We had the good fortune of connecting with Berenice Mendez, CLU® and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Berenice, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
At 19 years old I began my career in the Insurance industry and quickly realized the need for more Spanish speaking agents. This passion for making resources available to our Spanish speaking community around the importance and value of Insurance is what led a 10 year goal to open my own Agency one day. Now, I am proud to serve all customers including Spanish speakers by education them on the options available and empowering them to make informed decisions that will not only protect their loved ones today but leave a legacy through generational wealth.
What should our readers know about your business?
With an industry that is filled with options, the only differentiator is “Me”. My story, my “why” is my selling point.
I pride myself in genuinely caring for my community and serving people. I am most proud of the success we have had in executing the vision that God placed in my heart 12 years ago. Educating customers on a daily basis on how to protect their loved ones and everything they have worked hard for is what drives our agency.
At 19 I knew it would take time, development and effort to get to where I am today. It was not easy, naturally I am a planner and I needed every detail to be perfect, including the timing of when I would launch my Agency. Business ownership is one of the hardest things I’ve had to do. The challenges of staying motivated regardless of outside factors are constant and I’ve learned to appreciate them, learn from them and expect them. A problem solving mindset has been one of the main contributing factors to my success allowing me to become the fearless leader I am today.
With Spanish being my first language, being raised by a single mom, becoming a first generation college grad and now first generation business owner, I have overcome many obstacles in life that would allow many to understand that they too can achieve their dreams. I hope my story encourages little girls to dream big, reminds young girls to make things happen for themselves and empowers women to go for it!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am a big foodie always in search for the next great bite! Typically when people are visiting we begin with The Taco Spot for some authentic street tacos and birria right in our backyard and soon to come to the DFW area. Stay tunned!
Other favorites include Hutchin’s Barbecue in McKinney for the best in the area. Bishop Arts district has great shops and an all time favorite, Enos Pizza. When we are needing variety, Legacy Hall in Plano is our go to, great food options and music. If we are in the spirit of Latin food and salsa dancing Latin Pig in the Colony has a great ambiance and live music.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband Danny and son Ian have been my “Why” throughout this journey. They have encouraged me when I wanted to give up and supported me when I needed it the most. Like anything else, a strong community makes the struggles of business ownership easier, I am blessed with family and friends who have not only supported my business by being loyal customers but through their prayers. Throughout this journey I have had amazing mentors and leaders guiding my steps and reminding me what I was called to do. Shout out to Donna Rahrovi, Cody Manis and Albert Cortez. Lastly, I am thankful for all the customers that have given me the opportunity to serve them!
Website: www.berenicemendez.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/myinsurancegirl?igshid=1pnhl2wukfdmr
Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/berenice-mendez-clu®-7712a9122
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mytxagent/
Other: Berenice Mendez- State Farm 972-537-5131 101 E Corporate Dr Ste 200 Lewisville, TX 75067
Image Credits
Pink Blazer Headshot: JESSICA CERNAT PHOTOGRAPHY