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

Hi Roni, why did you pursue a creative career?
I started my brand in 2011. I started posting on Craigslist, Facebook and OfferUp trying my best to get orders. At the time I had an almost two year old with 2 jobs I couldn’t keep because I didn’t have a babysitter or a car. I had to think of a way to make some money for diapers, and clothes for my son. I applied for a $500 PayPal credit card and used it to buy supplies, such as fabric, alligator clips, paper, glue gun and sticks and paper bags. My idea was to make Disney themed hairbows and party decor such as party bags and centerpieces. I did not have a sewing machine so I hand stitched hairbows for 6 years. My goal was to make some samples, post pictures and hope for the best. It worked! I got weekly orders that helped me financially with my son and make it affordable to open an online Etsy store. I’ve always had that artistic drive, I’ve always loved to draw. I come from a family of artists, my uncles are comic book artists and my grandma she’s taught me everything I know. In 2019 I lost my job to COVID and decided to focus 100% on my small business. I took a risk and betted it all on myself. By this time I stopped doing Disney stuff and focused on horror themed merch. I haven’t worked another job since Covid. Extremely blessed to be able to do this full time. At one point in my life I couldn’t afford big toys for my son, I remember when he was 4 I bought him a $1 Avengers bouncing ball from the market. He lit up with so much joy! It was then when I knew how patient my son was, and it’s never gone unnoticed. Now I can buy him everything and anything he wants and the greatest part is he’s the sweetest boy about it. If it wasn’t for my son I would have never known what I’m truly capable of. My passion for my small business has always been to spread my art around the world. As of today we’ve reached so many states, even countries where people own my art. It’s so beautiful to see how far I’ve come and how far my products are being admired. My motto, be unique in your own way, stand out in any crowd and always follow your bliss! If I can do it, so can you. Never stop believing in yourself. Consistency is key!

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.
When I lost my job to Covid I focused on applying for events and hoping they’d book me. I was still new, my products were still very little designs. My set up was as not too professional. I was still learning the ropes. I saved all my money and paid for spots and different events that I got accepted to. My biggest event and such a dream come true was getting approved to vend at the la county fair. My uncle and his wife own CBM realty, they sponsored me with half of the down payment and I was able to book my spot. Best decision of my life. I started getting noticed by people and event planners. So I took a chance and applied to bigger cons. It was very overwhelming and I was so scared but I did it. As of today I vend at so many HUGE Horror Conventions. I’ve also been accepted to multiple out of state events that I have yet to try. It was never easy. I work my butt off to get to where I am today. I have definitely made a name for myself, and the best part my son is my biggest supporter and my biggest inspiration.

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.
The perfect day with my bestie consists of a nice new brunch spot. That’s our favorite thing to find on instagram little hidden gems. A beach day or spa day would be so perfect after along with some shopping and dinner. Me and my bestie share a love for horror and we’re obsessed with EMINEM. Our dream would be to see him in concert together.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Huge shoutout to my best friend Shani Boyes owner of Creepy Sweets. Because of her I’ve been able to step out of my comfort zone, I met her online a few years ago and it’s been the greatest friendship I’ve ever experienced. She’s a huge inspiration. We’re always giving eachother tips and tricks and always pushing eachother. Thank you for always being so great and supportive to me, my small business, and my family. We love you!!

Website: https://www.Roniveesboutique.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roniveesboutique_?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Other: TikTok

@roniveesboutique

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.