On July 26th, 2024, I embarked on an unforgettable journey to Guatemala, thanks to an invitation from my friend Enrique to spend two weeks with his family. As someone who’s always open to new experiences, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture. So, with bags packed at the last minute, we set off on an adventure that would become much more than just a vacation.
From the moment we arrived, I was embraced by the warmth of Guatemalan hospitality. Staying with Enrique’s family, the Chacons, I truly experienced the country as a native would. Their strong sense of family, the deep-rooted traditions, and the incredible kindness they showed me made me feel like a part of their world. In just a few days, I began picking up the language, learning the local slang, and feeling more connected to the culture than I ever imagined possible.
Though I could go on about the countless incredible experiences I shared with Enrique and his family, there’s one aspect of the trip that I want to highlight—how I managed to work efficiently and kill two birds with one stone by combining vacationing with brand development.
Knowing I would be away from home and eager to keep developing Mercado Goods, I strategically packed eight shirts from our new collection. My goal was to capture content for the brand whenever the opportunity arose. And what better backdrop than the vibrant streets and stunning landscapes of Guatemala? From shooting at local mercados to hiking to the summit of one of the country’s tallest volcanoes, we found ways to incorporate the essence of Guatemala into our campaigns.
While I initially hoped to involve local models in the shoots, I was met with rejection. But that didn’t stop us. Enrique and I became the faces of the latest campaigns, making the most of what we had. The result? A series of photos and videos that carry the spirit of our adventure and the resilience of our journey.
This upcoming release excites me more than any before because there’s a deeper story behind the visuals. The message of our next collection, "Canta y No Llores," resonates strongly with the experiences we had on this trip. It’s a reminder to find light in the darkest moments, to persevere through obstacles, and to keep moving forward even when the path seems impossible.
As I continue to navigate the challenges in my personal life, I’m reminded of the importance of efficiency—of using every opportunity to move closer to my goals. This trip wasn’t just about exploring a new country; it was about finding creative ways to keep the brand alive and thriving, even when circumstances weren’t ideal.
P.S. If you’ve made it this far, here’s a little reminder: The "Canta y No Llores" collection will be available on September 15th, with only eight shirts up for grabs. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me.
