We had the good fortune of connecting with Ana Luiza de Sousa and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ana Luiza, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I am originally from Brazil. I moved to the United States at the age of 2, and lived in Boston until the age of 14. At that age, I returned to Brazil, where I resided for another 10 years, until 2017. I then returned to the United States, back to Boston. I lived there for two years until I realized the West Coast was probably better weather and better business opportunities in my line of work. Being from Brazil and daughter to two very hard working parents, I learned from early on the meaning of being flexible, putting in the work and resiliency. I bring these characteristics to my business, where customer experience takes precedence and fulfilling each of their needs and wants comes in close second.

My jewelry business was born from a time of extreme hardship for myself and my family, and I learned to quickly pivot and be resourceful because of where I came from and my upbringing. Having multicultural influence has taught me numerous points of views and to truly value the journey and how far I’ve come. I’m also much more appreciative and grateful for all the opportunities that I’ve been presented in my business and my life!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Orla California is a San Diego-based jewelry company that brings a sunny southern Californian lifestyle paired with Brazilian flair. It started in a time of extreme financial hardship, where I realized I needed a new income stream. All that kept me going at the time was sunshine and salty air, and I wanted to share that feeling with everyone and anyone who was willing to pay attention!

Orla California is a jewelry business based on the principles of helping a developing country, by selling jewelry manufactured and hand-made by artisans in Brazil. Sterling silver and 18k gold filled pieces in unique designs bring summer on your skin to serve as a reminder that it’s always summer somewhere in the world! Timeless pieces that won’t tarnish, they’ll withstand sweat, sun and water to accompany you in every summer activity.

It wasn’t an easy process. I’m still learning as I go. Challenges are inevitable in a business, and I welcome them and do my best to overcome them and grow! I’m not afraid to ask for help, nor do I mind sharing my experiences, which is also now a theme to a parallel project of mine. I’m also starting a podcast to share a little of my own personal development journey, paired with business discoveries and growth as I go through them, because no one seems to share the journey, they just teach you when they’ve already reached “success”.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Palmy’s in PB is my favorite coffee shop! It’s my go-to for business meetings and hangouts. Just LOVE the vibe! My favorite place in town is my own Orla California office/showroom – it reminds me constantly of how far I’ve come!
Third is Windandsea beach! My favorite views!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Firstly, I’d like to shoutout my husband, JP, who has been my solid rock and anchor through this entire process. I’d also like to shoutout all the badass women I’ve met along the way! I’ve made incredible friends since starting my business who have taught me and supported me every step of the way!

Website: orlacalifornia.com

Instagram: instagram.com/orla.california

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