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

Hi Nellys, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I was working a full time job that didn’t align with my passions or interest and I felt like I was being stifled. My creativity was non existent, I didn’t have an outlet to help me decompress or just do something fun and different. I got the idea to try my hand at making accessories because I enjoy wearing them, and figured it was pretty low stakes. Once I did, I realized I had found the creative outlet I was looking for and from there I just decided to keep going at it and see what my little idea could become!

What should our readers know about your business?
I’ve always loved supporting small business. The problem was, that I never saw a lot of business owners who looked like me, who came from similar backgrounds as me, and who’s stories and culture I could relate to. When I started to think about my own business I though, “why not me?” Why can’t I be that business owner that I’ve been looking for but that is hard to find? I can be the Latina woman who starts her own business, strives to represent those not often portrayed in mainstream media, and I can be someone that other people like me can relate to. Nothing about business ownership is easy, but I’m thankful for all the lessons I’ve learned along the way because they’ve taught me a lot, made me a better person and business owner, and have helped me grow! A big lesson I’ve learned is that even when you think you’re alone, you’re not. There are other business owners out there going through some of the same things you are, and building community is so important so that you can find these people and connect with them. Finding people who will support and encourage you and even let you vent when needed is so important in business ownership. I’m thankful that I have met some people like that on this journey, and that I’m able to call them my friends.

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.
There is so much to see and do in Washington! I would definitely take them for a hike to see all the natural beauty this state has. I enjoy nature, but I’m not an avid hiker so I would probably take them on an easy trek so we wouldn’t be totally out of breath haha! I’d probably choose my favorite spot in my hometown of Lacey, WA which is the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge. Then, I’d plan a wine tasting day in Woodinville, and we would enjoy all the sips and bites that area has to offer. I’d definitely schedule some time to go to Fremont in Seattle. It’s a walkable little area with lots of fun small shops and restaurants. Afterward, we’d go to my favorite Mexican spot (Agua Verde Café) in the U-District area of Seattle. Lastly, if this friend loves plants like I do, I would take them to the Volunteer Park Conservatory where we could walk around and look at all of the beautiful plants!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate this to my husband, Sam. This business was not his idea or his dream. He didn’t ask for it to become such an large part of our lives, but he works tirelessly alongside me to help me make my dream come true. Without his support and encouragement, neither my business or I would be where we are today.

Website: Cocoalovesgrey.com

Instagram: @cocoalovesgrey

Image Credits
Cast + Forge Photography

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