WESST Client Profiles

Gloria Rodriguez comes from a family of entrepreneurs. Her father was a panadero, a baker of Mexican pan dulce, for 50 years. Her mother a caterer of Mexican delicacies, and her brother and sister-in-law continue the bakery legacy, running a tortilla factory. 

After a successful career in bilingual education, Gloria transitioned to pursuing her passion for artesania. She learned about WESST through a family friend and fellow WESST client, Paul Gallegos, owner of Cutbow Coffee. He shared how instrumental WESST had been in launching his successful business, and she was inspired to reach out.  She initially began working with our Albuquerque office to establish her LLC back in 2021. Gloria continued her consultations with our Rio Rancho team in April 2024 for support in opening her new business. 

Like many entrepreneurs, Gloria faced legal and compliance issues, securing an optimal location, branding and marketing needs, and ensuring she stood out amongst competition. “These are some of the obstacles I have faced, “says Gloria. “And that I have been able to address after turning to WESST for support.” 

“Through ongoing consultations, Sara and I have developed a comprehensive plan with clear, targeted goals aimed at increasing sales. She understands the community where my business resides, and her insights make our plan not only strategic but deeply relevant to my local market.” 

Mi Casita Home Decor opened its doors in September 2024 in beautiful Corrales. The shop reflects Mexico’s cultural wealth and promotes crafts and home goods that preserve ancestral knowledge passed down through generations.