Today we’d like to introduce you to Yesenia Collazo.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Yesenia. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Gosh, that’s a great question. I got to where I am today, honestly, with an idea I had. I think many of us have an idea to do something or start something, but the thought of actually doing it is far too scary. For me fear always hindered me before. I had so many thoughts of “what if…” but despite my thoughts this time I decided to take that leap of faith.
I embarked on my journey in opening up an online coffee shop a few months ago. In November to be precise. I have always loved a great cup of coffee – the type that after the first sip you sit back on your chair and say “ahhh”. Now, I couldn’t be more thrilled to be able to share that with everyone. At La Vida Cafe we sell imported coffee from Costa Rica -truly so aromatic and flavorful. As-well-as selling handmade ceramic mugs from Spain.
Our coffee is made with so much love and care. Starting from harvesting the coffee bean to roasting to packaging. Our farmers use two different types of farming organic and sustainable -so not only is it good for the environment, but good for our bodies!! They truly love what they do and you can taste it.
As much hard work, stress and sleepless nights goes into owning your own business; it is an experience I don’t take for granted! It truly is a blessing and a dream come true.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road. I’ve had my up’s and down’s. I had set a date for our launch party for La Vida Cafe to be two weeks away. I was so excited- this is happening! I remember a few days after I spoke to the company working on our packing…they broke the news to me they were still working on it and won’t be able to ship my order for ANOTHER two weeks. I was so crushed and so were my plans to launch on the date I set. I cried about it and was frustrated. My poor mom and sis had to hear about it for daysss.
After a moment (a few days) I realized I cannot change anything at this point and have to make the best of it. We moved our launch date and it was a success!
La Vida Cafe – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
At La Vida Cafe we are proud to serve fresh Costa Rican coffee. We have three different roasts: organic medium roast, honey medium roast, and espresso, that are organic and farmed on sustainable land.
We are proud to say we know our coffee growers. When a customer is buying from us, we can assure them their coffee is coming from some of the best farms in Costa Rica. We know for a fact that growing coffee is the first love for these farmers and they value taking caring of the land in which they farm in.
When someone goes to purchase a product, they should know that the people behind it are passionate about it. With La Vida Cafe, you’ll be able to have a little Pura Vida in each mug!
Is there something we can do as a city to improve the outlook for businesses like yours?
South Florida is a great place for La Vida Cafe. SF has great upcoming shops. And, with the hustle and bustle of Miami, everyone always needs a cup of coffee! The great part is we are an online shop so you don’t have to live in South Florida in order to enjoy La Vida Cafe’s coffee.
Contact Info:
- Email: lavidacoffees@gmail.com
- Instagram: @LaVida.cafe
- Facebook: LaVidaCafe
Image Credit:
Photo of Yesenia & photo of all three coffee bags together – taken by Karen Casilimas
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