Meet Giovanna Villalpando | A proud Mexican immigrant and female business owner

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

Hi Giovanna, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born in Tacoaleche, Zacatecas, a small town in Mexico. My family immigrated to Texas in 1999, seeking better opportunities for us. Growing up in the U.S. allowed me to experience a blend of cultures, but despite being in a new environment, my family made sure we never lost touch with our heritage. The values and traditions from my hometown have always been a strong influence in my life.

Being raised in Texas, I had the privilege of experiencing both the Mexican and American cultures. This unique upbringing taught me to embrace diversity, adapt to different environments, and appreciate the importance of community. It also deepened my sense of pride in my Mexican roots. Even now, as a minority small business owner, I’m able to show the Fort Worth community my love and pride for my culture. The values of family, hard work, and respect for tradition continue to guide me in everything I do, and they play a significant role in shaping who I am today.

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?
My business, located in Ridgmar Mall, is the first of its kind in Fort Worth, offering a unique blend of cultural pride and fun. As a true reflection of my passion for my culture, I wanted to create a space that truly represents who I am, with every item in the store. From one-of-a-kind handcrafted pieces to our selection of candy, each item tells a story and celebrates the richness of my culture. I’m particularly proud of how our business has played a role in the transformation of Ridgmar Mall, a space that, like many malls in America, has faced decline. But through the rise of Hispanic-owned businesses, we’re witnessing a revival, and I’m honored to be a part of that change. The community’s support has been incredible, and it’s exciting to see how our presence is helping bring life back to this space.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth every challenge. As a woman and immigrant, starting a business came with its own set of obstacles—financial struggles, navigating the business landscape, and balancing everything. However, I couldn’t have done it without the unwavering support of my parents and my husband. Their encouragement and belief in me have been the foundation of my journey. But beyond that, the power of community support has been absolutely essential. The connections I’ve built with customers and other local businesses have played a huge role in helping my business grow.The way the community has rallied around us online and offline has been overwhelming in the best possible way, and it’s been a huge factor in our success.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that success isn’t just about the product—it’s about building relationships and being visible in the community. It’s about being authentic and letting people know who you are. The power of social media has shown me that reaching people where they are and creating a sense of community can make all the difference.

What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that it’s not just a business, but a celebration of culture, resilience, and connection. My journey is one of overcoming challenges, learning from every experience, and embracing the power of community and digital platforms to share our message. I hope my story inspires others to embrace their roots, connect with others, and use the tools available to them—like social media—to make their voices heard and grow.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d definitely highlight some of my favorite local spots, starting with Birrieria Chalio Mexican Restaurant. Their amazing flavors, delicious food, and excellent service always make it a top choice for me. Their birria is so underrated and deserves recognition.

Also, Cultura Markets stands out as a very inclusive market that supports various small businesses. The people are fantastic, the shopping is always fun, and they set up in different locations that showcase the best of Fort Worth. It’s a wonderful place to connect with the community and find unique treasures. We love attending and participating as vendors with Cultura Markets.

Of course, Casa Rita Margaritas is a must-stop for anyone craving fun and unique margaritas. With their creative drinks and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy some local flavor! Their drinks are to-go so you can take the party anywhere.

Lastly, La Catrina Mexican Shop is a must-visit for unique gifts and fun shopping. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience, offering a vibrant selection that perfectly captures the spirit of Mexican culture.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my parents and my husband. This business would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my parents, who have always believed in me and helped me every step of the way. Their hard work, sacrifice, and dedication to our family set the foundation for everything I’ve been able to achieve. My husband also deserves a huge thank you—his encouragement, patience, and partnership have been invaluable. Together, they’ve been my biggest cheerleaders, and I’m deeply grateful for their love and constant support.

Website: https://www.multicosaslacatrina.com

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/multicosasbodega/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaCatrinaMexicanShop

Other: tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lacatrina_mxshop

Image Credits
Kimikos Canvas Photography