Veronica Medina shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Veronica , a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
It’s interesting. I always feel that when I am travelling and exploring a new city or town I tend to loose track of time and get to know my present self a little more while getting to know the place and its people and culture. I enjoy the most going on travel adventures with my husband and kids.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Veronica Medina. I was born in Argentina and lived there till I graduated high school. After that I lived in Europe (Germany, Switzerland and UK) for a few years while I was learning languages, going to hotel management school and having my first job experiences in the hospitality industry.
I moved to Miami with my husband Juan Pablo about 22 years ago. We are owners of a Boutique Hotel management company, Alquimia Hospitality Group. We manage 3 hotels in South Beach Miami : Leslie hotel, The Shepley Hotel and Nassau Suite Hotel (reopened after an extensive renovation) . We also recently opened Blue Lavender Cafe & Market – a healthy, organic restaurant and cafe with a curated gift shop. This a project that was long in the making and an extension in a way of our home and the hospitality we so much love. We are busy with these four projects, as we are very much hands on everything and always looking for new challenges and adventures.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I think becoming a mother for the first time (I now have 3 kids- young adults!) shaped the way I see the world. I am always trying to make contributions to it to leave it better than how I found it for my kids. Also it has made me a bit more cautious and organized, plus not afraid to delegate (you can’t run a business and family life if you are not organized and willing to delegate).
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
I believe suffering can teach resilience, how strong you can be, that it’s ok to ask for help. Also who in your tribe can be your rock.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I am committed through Blue Lavender Cafe to a healthy revolution in Miami. I would like the hotel guests and tourists in the area to know that you can have fun traveling, enjoy delicious meals and nourish your body at the same time.
I would like Blue Lavender Cafe to be part of the community not only for the health/ fitness fans but for everyone. My next goal is to reach out to influential members of the community so that I can work with them and achieve the goal of making this space available to everyone for their meals, celebrations and also as a work space. Also the goal is to educate with workshops, newsletters, through social media about healthy lifestyle and good choices.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace either curled up reading and enjoying a cup of coffee, going for a run alone or with friends, spending time with my husband and kids.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.alquimiahg.com, www.nassausuite.com,www.theshepleyhotel.com, www.lesliehotel.com, www.bluelavendercafe.com
- Instagram: @alquimiahg, @nassausuitehotelmiami @theshepleyhotelmiami, @lesliehotelmiami @bluelavendercafe
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-medina-63a9a723/
