Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Salas
Maria, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
El Manantial Market began over 35 years ago when my grandmother Margot left Colombia in search of a better life. Alone in a new country, she felt a deep longing for her homeland and a calling to create something special. With just a few Colombian products and a dream, she opened El Manantial Market 14 years ago, a place that would become a home away from home for Colombians.
As the years passed and challenges arose, El Manantial Market faced the threat of closing due to lack of recognition and financial difficulties. It was during this critical time that her children, David and Angie, joined her in the business, sharing her vision and her longing for their homeland. Together, they poured their hearts into the business, fighting against the odds and the economic challenges they faced. Their determination and unwavering dedication transformed El Manantial into a place where Colombians could feel the warmth and familiarity of their homeland.
My grandma always knew God’s plan, and for her, it was never just a dream—it was a whisper from God during her prayers. When Abuelita Margot’s eldest granddaughter, Margarita, and her children joined the business, our family’s dream truly came to life. Together, we joined forces and worked as one, turning my grandma’s prayers into reality: uniting our family and bringing Colombia to all families in United States.
Today, El Manantial Market offers over 500 Colombian products and stands as a beacon of hope and nostalgia for those who have left their homeland. It’s a place where Colombians in Miami can find a taste of home, share stories, and even shed tears of joy. It’s more than just a store; it’s a home for everyone who yearns for the land they left behind.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
El Manantial Market has faced countless obstacles throughout its journey. When my grandmother Margot started the business over 14 years ago, she was alone in a new country, with limited resources and little recognition. Financial struggles and the challenge of building trust in a new community nearly forced the doors to close.
When her children, David and Angie, stepped in, they had to overcome these financial difficulties while also learning the business from scratch. It wasn’t easy—long hours, countless setbacks, and moments of doubt tested their determination.
Later, when Margarita and her children joined, the challenge became about scaling the business while preserving its heart and soul. As a family, we had to adapt to changing demands, expand our offerings to over 500 Colombian products, and build a space that felt like home for Colombians in Miami.
Through every challenge, faith and unity guided us. El Manantial Market is more than just a business—it’s a testament to resilience, love, and the belief that even in the hardest moments, a whisper of hope can carry you forward.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My name is Maria Salas, but everyone calls me Lala. I’m the granddaughter of Margot, the visionary founder of El Manantial Market. When I joined the family business, I saw it as my mission to give it a voice and ensure that it became more than just a store—it became a true home for Colombians in Miami, a place where people could feel connected to their roots, even when far away.
I’m a creative and a marketing strategist with over 6 years of experience. I specialize in turning customer desires into reality. If I don’t know something, I learn it. I’m a chameleon who adapts to every situation, person, and brief. From marketing management to content creation and social media strategy, I’ve had the privilege of working with top-tier agencies in the U.S. and Mexico.
In addition to my role at El Manantial, I manage the marketing of it, making it the ‘Best of Miami 2023.’ I coordinate marketing and creative strategies, oversee campaign timelines, allocate resources, and ensure successful execution. I lead a team of five, driving collaboration and efficiency to achieve our goals.
My heart it’s deeply connected to El Manantial. As part of this family legacy, I bring my marketing expertise to ensure our business grows and continues to be a place where Colombians can find comfort, community, and a taste of home.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.manantialmarket.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manantialmarket/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@manantialmarket
Image Credits
David D’Anetra
