Meet Melissa Rojas: Owner & influencer of Chasing Camilla

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

Hi Melissa, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I was born in Michigan. Born into a Migrant family. We traveled every year back to Texas. So I’ve always felt a sense of connection to both states Michigan and Texas. My background impacted who I am today tremendously. Since I can remember my parents instilled in me to further my education and not have the same life they had. I was raised with really hard working parents. But also business savvy. Both my parents always hustled. I picked blueberries at a very young age. And at the age of fourteen worked in a blueberry factory. The Migrant life wasn’t easy. There were times, when we would drive up north, and spend the cold winter nights in a rest stop, to rest. But my parents made the best of it. Since I can remember I’ve always had a dream of owning my own store. Always been into fashion. When I was in high school I dreamt of owning my store and naming it Blueberry Factory. And all the interior decor would be shades of blue. As I grew older my vision shifted. But the shades of blue will always be my favorite color palette, hence my logo. My upbringing helped shape who I would become. Having to adapt quickly to different locations, hard work, the art of the hustle.  And having the love and support of my parents.  Molded me to who I am now.  I learned discipline and waking up early at a very young age. To me that’s very important to wake up early.  “The early bird, gets the worm” 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My brand is a Zarape inspired brand, with a modern twist. I grew up with el Zarape, so the memories I have are filled with warmth and color. I wanted to share the importance of such a historic piece the Zarape is.  So in most of my items that we make in house, will somehow have el Zarape.  And is what sets us apart. Such as my handmade bunny ears, mouse ears and Santa hats.  In addition we make and design our own clothing line. And we also travel in search of handmade items from Colombia and Mexico. We work with Artisans not only by buying their beautiful items but also I work with them. In hopes of bringing them more business. We like to promote them too. So they can land other accounts and grow. I have a strong background in fashion working as a personal assistant to Lindsay Lohan. Working for fashion houses such as Thomas Wylde. And have had a hand in styling celebrities. Also hand a stint working for corporate office Tilliy’s. My Journey started from the bottom. I was in one of my darkest time in my live. But I pulled my self out. And have been morning forward and healing.  My first collection was El Mentiroso, was based on real life experiences. My ex husband cheated and left me for someone else. I’ve learned that it’s okay to share. Not to necessarily bad mouth anyone. But to heal from it. My most sold design came from that. Which is my Fuerte print. I’ve received numerous messages from women that have gone through something similar or that the Fuerte tee reminds them to be strong. Now that design has been made into various clothing items. You have to do the foot work but be smart about it too. When I started I worked various markets. I traveled all over selling my merchandise.  I also sell wholesale to other specialty boutiques. I’ve learned that it all takes time, and we all grow at our own pace. So don’t compare yourself to others. I’ve learned to figure it out and put all my past work experience to use. Work with others, I can’t emphasize that enough. Wether it’s influencers photographers or other shops. Now I am able to travel with my favorite brand to work with @glamlindo_artesania. We’ve taken numerous trips together for our businesses. We work on shoots together and collaborations. She carries my merchandise in California. And I carry hers in Texas. I want people to know that you can really do what your heart desires. And it’s okay to dream big. Give yourself the opportunity to dream it! But believe it. I’m a single mom. Literally and figuratively Chasing Camilla. Being her mom has given me the strength I was looking for all my life. I love what I do and I love creating.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Rio Grande Valley is filled with small towns. And a super calm place. I would probably start off with showing them my parents house and shop. La Rancherita Market. They could have the full rancho tour experience. I would then take them to visit The city of Mcallen. We would have lunch in The Republic of Rio Grande. After take them for a walk in down town Mcallen. To check our shops. Then I would probably end back at my parents home. Where we can eat my dad’s famous Chuy’s chicken. I live a very simple life.    Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Well I would say my family, Mom, Dad, Sister, Brother, nieces and my God Mother if it wasn’t for them…. They literally have helped me from the ground up.  Arlene from @glamlindo_artesania has had a huge part to my growth and Linda Garcia from @luzwarrior.  And my closest friends Gigi and Zac have been by my side during my worst times and have guided towards the light.

Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ChasingCamilla?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=951629089
Instagram: @chasingcamilla
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/chasingcamilla1/

Image Credits
Rachel @L.a.momma