Hidden Gems: Meet Ana Chean of DVINE by Ana

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ana Chean. 

Hi Ana, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My name is Ana Chean and I’m 27 years old. I grew up in The Valley but I was born in Honduras. Coming to the U.S. at an early age of 5 years old has given me a lot of opportunities. After high school, I wasn’t completely sure about what I wanted to do but I went ahead and pursued nursing while working part-time jobs. It definitely came with its challenges and over time I realized that nursing was not my dream. From 2019 to early 2021 I worked as an office manager at a construction company. Although it was a great opportunity, I just knew it wasn’t the right place for me. I didn’t want to be stuck in a 9-5 forever. I wanted to do something that I could call mine. I really wanted to be my own boss. That is when I knew I wanted to start my own business. It took months of planning and brainstorming, but in March 2021, I opened my online boutique named DVINE by Ana. I remember being so scared because I didn’t want to fail and I had never taken such a huge step before. More than anything, I was afraid to disappoint my husband and mom. They are my biggest supporters and none of this would be possible without them. All the love and support that I have continuously received from my family, friends, and even strangers, has made my business become one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Not only has my business grown quickly in less than a year but it has also helped me grow as a person. I love what I do and I am blessed to have amazing customers who support my brand in any way they can. 

Being a Latina and a D.A.C.A. recipient, I want to be an example for every DREAMER and Latina out there that may feel discouraged or lost at times. I want to show them that they, too, can pursue their dreams and take every opportunity life hands them. 

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?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. There’s been times where I have been extremely hard on myself for not accomplishing certain business goals or I’ve doubted my abilities to run a business. I always feel like I should be doing more, even though I know I give 110% to my business. Another challenge has been those slow months/days where I don’t get any sales and inventory piles up. It can be discouraging but it also motivates me to keep promoting my business and find new marketing strategies. One of my goals this year is to be nicer to myself and find balance between my personal life and business. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about DVINE by Ana?
DVINE by Ana is a Latina-owned women’s clothing boutique based in Los Angeles, CA. My brand is inspired by every woman regardless of their skin color, body shape, or size. My goal is to help women feel beautiful and confident in what they wear. I handpick the trendiest pieces and make sure the quality is amazing and affordable for everyone. I think what sets DVINE by Ana apart from other brands is that I go above and beyond to make sure my customers are satisfied. I don’t take any sale for granted no matter how small or big it is and I make sure my customers know that. I love writing them a handwritten note to express my gratitude. That is something that will never change. 

What were you like growing up?
Growing up I was a happy and studious kid, but I was also shy at times. I enjoyed dancing and making my friends and family laugh. I grew up living in an apartment building and I remember becoming good friends with other girls my age who lived there too. We loved playing with Barbie’s, video games, and hide and seek or tag outside. I also liked school and always kept my grades up all throughout middle school and high school. My favorite subject was math and it was the class I would look forward to the most. As I got older, I grew a passion for fashion and makeup. I learned that those two things really helped me express myself. 

Pricing:

• $10 – $60

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.dvinebyana.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dvinebyana/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dvinebyana

Image Credits
Alexia Fernandez
Daisy Curiel
Nidia Vidal
Ana Chean