Today we’d like to introduce you to Briana Madera.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I started my business during my last year of college. I remember walking into a store, seeing a crochet piece and I instantly thought to myself “I can definitely create something like this.” From then on, I would practice crocheting during my 30 minute breaks at work. I would craft bags and water bottle holders which ended up being the starting pieces that people were interested in the most. I would walk into work with my creations and be complimented by my coworkers. Some would even commission me for custom pieces which further ignited inspiration. They encouraged me to start taking it seriously and for that I am so thankful. After graduating college, I set a goal to put myself out there for any and all to see. I began doing brand photoshoots that aided in promoting my presence at various markets.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely, NOT. No journey is smooth and mine is definitely not the exception to this. After graduating, I had this picture perfect idea of jumping into law school and utilizing my business to fund my lifestyle while in school. I had a lot of personal “life be lifing” happenstances along the way that forced me to pivot. Being that my business is self funded, I often found it difficult to comp my materials and vendor fees whilst juggling car insurance, car note, rent, and other expenses pertaining to life. I managed to make it through and around by running random yet fulfilling side missions on top of woking a main mission to make the dream happen.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am an educator! I love working with kids and seeing their lightbulbs go off when learning a new concept. Being a figure my students can rely on not just as their teacher, but in life has been rewarding. Everyone is looking to connect especially at a young age, so being able to be someone they can confide in is fulfilling. They are so bright! I am proud of my ability to balance work, being a creative, and wearing many hats in my life. It hasn’t always been easy nor is it easy now, but I am grateful for the challenges presented to me. I also just so happen to be naturally good at everything. I’ve got that Midas touch baby, everything I touch turns to gold. I am unable to be boxed in. I am a multi-hyphenate individual that only hopes to continue acquiring more skills to display.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
My ability to pivot and adapt to sudden changes is a quality that contributes to my success. I remember getting into a car accident a few years ago and though I wasn’t feeling well I poured into my creative feat nonetheless. I made a TikTok that went viral and that opened up my network to others who are also respected in their careers/endeavors. That was a lesson to me that even when faced with adversity a pivot in mindset can change your trajectory.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diosaluna.la/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@diosalunala?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Image Credits
Models and Their Igs:
Blue Balaclava: Fernando Payan (@fernsymbol)
Grey Balaclava: Val Kammeron (@valkammeron)
Dark Green Balaclava: Pamela Bravo (@pamela_bravo333)
(me lol) Neon Green Balaclava: Briana Madera (@brijocelyn)
Photographer: Justin Ward (@jward.18mm)
