Today we’d like to introduce you to Carolina
Hi Carolina, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Growing up, I was deeply inspired by my mom, an entrepreneur who always found creative and resourceful ways to support our family. Her determination and creativity planted a seed in me. When I moved to the U.S. in my twenties, I felt an even stronger desire to reconnect with my vibrant Colombian roots—a country bursting with colors, delicious foods, and breathtaking landscapes that continually inspire me.
My epiphany came when people started admiring and asking about the handmade Colombian accessories I wore. Each compliment became a reminder that I had the opportunity to do more than share beautiful jewelry—I could actively uplift the talented artisans who made it.
That’s how Makarla was born. Through our handmade Colombian jewelry, we celebrate Colombia’s rich heritage, vibrant colors, and the diverse beauty of its landscapes. Most importantly, we ensure our artisans earn fair wages, helping them sustain their families, especially in communities where steady income isn’t always guaranteed. Each Makarla piece is thoughtfully designed for modern men and women seeking meaningful accessories that carry stories of authenticity, beauty, and purpose, allowing them to wear something unique and make a difference with every purchase.
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?
No, it hasn’t.
Like most entrepreneurs, we start with a dream that we don’t know where it will take us. We don’t know what we don’t know. Financing, marketing, inventory, profit margins—everything is like throwing spaghetti at the wall and learning from costly mistakes.
I opened two brick-and-mortar stores, one in Wynwood that had to be closed after a hurricane (I don’t remember which one) and the second one at The Falls, which we had to close during COVID.
My husband is in the military, and being an entrepreneur and an army wife can be challenging. Every time you move, it is like starting from scratch.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I graduated with an architecture degree from Colombia, and when I moved to the US, my family and I decided to stay. I didn’t want to spend another three to four years getting another expensive degree, so, like many other immigrants, I started working. I worked for high-end furniture stores in Miami, which allowed me to work in design and apply some of my knowledge.
I have been an entrepreneur all my life; why didn’t I pursue that from the beginning? I don’t know; I think it was a lack of direction and opportunities in my country to follow a non-traditional career. My superpower is a good eye for design, which has allowed me to curate the most beautiful artisanal jewelry and accessories from Colombian artisans.
I’m proud of my resilience and the brand I have built. Makarla is known for authentic, handcrafted jewelry that blends tradition and purpose with modern design and style. Our core product is our Handcrafted Bracelets, and our customers rave about their high quality and unique design.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love the vibrant Latin culture of Miami and, of course, the weather. What I like the least…drivers.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://makarlashop.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makarlashop/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makarlashop
