebastian | La Ñapa
Daniela, Johanna, and Sebastian are the spirited trio behind La Ñapa, a vibrant culinary venture that started in August 2023 with the mission to introduce Colombian flavors to new and unexpected places. Born and raised in Colombia, these self-taught entrepreneurs craft a delicious array of traditional Colombian snacks, including empanadas, sweet corn, arepas, and an assortment of refreshing juices like passion fruit, coconut lemonade, lulo, blackberry, and sugar cane.
La Ñapa is more than just a food business; it’s a cultural ambassador. The team is dedicated to showcasing the warmth, happiness, and unique expressions that define Colombian and broader Latin culture. Through their offerings, they aim to impart a slice of Colombia to everyone who tries their food, educating and delighting their customers with each bite.
What fills Daniela, Johanna, and Sebastian with the most pride is the ability to represent Colombians and Latinos positively, ensuring that each visitor to their stand leaves with a favorable impression and a taste of their homeland. They cherish the opportunity to share their essence with the market, meet incredible people, and continue expanding their flavorful offerings, grateful for the chance to contribute to the community and share their culture during Hispanic Heritage Month and beyond.
Olga Ramirez | Handmade by Gachy
Olga Ramirez is the creative mind behind Handmade by Gachy, a business she started in 2015. Originally from Colombia, Olga’s passion for crocheting and creating handmade items began as a hobby, leading her to establish her business.
Self-taught and driven by her love for crochet, Olga’s creations are offered at various South Florida markets and showcased on her Instagram page. Her products reflect the unique aspects of Colombian culture, embracing tradition as a key element in her handmade pieces.
When sharing her country’s culture with others, Olga takes great pride in representing the values that define Colombia, such as love, honesty, and friendship. As a Colombian-American, she cherishes her dual heritage, finding inspiration in both cultures to infuse her dolls with a blend of traditions and creativity.
Handmade by Gachy is a testament to Olga’s love for her Colombian roots, and her journey as an artist and entrepreneur showcases the beauty of cultural fusion and the celebration of traditions through her craft.
Angel Rivera | Dialed In Coffee
Angel Rivera, founder of Dialed In Coffee, started his business in December 2022 with the goal of sharing his passion for coffee across South Florida. Born to a Dominican mother and Puerto Rican father, Angel grew up with café con leche as a morning staple, fueling his love for bold, authentic coffee flavors.
A self-taught espresso expert, Angel offers a variety of beverages, including cappuccinos, lattes, coladas, and cortaditos, all known for their rich, double-shot strength. His coffee cart has become a popular feature every Sunday at TheMKT at Las Olas Oceanside Park and local markets in South Florida. His business expanded further when he secured his first permanent café location at DHL. There, Angel is proud to create a welcoming environment where employees can connect, relax, and enjoy their coffee breaks.
Angel also values the community connections he’s made, particularly at farmers markets, where he met Mauricio from Sublime Crust. Mauricio now delivers over 50 pastries weekly to the DHL café, enhancing the coffee experience with delicious baked goods.
Proud to celebrate his Hispanic heritage, Angel continues to share the warmth and joy of his culture through every cup he serves.
Angela Suarez | Axcessorybar
Angela Suarez, the creative mind behind AXCESSORYBAR, launched her jewelry business in April 2018, marking a pivotal moment of transformation where her creativity and ambition converged. Born in Barranquilla, Colombia, and raised in a bicultural home with a Colombian father and an American mother from Chicago, Angie’s designs are a fusion of these rich cultural influences.
Educated in Textile Design in Colombia, Angie moved to New York in 1981, where she met her future husband and began learning the art of jewelry making from her mother-in-law, a renowned jewelry designer. This mentorship ignited Angie’s lifelong passion and skill, shaping her path in the jewelry industry. After years of working a stable job to support her daughter, Angie relocated to South Florida in 2012, seeking a fresh start and ultimately founding AXCESSORYBAR.
AXCESSORYBAR specializes in Gold-filled jewelry, offering pieces in stainless steel and silver through an online shop and pop-up stores. Angie loves to engage directly with her customers, crafting personalized, meaningful pieces on the spot. Her collection includes vibrant accents and meaningful pendants, each infused with the lively colors of her Colombian heritage.
Angie is most proud of how her jewelry, blending Colombian and American elements, is embraced by others, fostering shared connections through artistry. Her journey from Colombia to New York and finally to South Florida embodies a narrative of resilience, creativity, and cross-cultural celebration.
Yeni Ramos | Fussion Healthy315
Yeni Ramos, the passionate chef behind Fussion Healthy315, was born in Caracas, Venezuela. In 2020, she embarked on her culinary journey, fueled by her love for cooking and the joy of sharing delicious meals with friends.
Combining her innate talent with formal education, Yeni is both self-taught and a certified healthy chef. Her culinary expertise shines through in her business, where she offers a unique dining experience through her signature dish, the “Arepa Bowl.” This innovative twist on the traditional arepa, along with other Venezuelan delights like corn pancakes, tequeños, and empanadas, showcases the essence of her country’s rich culinary culture.
Yeni takes immense pride in sharing her country’s gastronomic treasures with the world. Through her food, she introduces people to the wonders of Venezuelan cuisine, showing the beauty of her homeland’s culinary traditions.
Yeni’s passion for cooking goes beyond just making delicious dishes; it’s about serving people and creating a memorable experience. For her, the opportunity to work with others and share her food brings her immense joy and satisfaction.
Jose Rodriquez | Elefante
Jose Rodriguez, the founder of Elefante, has been channeling his passion for handmade crafts into his business since the year 2000. With roots deeply embedded in the rich cultural landscape of his homeland, Peru. Jose’s journey began solo and later led him to hone his skills at the Taxco Jewelry School in Mexico, known for its exquisite silver work.
Elefante offers an eclectic mix of tie-dye clothing, leather bracelets, and uniquely crafted pipes made from “Tawa,” a tree native to the Amazon jungle. Each product is a testament to Jose’s dedication to craftsmanship, showcasing the vibrant and diverse culture of his homeland. His leather bracelets and Tawa pipes, in particular, highlight the unique aspects of artisanal traditions that Jose is passionate about preserving and sharing.
Jose takes immense pride in sharing his Peruvian heritage through Elefante’s offerings, especially the handcrafted nature of his products, which echo his country’s artisanal traditions. Beyond his crafts, he loves celebrating and sharing Peru’s rich culinary culture with others, further enriching the cultural exchange.
A fun fact that Jose enjoys sharing is that Machu Picchu, often associated with his products’ intricate and timeless beauty, is one of the seven contemporary wonders of the world—an emblem of the enduring spirit and creativity that he aims to embody through Elefante.
Eboni Wilson | Craft Addicts
Eboni Wilson, the creative brainchild behind Craft Addicts, brings Puerto Rican vibrancy to the heart of Florida. Born in the Sunshine State, but deeply connected to her Puerto Rican roots, Eboni founded Craft Addicts in June 2022. Her business journey is a testament to her commitment to instilling values of hard work and determination in her children.
A self-taught artisan, Eboni pours her passion into Craft Addicts, a full-service printing company specializing in one-of-a-kind tumblers and apparel. Her creations not only bear unique designs but also reflect the rich culture of Puerto Rico through their vibrant colors and patterns.
Eboni’s business is more than just a printing company—it’s a bridge between cultures. She takes immense pride in showcasing Puerto Rico’s richness, from its vibrant colors to its inviting traditions. She lights up when customers express curiosity about her heritage and its wonders. Through Craft Addicts, Eboni not only delivers exceptional products but also shares the story of Puerto Rico, inspiring others to explore its beauty and diversity
Martha Yanes | Moonlight Collection
Martha Yanes (R) is the founder and visionary behind Moonlight Collection, a fashion business specializing in resort women’s wear crafted from linen and cotton. Hailing from Cuba, Martha’s love for fashion and her Caribbean roots inspired her to launch the venture in July 2021, with a focus on creating colorful and vibrant clothing pieces.
Armed with an entrepreneurial spirit, Martha’s passion for fashion is evident in her unique collection, which includes dresses, pants, tops, bags, and accessories. Her designs embody the laid-back and sunny vibes of tropical destinations.
Through her business, Martha takes immense pride in sharing Cuban culture with the world. The island’s rich heritage is evident in the way they cherish family traditions, their flavorful cuisine, and the warmth of the people. Embracing these aspects, Moonlight Collection brings a piece of Cuban charm to women’s fashion, celebrating the beauty and uniqueness of the Caribbean culture in every stitch and pattern.