Story & Lesson Highlights with Celeste Gomez of Los Angeles

Celeste Gomez shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Celeste, 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 are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I would say a routine that even no one sees, it’s a routine that’s made best for me. It’s a routine that can work for my lifestyle, balance, and mental health. It’s constantly growing, and I’m learning to adapt my writing career with it.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
LA-based Latina Poet and Author, Celeste Alyssa Gomez, is a ground-breaking performer who rose from the world of self-publishing. She’s also the owner and founder of her company, La Poeta Publications. She completed her first tour in 2025 called Los Recuerdos – a tour highlighting the poetry within Celeste’s first book, BESOS. BESOS is available in both English and Spanish and has been featured in various articles/podcasts like HipLatina, Harness Magazine, Latina Leadership, and more. It’s in various bookstores within the U.S. and internationally, including big retailers like Barnes & Noble. Her other work includes the CHISMOSA Zine, CHIILLONA Zine, and she’s a co-editor as well as a co-founder for the Hermosa y Libros Book Festival.

Celeste signed with Alegría Publishing in July 2025 to produce DIOSA. Alegría Publishing is one of the most notable publishers that focuses on publishing Latine/x stories and supporting new emerging voices. Alegría is a community that connects, inspires, and highlights the beauty, the lineage, the thousands of years of positive contributions to this planet by artists & leaders of color.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
I used to believe that being soft and strong couldn’t co-exist. I learned that no longer applies in my adulthood because I embrace the chillona that I am. To be soft is also powerful, which is reflected in my sophomore collection, Diosa.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Before my first book tour started, I felt the need to give up because so many things were and are happening in the world, which has been heartbreaking and overwhelming. There was a point at which I felt completely drained and stressed. I asked myself if it was even worth it? Having a close support system goes a long way because without them, I don’t think I’d still be doing what I am now if it wasn’t for the people in my life reminding me of my strength.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My friends would say that I care deeply about creating art that feels true, healing, and empowering — especially for our community. That my writing isn’t just a hobby; it’s a purpose. They would also say that I show up for people, create safe spaces, and make others feel understood.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m with people and a community that make me feel validated. I’ve been able to establish more peace in my life these past few years by creating boundaries. Setting boundaries felt uncomfortable at first. I feared disappointing people. But the more I honored my limits, the more I realized I was choosing my well-being. Now, my days feel lighter, my mind clearer, and my heart so much calmer. Boundaries didn’t push people away — they brought me back to myself.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lapoetapublications.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celestealyssagomez/

Image Credits
Photographer: Richard Gonzales
Publisher: Alegría Publishing