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

Hi Anele, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
First and foremost, I am a mom of three funny, smart, and beautiful girls. When I entered motherhood, I naturally took on the role of being a mommy. I wouldn’t change it for nothing in the world. That’s one of the greatest blessings from God. Becoming a mom I also entered into the “stay at home mom” (SAHM) role as well (it has been three years so far). You can imagine all the time we, SAHM’s, have being home with kids all day, everyday. You kind of lose yourself in the process. I no longer thought of myself since my kids came before me. I then lost track of life. What did I want to do as far as a career? How do I get back on my feet? What is my path God? God please can you give me a sign and help me find my path again? You ask, and you shall receive! I then stumbled upon countless videos of DIY’s which sparked my creative interest. I got to thinking, hmm I am pretty crafty and love to create. Also, being a stay at home mom for so long, you run out of things to do in the house. I found that getting in touch with my creative side, I now have projects to look forward to everyday and I enjoyed doing it. It was something new, you know? Not just the usual cook, clean, spend time with the kids, feed them, clean again, laundry, and so on. So I started Bubblywraps. I started making baby bows and headbands with just a needle and some thread. No sewing machine, yet. I was so excited. I now had my very own thing to call my own. I shipped out a handful of orders. I was doing great starting off. (I’m very thankful for all my family and friends who supported me while Bubblywraps was in effect). I started expressing to my spouse how sewing machines would make my projects turn around time quicker, and nicer quality. The fabric I wanted to work with is stretchy. Sewing machines have a stitch called a zig zag stitch that is specifically for stretchy fabrics. I wanted my bows and headbands to be neat and sewn nicely. Being that I was a beginner, with only a needle and thread, my hand sewing skills were definitely at beginner level. My dream came true when I tore the Christmas wrapping paper off to reveal a SEWING MACHINE! My spouse bought me one for Christmas which I’m thankful for him. Not too long after that I then transitioned into making baby accessories. Bubblywraps had a great run. However, I just wasn’t crazy about making only bows. I rebranded myself to Cositas by Anel’e. I now make handmade baby essentials such as car seat canopies, clothes, shoes, books, play mats, and so much more. I found my passion in that pathway and I give ALL the glory to the man above, God. Just being a mom, I LOVE creating for all the babies in the world.
God gave me the idea and I ran with it.

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 am self taught. I want people to know that I care about each and every order.. You’re not just a number to me but a blessing.
I’m proud of every little baby step whether it be a sale, pop up shop, people sharing Cositas on social media. I super proud that I was chosen for this interview, like what! Little ole me, Anel’e. Thank you!
Having your own business, I learned its very important to learn the business aspect of it first.
First starting out I just jumped right in; no floaties. I’ve applied myself more and started studying and it has helped me a ton!
I’ve also learned my self worth and value of my products.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Of course we have to hit up a sushi spot. Downtown Dallas is my favorite spot in the city. The skyline is one of the best. I LOVE trying new restaurants. We would be eating out a lot. We could shop at either the galleria or north park mall. I’ve always wanted to go to an escape room. Dave n Busters is fun! I’m a kid at heart. I enjoy life and the small things.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Everyone who played a part in me becoming an entrepreneur of Cositas definitely needs a huge shoutout! God first, thank you for listening to my prayers and guiding me.
Tristan; My love, thank you for my first sewing machine that started the beginning of my creative run.
My mom: for allowing me to use up a whole room in her house just for my work. Also watching my kids whenever I need help.
Kim: my bestest friend! OMG, when I say this girl keeps me on my toes and on my ish, she keeps me in line.
Thank you to my sister and all my sisters, my mother in law, brother, my dad…I really hope I didn’t forget anyone. If I did, I promise I don’t mean to leave you out. I am just as thankful for you too!

Website: www.cositasbyanele.com

Instagram: @cositasbyanele

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

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW 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