Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria M. Ruiz.
Maria, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
It all started with AOL (talk about a throwback, right?). I wanted to have a unique screen name and decided to combine two languages: “chibi” (Japanese word meaning “little”) and “loulou” (Latin word meaning “light”). Little did I know that this would eventually become the name of my company. I unknowingly put CHIBILOULOU together one piece at a time. It started with photography. I had an eye for capturing beautiful images. The next piece I discovered by accident when I found I had a talent for writing poetry that made people happy. These two passions became the foundation of my company.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
As a small business owner I wear many hats. Figuring out every aspect of my business from legal to IT, to design, and dozens of other things by myself has been equally challenging and rewarding. I would also say gaining exposure has been a struggle. It’s tough getting your brand out there, and it’s tough showing up every day for your business along with your 9 to 5 job––I’m always tired (haha), but I believe in CHIBILOULOU and I am determined to keep working hard at it.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about CHIBILOULOU – what should we know?
Everything you see on www.chibiloulou.com comes from my own imagination. I write, print, and sell inspirational quotes, poems, and paper goods. All writing is original and all designs are hand-drawn by my husband. I print locally (support small business!) and take pride in the details. Fonts, color, design, paper quality, packaging––it’s all meticulously conceptualized. As an added touch, when someone buys a product, they receive a personal hand-written note. I believe in the power of words and I hope that my words are inspirational.
If you had to start over, what would you have done differently?
A lesson I am still learning is to not let perfection be the enemy of progress. It’s easy to get wrapped up in wanting everything you put out to be a perfect masterpiece, but no one is thinking about what you are doing––or not doing––as much as you are. We all have to start somewhere, and the first step is the most difficult one. Besides, it’s kinda fun to see past creations and see how far you’ve come. It’s part of your history and should be valued.
What’s next for CHIBILOULOU?
I’m currently working on two sister brands: “Dark Rabbit Society,” the antithesis of CHIBILOULOU in the sense that it will be a sarcastic, dark-humored greeting card line, and “Monkhouse Studio,” a whimsical brand that will tap into your inner child. I have a clear vision of what I want my businesses to be; it’s just a matter of continuing to work hard to make that vision a reality. I’m already on my way. Stay tuned!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chibiloulou.com
- Email: info@chibiloulou.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chibiloulou/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chibiloulou/
Image Credit:
Jeanne Canto
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