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

Hi Karina, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
Some may see fashion, beauty, and content creation as superficial, but to me, they are powerful ways to celebrate and share the world’s beauty. By way of content creation and my small e-commerce clothing brand, PETUNIA, I am able to share what I find beautiful with others. On my YouTube channel, @KarinaCastro, I share weekly videos exploring beauty, fashion, lifestyle, and travel, offering inspiration and practical insights to my audience. At PETUNIA, we create dresses designed to make our customers feel beautiful and effortlessly elegant. Hearing that my content was helpful to a viewer or that a customer loves their PETUNIA dress, makes it all worthwhile.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I began my professional career as a Registered Nurse, and while I valued many aspects of the profession, I felt a consistent pull toward more creative work. One of the decisions I am most proud of is choosing to leave a stable career and explore a path aligned with my passions. After stepping away from nursing, I launched my e-commerce clothing brand, PETUNIA, and began sharing my life and travels on YouTube (@KarinaCastro). The journey has been challenging at times, but it has been deeply rewarding and has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There are so many amazing things to do in LA. I would start by grabbing a breakfast burrito and making your way to the beach (Malibu). Then I would enjoy the sunshine on the sand and for lunch head to IN-N-OUT or Langer’s Deli. After, I would recommend a sweet treat at Salt and Straw (ice cream) in Arts District or a boba tea. For a delicious & interactive dinner I would recommend, Korean BBQ (Quarters) in Koreatown or The Boiling Crab.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate this shoutout to the most important supporters in my life: my parents and my boyfriend. It is the unconditional love my mom and dad have always given me that has allowed me to persevere through life’s ups and downs. My boyfriend’s unwavering love and encouragement inspire me to stay true to myself and continue following my heart.

Website: https://www.petunia.store

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itskarinacastro

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/karinacastro

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.