Today we’d like to introduce you to Gracie Lee Armendariz.
Hi, Gracie Lee; having you on the platform is an honor. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
2019, upon arriving in San Antonio, I aimed to introduce Mexican piñatas to decorate restaurants and patios for celebratory purposes. Lacking knowledge initially, I relied solely on my imagination to envision a unique piñata concept that would captivate buyers. Conversations with my American clientele at my retail job revealed the absence of high-end artisanal piñatas in San Antonio, taking me a four-year market study. This research led me to a piñata town in Mexico, where I connected with skilled artisans. The most crucial part is that Acolman, Mexico State, made the first piñata in the history of Mexico, giving a Piñata Store this Unique concept Piñata Store was born, bringing the most authentic Mexican piñatas from Acolman to Texas, offering a distinctive collection of handmade paper and cardboard piñatas.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, has it been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No, it wasn’t a smooth road. The stress stemmed from the fact that the piñatas had to travel a long distance from a distant town, facing uncertainties due to the prevalence of highway robberies targeting merchandise trucks. Those were days filled with anxiety, unsure if my savings would pay off. Despite being a reputable company, there’s no guarantee for the safety of the piñatas during border crossings. Unfortunately, I didn’t receive the entire shipment, but fortunately, about 80% of the truck arrived intact. One of the sacrifices that must be made is trust and risk.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might need to become more familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
What do you do for a living? I do a little of everything. I am passionate and curious, which led me to study different areas during my 37 years. I am a professional doctor in Mexico. Here in San Antonio, I want to explore my other skills more. Since I was a child, I grew up and worked very closely with my mother, where I learned many things, such as organizing and planning events, being a Runway Coach, being a model, hosting television and radio, etc. At the Piñata Store, our specialization lies in creating unique event experiences. Specifically, we focus on the joyous and therapeutic aspects of breaking a piñata, fostering an atmosphere that allows individuals to embrace their inner child while enjoying both the fun and liberating moments.
What are you known for?
For innovative, creative, and passionate Mexican culture
What are you most proud of?
About my culture and traditions, that’s why, with all my heart, I want to take Mexican culture to the highest possible level and allow San Antonio and the world to have in their hands one of these piñatas that come from the very roots, the originals.
What sets you apart from others?
The techniques and designs of our piñatas are unique, and the special fillings, such as.
- Piñata with traditional Mexican candy stuffing.
- The piñata of abundance stuffing with bills and coins for the New Year to energetically close your old year and start the new 2024, attracting prosperity, clients, abundance, etc.
- The gender reveal pinata is beautiful; when you break it, it explodes the color of the baby’s sex.
- The sugar rush piñata for sweet lovers is filled with personalized candies and cookies.
- To your needs, we customize The Botox piñata with gifts such as lip fillers, botox, facials, etc.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My family supports me in everything; someone extraordinary is my husband, Marco Gomez, who, without agreeing with the idea of a piñata store initially, has helped me unconditionally. During my trip to Mexico in search of talent, always being there to encourage me when things did not go as expected, and in the economic part since it is difficult for any new and entrepreneurial business to start. Other key people are my mother, Edna G. Ramirez, brother Eduardo Armendariz Jr., and in-laws Sandra and Marco. They are fundamental pieces since they help me with the warehouse and customs procedures when needed; without the support and work of each one, none of this would have been happening, and that is why, on this particular day that is Thanksgiving, I am very thankful for them and all the support provided.
Pricing:
- 50
- 900
Contact Info:
- Website: www.pinatastore.shop
- Instagram: @pinatastore.shop
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Pinatastore.shop/
- TikTok: @pinatastore.shop
