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Rebecca Barrera and Estella Alvarez are the best "sisters" partners one could ever imagine. Born and raised in the small community of Robstown , Texas , the very outgoing and fun-loving sisters always imagined owning their own business some day. Their mother, Adela Ruiz, set a good example for success with Taco Place , the business she owned and operated in Skidmore , Texas . By 1996, her mother moved back to Robstown and began motivating them to start their own business. At the time, both worked in the retailing industry. Estella, the creative hand of the two, worked at local Hobby Lobby and always dreamed of owning her own bridal retail shop. Rebecca was a Department Manager at local the Wal-Mart, where she worked 12 years. A special talent for baking, she was well-known around the community for delicious cakes which she baked for family, friends, and relatives for special occasions. Rebecca decided to leave Wal-Mart in September 2002 and begin baking a little more. The positive word of mouth brought more and more business. It was time to start thinking about moving the baking out of her home. With support from community, family and friends, Rebecca decided she would go out and rent a place. She later called her sister Estella at Hobby Lobby and said "Guess what! We are opening our own business and I have a placed picked out". Estella was a little stunned, but then very excited. She left Hobby Lobby in December and began planning their new Cookie, Gift Baskets, & Event Planning business. From Me to You was officially opened in October 2002.
September 2003, and almost one year in the business, the sisters decided to look into programs and loans for small business that could give them some working capital and expand their operation. They attended a seminar sponsored by the Small Business Development Center and the Robstown Area Development Commission. The seminar provided information on the Innovative Bank Small Office Home Office (SOHO) loan program. Elizabeth assisted clients with the application process and were approved for a small working capital loan.
Rebecca and Estella are enjoying their own business and all the success it has brought thus far. They are offering quality-baked goods, baskets and event planning services to a significant customer base that is very satisfying. The sister's constant focus is keeping the enjoyment in what they do, offering friendliness to all, and meeting customer needs by communication and heart, which is a key to business ownership? "Have a heart, Enjoy Life and business, and strive for what you want bad and not give up." This in time will bring payback and rewards." |
