Meet Desiree Contreras

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

Hi Desiree, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I had no thought process when I started my business. The truth is I got fired from my job, and I had no choice but to hustle. I was so distraught about getting fired that I decided to work for myself. I never wanted to get fired by anyone ever again. After I received my last paycheck, I had $14 left to my name. I had to make some bold and quick moves to survive.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have a degree in graphic design, which landed me a job with West Coast Choppers, working under Jesse James. I designed for him for over three years, and during that time, I started using my graphic design skills to explore embroidery. After leaving West Coast Choppers, I got a job where I had to learn embroidery. It was tough—I had minimal training, and after just a few weeks, I was left to figure things out on my own. I messed up a lot of projects and honestly didn’t like embroidery at first.

That all changed when I decided to create a small clothing line. At my first event, I made $1,400, and that success motivated me to take embroidery seriously. I dove in, learning everything I could to improve my skills and become a professional.

There was a time when I hit rock bottom—I lost my job, and after paying my bills, I had only $14 to my name. Desperate to make ends meet, I took on any embroidery job I could find, working tirelessly for over 100 days straight with just one machine. Eventually, my hard work paid off when I landed an account with Frito-Lay, which helped me open my own shop in my hometown.

What sets my embroidery apart is my drive to push boundaries and create things that haven’t been done before. I mix different media and pay close attention to detail, producing unique, show-stopping pieces. My work has caught the eye of influencers and celebrities like Sandoner, Megan Thee Stallion, and Machine Gun Kelly who I have had the opportunity to work with.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned through it all is to never give up. Just when you feel like you can’t keep going, that’s when the breakthrough comes. Luck always favors the hardworking.

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.
Los Angeles is brimming with diverse experiences that cater to all tastes. Here’s how I’d showcase the city’s vibrant offerings to a visiting friend:

Day 1: Local Flavors and Nightlife

Afternoon: Kick off with a visit to Bar Flores in Echo Park. This charming spot offers delectable tacos and renowned mezcal margaritas. Its cozy ambiance provides an authentic glimpse into LA’s local scene.

Evening: Elevate the night with dinner at Barton G. The Restaurant in West Hollywood. Known for its extravagant presentations and exquisite dishes, it’s a dining experience that tantalizes all the senses.

Night: Explore West Hollywood’s vibrant nightlife by visiting iconic clubs like Rocco’s and The Abbey. Both venues offer energetic atmospheres and are staples in LA’s club scene.

There are so many other things to do in LA but here are just a few of my favorite spots. And of course, a trip to Disneyland!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
This is dedicated to my amazing parents Richard and Mary Contreras. They always told me to dream big and do my best at whatever I decided to become in life.

Instagram: choppedupcherriesembroidery

Other: tiktok:choppedupcherries_