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

Hi Zelene, how did you come up with the idea for your business?

Owner @ Zetha Paradise “Be fearlessly authentic” – Growing up I’ve always been into fashion. As a little girl, I’d change my outfit 3-4 times a day, always making sure, I wouldn’t forget to accessorize.

I’ve always believed that accessories pull the look together and make it unique. Similar to icing on a cake, they are the finishing touch. That takeaway has lived with me throughout the years, graciously gaining the acknowledgment of others, and now later, inspire me to start my own business.

The idea was easy, coming up with the colors and logo was so much fun. However, growing your audience and having a strong online presence can be a challenge. It sounds and looks easy, but what happens behind the scenes and the time it consumes, is where the challenge comes in. Juggling a full-time corporate job, along with managing a nonprofit (Sol Y Luz Inc.), actively sitting on the Board of a Women’s Empowerment Organization (Latinas-N- Heels) and carving the time to focus on Zetha Paradise is a challenge. But, one thing I learned is that you make time for what you want. No matter how busy life becomes, if it is important to you, you will make the time for it. When you feel like giving up, keep going, keep moving and keep growing!

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

Zetha Paradise’s focus is in providing trendy and classic lightweight accessories. Heavy earrings can come at a high cost. That is the high cost of reconstructive earlobe surgery needed, after the damage caused to your earlobes by the use of heavy earrings.

As a social entrepreneur, I’ve married my love for fashion and service by donating a percentage of all sales to Sol Y Luz Inc., a United States based nonprofit geared towards helping the underserved and underprivileged seniors in Mexico.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The River Oaks District, The Heights & Rice Village are so much fun! For brunch we could start off at any of these depending on what mood we are in, Cuchara, Xochi, Toulouse, Squable, URBE, Backstreet Cafe, Bloom & Bee or Gratify.

For amazing cocktails or a glass of wine  we must go to Diversion Cocktails,  Permission Whiskey, 13 Celsius or Postino. As far as dinner, Graffiti, Annie’s Cafe, Turner’s, Xochi, or any of the River Oaks District restaurants.  With all the eating involved, we would need to find some time for a workout at Memorial Park or some kickboxing at 9 Rounds. Walking at The Galleria for some retail therapy is always an option.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

God First. Without him, nothing is possible. With him, all is possible.

All my friends & family who have supported me along the way.

“RS” thank you for all your support, love and encouragement.

“Latinas-N-Heels” organization, thank you for inspiring and empowering women.

Elizabeth Caro @Elizabeth Caro Store, thank you for thinking of me and your support.

Website: www.zethaparadise.com

Instagram: @zethaparadiseboutique

Facebook: Zetha Paradise Accessories

Image Credits
Brian Reyes Donald Valdez Batu C Volpe Maria Mendizabal

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