Meet Juliana Correa | Store Owner

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

Hi Juliana, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?My thought process behind starting my own business is in large part influenced by my family’s entrepreneurial background and the entrepreneurial spirit of my hometown, Medellin, Colombia. As far back as I can remember, my mom encouraged my brother and me to improve things that we complained about by presenting a better version in a business plan format.

Together, we devised business plans for various ideas, ranging from devices to help humans understand dogs to trays for holding books while reading in the bathtub. Admittedly, some of our ideas lacked originality and others would make a Burning Man science fair seem mundane. However, this exercise instilled in us the knowledge that we had the power to be catalysts for change. Instead of passively hoping for something to exist, we learned that we could take action and build it into existence.

Around 12 years ago, I ventured into the world of entrepreneurship by opening a swimwear and lingerie store in Los Angeles. It was an incredible and at times exhausting experience. However, in 2016, I made the difficult decision to close the store and focus on my newborn daughter, Eva. At that time, I was certain that I would never engage in retail again.

In late 2022, I noticed a vacant retail space on my favorite street in LA, Ventura Place. This, along with numerous other factors such as my daughters’ ages (Eva was turning 6 and her sister Maia was turning 3), my longing for Colombia, and some challenges with my small family business, compelled me to create something new. Although I was unsure about the exact nature of this new venture, I knew it had to encompass the concept of a welcoming “third space” for women and children, with Colombia playing a vital role.

Initially, I confided in a few close friends, including Shadia, the owner and designer of Salua Lingerie and Loungewear. Countless conversations with her led to a pivotal piece of advice: “Juli,” she said, “you need a place to release your creativity, and the universe is providing it. Take it!” She ignited my excitement, and I realized that even if the specific space on Ventura Place didn’t work out, I would still pursue this new project. Luckily, the space did work out and I opened “EVAMAIA: A Love Letter from Colombia” in December 2022.

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.
EVAMAIA is a peaceful and joyful space where I showcase brands and items that highlight the best aspects of my country. I take pride in the fact that I have created a business that adds value to both my community here in LA and several communities of artists and artisans of Colombia. Opening EVAMAIA was not without its challenges, but the excitement and passion for creating something meaningful outweighs any difficulties I continue to face. I’ve learned an essential lesson throughout my journey – that I cannot be everything to everyone, and that is perfectly okay. Once I embraced this realization, it brought a shift in perspective from our customers. EVAMAIA might not cater to everyone’s needs, but that’s precisely what allows it to maintain its uniqueness and appeal to those who resonate with its values and offerings.
EVAMAIA is a love letter from Colombia to the world, specifically to Studio City. It is also my own love letter to this gem of a country. The store provides a platform for consumers to invest in products that directly benefit artisans, women, and children, thus aligning shopping with their values. I hope families slow down and experience shopping as a therapeutic experience, where they can sip coffee, relax with their kids, and fully immerse themselves in the process.

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?

I love this question!

LA’s unique charm lies in its vastness and distinct neighborhoods, each with its own personality.

To begin the adventure, I’d take my friend to Zinque in West Hollywood. It offers a perfect blend of kid-friendly ambiance and grown-up sophistication. We can relax in the gorgeous outdoor area and even catch a World Cup game on their large TV. For a fun family outing, we’d head across the street to the West Hollywood Library or the nearby park for the little ones to play and burn off some energy.

Sundays are made for exploring in LA. Early mornings would see us at the Studio City Farmer’s Market, where we can indulge in fresh produce, flowers, and treats while the kids play in the bounce houses. But the real excitement for the grown-ups lies at Smorgasburg LA in DTLA, a foodie’s paradise with various vendors offering prepared food – all with KCRW DJs and craft beer stands.

For another family-friendly experience, we’d venture to Golden Road Brewery on the East Side. While the kids enjoy the outdoor play area, the rest of us can savor their delicious food and beer. A peaceful walk or bike ride along the river, starting at La Colombe coffee nearby would provide a refreshing break.

Close to my home and the store, we have some of the best sushi in town and so many unique and delicious spots like Laurel Tavern, Mirabelle Bar, Plants and Coffee, Tortoni Caffe and Petit Trois. The Sportsman’s Lodge in Studio City has a wide range of excellent restaurants, including Sugarfish for sushi, Roberta’s for pizza, and HiHo for burgers, all in a safe area for kids to run around and explore.

As an avid book lover, I’d be thrilled to take my friend to Annabelle’s Book Club on Ventura Ave. This charming bookstore, run by a mother-daughter team, houses an impressive collection of books for kids, teens, and classics that I’m eager to explore myself.

Of course, no LA trip is complete without some iconic experiences like a good hike, museum visits, jazz at the Lacma, music at the Hollywood Bowl, and the Griffith Observatory. Strolling through Santa Monica, Venice, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Melrose Place, and West Hollywood would be a must for their quintessential LA vibe. Yet, to truly discover LA’s hidden treasures, we’d explore neighborhoods like Koreatown, Thai Town, DTLA, the Valley, Eagle Rock, Pasadena, and Highland Park.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

I attribute my current success to a combination of my past experiences and the support of my family. My childhood in Colombia, the passing of my father at an early age, and the various ups and downs of life, have all contributed to shaping the person I am today. These experiences have instilled in me a certain comfort with discomfort and change, which are integral traits for being an entrepreneur. While some of these life events may have seemed like hindrances at times, they have actually given me a unique advantage in the entrepreneurial world.

However, I also recognize that my success wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging the role of my family. My husband has been an incredible support system. He’s not only a loving partner but also an active participant in the upbringing of our two daughters. His involvement in our family life has allowed me the freedom to pursue my entrepreneurial endeavors with confidence.

Moreover, my daughters have been a driving force in pushing me to become the best version of myself. Being a mother has taught me valuable lessons in time management, prioritization, and empathy. Knowing that my actions directly influence and impact their lives has motivated me to strive for excellence in both personal and professional aspects.

Website: www.evamaia.com

Instagram: @shopevamaia

Facebook: @shopevamaia

Yelp: EvaMaia

Youtube: @shopevamaia