Cusina Maya Cookware , Javier & Jasmine Huertas
We always dreamed of bringing our family's cookware to the USA, and when the opportunity arose, we dove in. Sharing our unique, high-quality, lightweight product with this country is a blessing, especially as it helps preserve our family's legacy and create jobs in a third-world country.
Born and raised in Guatemala, Javier grew up watching his father's perfect cookware production, focusing on quality and affordability. This dedication made the company the #1 cookware brand in Guatemala. After 13 years of considering expansion, COVID and a work injury gave us the time to pursue this dream, leading to the creation of Cusina Maya in July 2021. Since then, we've participated in vendor events, been featured on Fox8 News, "Kickin' It with Kenny," and "New Day Cleveland," and introduced our product to the U.S.
Our product is unique because it is lightweight cookware that is still long-lasting and of high quality. The art of handcrafted cookware is hard to find these days. So not only are we able to help those who benefit from easy-to-use and clean cookware, those with disabilities or the aging population, but we are also able to continue to show that quality products can still be affordable. Each item is handcrafted in Guatemala so we can attest to the beauty and quality. We are very thankful to be a bridge between cultures and a disruptor in the cookware industry in the United States.
Stepping into this business was branching out into new territory. We knew we wanted to give it our best shot. When matched with our mentor, Chris Patterson, we knew from the first meeting that he would be a great support and guide as we walked through the unchartered territory.
From helping to write our business plan to giving us details about reaching out to certain stores, heading into the wholesale markets, managing our pitch, and giving us financial and loan advice, honestly, there is no part of our business that Chris has not helped or supported us in.
When we first started with Chris, we had only registered our business name and were in the process of our first shipment. Not only did he help us launch the business, encourage us on the things to lean into and go after, help us pursue our first retail location, get us set up to pitch the business, and give us guidance for each decision, but he also helped us make our first purchase. We are now in 13 stores across three states and growing.
Chris is our cheerleader. He has given us huge support every step of the way. He allows us the freedom to run the business but constantly makes suggestions and guides us along the path, helping to open opportunities and celebrating the wins and losses, too. We know we have been successful largely because of his support over the years.
If you have a business idea or ever dreamed of being your own boss, go for it. While we still feel we have so far to grow, we are proud of all we have accomplished and do not regret it. Make a plan and go for it.
Mr. Patterson is a seasoned professional with a proven track record of success across diverse...
