Today we’d like to introduce you to Ana Mota.
Hi Ana, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am a native of the Dominican Republic; my parents have always been entrepreneurs including a retail business and later expanding into transportation logistics; I grew up immersed in their businesses where I learned from my parent’s skills concerning business creation and development, sales, consulting, and negotiation skills. From an early age, I remembered joining my father when he visited his customers in the afternoon, I would assist by taking notes and collecting payables. I always was amazed how my Dad could calculate everything in his head without a calculator which he still does to this day. I believe the skill and challenge keep his brain active and sharp.
From the Dominican Republic (DR) I moved to New York City where I completed a Master’s Degree in Hospitality Studies at New York University (NYU). During my tenure at NYU, I was working full-time first at the New Yorker Hotel near Madison Square Garden and later at the world-famous Waldorf-Astoria Hotel located at 50th Street and Park Avenue.
Coming from the DR the experience of 4 distinct seasons in New York City led to my appreciation and desire to work with leather, a material I could wear and accessorize year-round. From lined options during the winter months which cut the wind and chill to perforated options perfect for summer evenings, my leather apparel options were literally in use throughout the year.
Yet I also became intrigued concerning leather beyond apparel. As such a versatile material, I was able to add different products to my line including but not limited to luggage identity tags, multiple designs for wine bottle caddy’s, individual table place settings, tablecloths (an indulgent luxury when compared to cloth and plastic), business/bank cardholders, handbags, and even personal beauty accessories including earrings, hair clips/bands, belts, and other products.
What I believe differentiates leather from so many other materials is its durability, longevity, and enhanced patina as a result of use and age. There is actually an ecological benefit as leather’s durability and the passage from one generation to the next lessens energy consumption and waste associated with newly produced products. Of note when I used to travel extensively, I always observed how different cultures use leather in both fashion and functionality which always impressed me and just like that, my business started.
One of my most popular feature items is my Leather Belts; all hand-made in Argentina using the highest quality hides with enhanced durability that overtime of ownership creates an emotional connection with its owner becoming the comfort accessory that you will always take with you. My husband has worn one of my prototype belts for 20+ years. While still in excellent condition, the belt has taken on a patina and softness that cannot be replicated. It is his go-to for jeans and casual pants year-round.
Originally my business was focused on wholesale i.e., the trade and corporate accessories. When my family relocated to South Florida, I decided to provide the option of direct retail. What continues to motivate me is receiving feedback from my customers; they love the products, the attention to detail, my customer service, fast fulfillment/delivery, and of course quality. The bread and butter of my business are my repeat clients who have experienced Ana Mota leather and continually inquire about our expanding line of products. https://www.etsy.com/shop/ANAMOTALEATHER
My Ana Mota Leather business is a labor of love and a welcome change from my full-time work as an Adverting Senior Business Development Manager focusing on strategic accounts globally for Expedia working out of an office in Brickell.
If you are interested in wholesale opportunities, please contact me. Please visit my site and I am looking forward to mailing some product to your door. https://www.etsy.com/shop/ANAMOTALEATHER
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of the biggest challenges I face is the lack of brand recognition and awareness. I am literally the new kid in town and there is immense competition in the fashion and accessories industry including large multi-national brands. Yet I can guarantee that I offer a superior quality of leather that is ethically sourced and products that are hand constructed by local artisans based on generations of knowledge and skills. In many respects, my line is an anomaly, especially in today’s world of fast, disposable fashion and accessories. My products are the opposite. The designs are timeless, the workmanship is superior, the products continue to improve with use and age. While we all desire to lessen waste and consumption, my leather products are constructed and designed to not be the accessory of the moment but instead of a lifetime; your go-to no matter how the winds of fashion change course.
What matters most to you?
I consider myself a purveyor of both enduring products and superior client-centric service. For me, the most important aspect of my business is client satisfaction. In a nutshell, I want my clients to be happy and satisfied. My goal is not to meet but to exceed their expectations. Satisfied clients and repeat sales are my market indicators of a “job well done”. I literally read every single review, comment, and feedback I receive. When possible, I try to answer personally concerning all comments. On occasion, I have received a negative comment, it happens as one cannot satisfy the masses. In such situations, I attend to the matter personally including but not limited to replacement of the product, a future credit, and if the desired refund. Client satisfaction is paramount. When I started the business, I was asked, “What book is on your nightstand?” I answered “The Nordstrom Way to Customer Service Excellence,” After 115 years in business Nordstrom’s must be doing something right. I hope to emulate their success in my small business.
Pricing:
- $12
- $14
- $18
- $35
- $45 +
Contact Info:
- Email: annmota@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anamota.co
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Anamotaofficial
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/anamotaofficial
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ANAMOTALEATHER
Image Credits
José Ernesto Peña
