Meet AnaKarla Boteo | Business owner

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

Hi AnaKarla, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m a first-generation child to immigrant parents from Guatemala who was Born and raised in southeast Dallas, better known as Pleasant Grove. My hard-working parents set a great example in my household as I watched them daily instill good morals of a strong work ethic, respect, compassion, and appreciation.

Just like most other inner-city kids, I, too, was exposed to many harsh realities as an adolescent. Still, instead of becoming a statistic, on the contrary, my environment motivated me to rise above and follow my dreams. This led me to be the first person in my extended family to attend and graduate from a university.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

I’m incredibly excited about The Look Lab. I want everyone that’s a part of my business to feel proud and appreciated! My business leases suites to beauty professionals where they’re able to be their own boss and promote their own brand. It’s a business within a business! And I absolutely love minority empowerment and watching others thrive!
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit! I had a lemonade stand when I was in elementary. Although it wasn’t very profitable, the motivation has always been there haha. I also went to SMU, and business was one of my areas of study, so you could say my plans to become a business owner were always in the back of my mind. Ultimately, I’d say my primary motivation for starting my own business was to become a starting point in creating generational wealth. I’m a mother and want to leave my daughter a legacy.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The majority of the time would be spent eating! LOL! I may be biased because I was born and raised in Dallas but I believe we have great shopping and food, I’m starting with breakfast at el Ranchito in oak cliff because nothing beats fresh handmade tortillas for breakfast! Lunch I may stop at blue sushi sake grill for a quick lunch! Followed by frozen margaritas at mi cocina! Order me a “Dilemma!” Shopping at north park mall or highland park village would be fun! There are just so many great restaurants to choose from in Dallas, so the options for dinner are endless! But if you’re craving some street tacos, you’ve got to go to Tacos La Banqueta in east Dallas! Thank me later!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Definitely my family and my best friends. My boyfriend constantly motivates me to be the best version of me and to reach my highest potential. The unconditional love I feel from my daughter, and the constant support and prayers from my family and best friends.

Instagram: @thelooklabsuites

Image Credits
@eli_capture