Meet Carla Diaz Pevida | Founder of a colorful concept store

We had the good fortune of connecting with Carla Diaz Pevida and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi carla, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I believe my success comes from offering myself completely—with all my light and shadow—and in doing so, giving my store a personality of its own. It’s a place that shines when I shine, that shifts with my moods. Sometimes, it even gathers dust in the corners for weeks, because I don’t have the strength to face something as simple as cleaning.
But then the magic happens. I return smiling, full of energy, ready to create new corners where people can feel seen, valued, and inspired.

My space is me. I’m not a copy of anyone else. I offer unique and special products—sometimes even strange. The downside? Very few people might want to buy a pink candle holder shaped like a magician. But the upside? Whoever does will fall in love with it. And they’ll feel special, because they’ve found something truly one of a kind.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Life made things easier for me—I started out with financial help from my family, something many other women entrepreneurs don’t have. For a long time, I felt guilty about that, until I realized it’s not about what you’re given, but what you do with it.

And I made this place grow. What began as a small spark, full of doors waiting to be opened, became something real. I chose the right ones, and along the way, I met incredible artists who helped me turn what may have started as a childish whim into a grown-up store—full of contrast, personality, support for other brands, and a space where people can find just the right products and services.

I also made mistakes. Like not opening the store at the scheduled times, not making it visible enough from the outside, not knowing how to manage the finances using software, making tax errors that cost me a lot of money. But I’ve changed these things, just as I’ve grown as a woman. Like a lost girl slowly learning what it really means to run a business.

Opening the store when I’m supposed to. And if I can’t face being a social human being on a given day, asking a friend for help. Improving the signage so people walking by say, wow, I want to go in. Understanding how VAT and taxes work in our country, so the store can sustain itself without unnecessary money leaks.

Small and big things I’m proud of—because I managed to take them out of my head and turn them into action. Actions that, little by little, are making both me and this place better.

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.
My Store & Hidden Gems

I’d obviously start the trip at my store, which is right next to one of the most beautiful, yet little-known, houses designed by Gaudí—Casa Vicens, a stunning green house. From there, I’d wander through the streets and plazas of the Gràcia neighborhood, always looking up to make sure I don’t miss the beauty of its architecture. On my way, I’d stop for an avocado toast at Sabio Infante, a café with vintage colors and attractions that make it feel super special. Passing through Plaça del Sol, I’d sit on the ground like the locals, enjoy the sun, listen to live music, and snap a photo of the green building with pink details—the most beautiful one in all of Barcelona.

Right next to the square is the experimental art gallery Te Quiero Mucho, where I’d definitely pop in to get some inspiration. After that, I’d head to Ceramicaria to paint mugs and have a fun time, especially if I’m with my daughter or friends.

For lunch, I’d go to Pepa Tomate, where they serve original Catalan dishes, before heading up to Parc Güell to spend the afternoon discovering the many secrets of Gaudí’s art.

In the evening, I’d enjoy dinner at La Brillantina Bar, a beautiful tropical spot with fusion food, and I’d definitely have the banana gnocchi.

To wrap up the night, I’d head to Cueva de Lobos to enjoy live music by candlelight, a cozy and essential place for me. And then, for the sweetest end to the day, I’d stop by Anita Gelato to try all the flavors before settling on my favorite and enjoying the best gelato in town!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The most beautiful thing the store has given me isn’t success or money—it’s the incredible, creative people who’ve appeared along the way. Without their support, I would’ve given up years ago.

Jorge, my dear friend, always there with his unconditional help—changing a lightbulb, making a salad, or simply making me smile with his positive energy.
Pamela, who listens without judgment and lifts me up every time I’m on the verge of falling apart.
My daughter Zoe, who turns my afternoons into a whirlwind of emotions—creativity mixed with boredom, frustration, laughter, and always, always love.
And my mother Marta, who shows up with her eternal smile and warm heart, helping me sell when I’m too tired, too busy, or too overwhelmed.

And to all the friends—you know who you are—who support my choices and encourage me to keep creating my own kind of art, just like they do.

Just for having met them, opening Leopardi has been worth it.

Website: https://leopardo-leopardi-conceptstore.com/

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

Image Credits
@mariafernanda