Today we’d like to introduce you to Catherine Contreras-Sanchez
Hi Catherine, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Fresh Masa is more than just a play dough and sensory shop—it’s a celebration of culture, community, and inclusivity. Founded by Cat Contreras-Sanchez, an autism mom and entrepreneur, alongside her mother, Maria Contreras-Bauml, a retired special education educator, Fresh Masa was born from a shared passion for creating something meaningful.
Our journey began with a simple yet profound goal: to craft products that encourage skill-building for children of all abilities, while honoring the rich Latino and South Texas culture that we hold dear. As an autism mom, I understood the importance of sensory play in my child’s development. My mother, with her years of experience in special education, knew firsthand the impact of engaging, educational tools on a child’s growth.
Together, we combined our knowledge and love for our culture to create Fresh Masa. Each of our products is thoughtfully designed to foster creativity, motor skills, and sensory exploration. But beyond that, they tell a story—our story—of a family dedicated to uplifting and empowering children, all while celebrating the vibrant traditions and heritage that make us who we are.
At Fresh Masa, we believe in the power of play, the importance of inclusivity, and the beauty of our Latino roots. We invite you to join us on this journey, where every product is a step towards a brighter, more colorful future for all children.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road to building Fresh Masa has been anything but smooth, but every bump along the way has shaped us into who we are today. As with any small business, we’ve faced our fair share of challenges, from navigating the complexities of starting a business to balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with family life.
One of the biggest hurdles was finding the right balance between creating products that are both culturally meaningful and universally accessible. We wanted Fresh Masa to reflect our Latino and South Texas heritage while also being inclusive for children of all abilities. Achieving this balance required a lot of trial and error, and there were times when it felt like we were walking a tightrope.
As a mom of five with other full-time businesses, there were also personal challenges. Balancing the demands of caring for my children with the responsibilities of running a business was, and continues to be, a delicate dance. There were days when it felt overwhelming, but my mother and I leaned on each other and our shared vision for Fresh Masa to keep moving forward.
Another struggle was the learning curve that comes with entering the world of entrepreneurship. From sourcing materials to managing finances, there was a lot to learn—and fast. We had to navigate these challenges with limited resources, often relying on our own determination and the support of our community.
Despite these struggles, every challenge has brought with it a lesson. We’ve learned to adapt, to persevere, and most importantly, to stay true to our mission. The road may not have been smooth, but it’s led us to a place where we can make a positive impact, and for that, we’re incredibly grateful.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At Fresh Masa, we specialize in creating play dough and sensory kits that celebrate Latino culture while fostering skill-building for children of all abilities. Our products are designed to engage kids in creative, hands-on play that stimulates their senses and helps them develop fine motor skills, cognitive abilities, and social-emotional growth.
What sets us apart is our deep commitment to inclusivity and cultural celebration. As an autism mom and a retired special education educator, my mother and I understand the unique needs of children with different abilities. We are passionate about creating products that are not only fun and educational but also accessible to everyone. Our kits are thoughtfully designed to be engaging for all children, regardless of their developmental stage or abilities.
We are most proud of the way our products resonate with families who share our values. Hearing from parents and educators who have seen the positive impact of our kits on their children’s development is incredibly rewarding. We take great pride in knowing that our work is making a difference, not just in providing quality educational tools, but in promoting a love for our rich Latino heritage.
Another aspect that sets Fresh Masa apart is our emphasis on cultural storytelling. Each of our products reflects a piece of our Latino and South Texas roots, whether it’s through the vibrant colors, the themes we explore, or the traditional elements we incorporate. We believe that play can be a powerful way to connect children with their heritage, and we are dedicated to bringing our culture to life through our products.
Ultimately, what we do at Fresh Masa is more than just business; it’s a labor of love. We’re passionate about creating something meaningful that empowers children, supports families, and celebrates our community. That passion drives us every day, and it’s what we hope shines through in everything we create.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Finding a mentor and building a strong network are crucial steps in growing a business, and I’ve learned a few key things along the way. One of the most important pieces of advice I can offer is to be proactive and intentional in your networking efforts. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you—go out and seek them.
Social media has been an invaluable tool for us at Fresh Masa. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook have allowed us to connect with other entrepreneurs, educators, and families who share our passion for inclusivity and cultural celebration. Engaging with our audience online, sharing our story, and being active in relevant communities has helped us build meaningful relationships that have been essential to our growth.
In addition to social media, in-store events have played a significant role in our networking strategy. Hosting or participating in local events gives us the opportunity to meet our customers face-to-face, learn from their experiences, and connect with other businesses and community members. These in-person interactions are invaluable, as they help us build trust, foster collaboration, and create a strong sense of community around Fresh Masa.
When it comes to finding a mentor, I recommend reaching out to people whose work you admire. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or guidance—most people are more than willing to share their knowledge and experiences. Look for mentors who not only have the expertise you need but who also align with your values and vision. A good mentor should challenge you, inspire you, and help you grow both personally and professionally.
Lastly, remember that networking isn’t just about what others can do for you; it’s also about what you can offer. Be generous with your time, knowledge, and support. Building a strong network is a two-way street, and the more you invest in others, the more you’ll get in return.
For us, the combination of social media, in-store events, and a willingness to both seek and offer support has been key to growing our network and finding mentors who have guided us along the way.
Pricing:
- Small Kits $12.00
- Medium Sized Kits $20.00
- Large Kits $24-$30
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shopfreshmasa.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/fresh.masa.satx
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088381237953
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@fresh.masa.satx
