Meet Ericka Rocha | Business Owner&Mother

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ericka Rocha and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ericka, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
We are Coachella Valley natives- born and raised desert rats. Growing up with my sister, in Desert Hot Springs, CA (once rated one of the most dangerous cities in US Empire) has really molded who we are and the business model we’ve created today. We grew up in a violent household, like many here our father became victim to the drug epidemic which led to his incarceration and future deportation. Our mother raised us mainly alone, relying on family and community aid while working a corporate cornerstone pharmacy 9-5, that left her exploited and depleted. From a young age we understood the duality of this world. That LOVE does in fact have a price… The Valley is home to many diverse communities. A vacation destination and ideal retirement place is also where farm workers and low-income minorities face daily hardships. It’s quite dystopian actually, we have water for golf courses but the local residents of Thermal struggle to get access to clean water. We grew up on second hand clothing, from hand-me-downs to thrift stores we relied on others for our day to day wardrobe. We had a K-Mart that we loved which eventually shut down during the pandemic, even our local thrift didn’t make it. In the summer of 2023, we decided to join our local street vendors and set up a thrift pop-up. Our intention is to curate stylish, affordable, accessible, inclusive and sustainable clothing. Luckily enough, we source 90% of our clothing from the Bins (a clearance center in DHS where a local chain thrift disposes of overflow goods before ending up in landfills) and we find some good pieces! Our surrounding cities “got moneysss” and often donate items that could easily be repaired or have no flaws whatsoever. We scavage through piles of stuff to find the people’s closet. We also accept donations, which allows us to uphold mutual aid networks within our communities- especially our unhoused neighbors. We currently operate out of an abandoned building- very low-key primarily focusing on online bidding sales on Whatnot app (where we’ve built a lovely online community- to shop and talk shit with besties-sign up now bestie!) Anyways bestie, this is not for aesthetics- we cannot afford rent here in our own city. Many wealthy weirdos are hoarding vacant spots because we cannot meet their insane demands. Let’s be so for real- landlords take a piece of shit and add new wooden tile flooring then ask for double than the average income. We live here, we know the activity that happens down Palm and West-lower the damn lease agreement. So even now, as “established business owners” we face big challenges and it’s uncomfortable and scary but it’s the only way we’ll grow… so to anyone reading this give yourself some grace and let love lead the way.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
We like to think we’re a Thrift and MORE! Our business is multidimensional… from serving runway looks to hosting clothing/food drive for our unhoused neighbors we really do it all. We understand the interconnection between profit and life. At what cost is this cute designer bag, who created the clothing we wear, and why is fashion culprit in ecological collapse. Every day we tackle the challenges of overconsumption and prioritizing comfort over change. We hope that our small actions of love spark more small changes throughout our community.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We love a fun and relaxing getaway! First stop, Azure Palm Hot Springs Hotel and Spa in Desert Hot Springs- best mineral hot spring tubs and Himalayan salt room. While you’re there, you must visit the Cabot’s Pueblo museum, a historic house featuring Native American art and artifacts. Both are near an energy vortex! Close by are amazing hiking trails- even if just like being outdoors without an unwanted workout we recommend White Water Preserve, Tahquitz Canyon and Joshua Tree (just up the hill from DHS) In downtown Palm Springs, you can find the best nightlife from pubs to shopping- there’s something for everyone. On Thursday nights, the city hosts a Village Festival- where local vendors gather to offer their homemade goods. Down the street, is the Palm Springs Art museum- an awesome display of modern and native artwork that showcases the grand diversity of the Valley. After strolling passed the famous Marylin Monroe statue you can grab a bite to eat amongst the endless options of local restaurants (too many good options) A brunch favorite, (besides our lovely drag shows…you BETTA TIP!) is Wilma & Frieda’s Cafe, trust and get the homemade biscuits. Farm, a farm-to- table Provence restaurant is also a yummy favorite that offers vegan options.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
So many people in the community to shout out! Starting off with y’all! Thanks for holding space to uplift voices. Also, Buena Vida Life Coach! Such a great energy that motivates you gracefully and keeps it real. It’s hard finding genuine people who actually care and show up! Laura uses her platform to extend her success and knowledge to others- a true example that there’s always more to love…

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/m2lmoretolove?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Other: https://www.whatnot.com/user/m2lmoretolove?sender_id=7014876&sharing_channel=copyLink