Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in Houston?
Born in El Salvador, we moved to Guatemala because of my husband’s work (He is a Business Coach) then moved to Houston in May of this year.
Child(ren) and Age(s)?
My daughter Carlota is 6 years old and she will be starting first grade this August. My youngest, Andres is 2 years old and we are currently looking for a Day Care for him to start this year.
They are both caring and happy kids, looking forward to meeting new friends and are well adapted to the new home that we now call Houston.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
Born and raised in a family that believes helping the community is a privilege.
Favorite local activities to do in Houston?
Going to the parks, museums, pool, and outdoor activities.
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world?
I started my Wedding & Event planner company called Save The Date (@savethedate503) 10 years ago in El Salvador and achieved to be known as one of the top wedding/event planners in El Salvador. During these years, I was invited to tv & radio national shows to talk about my work. and also had the chance to be in local wedding magazines.
I also started my Photography business shooting family portraits specializing in natural light (@jennyandinophotography). I love photographing family events such as kid’s birthday parties, bridal showers, gender reveals, small weddings, baptisms, Christmas and more.
I had the incredible opportunity to be the “family photographer” for some of my clients and that made me feel part of the biggest moments of their lives by watching them grow and celebrate their kids’ achievements/ milestones.
Now that we are in Houston, I have decided to promote my photography business and am now offering my services and looking for new clients.
How has the Houston community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
Even Though we just moved here, I have met really kind moms at the parks who have shared their recommendations with me and my kids have made new friends also.
People have been super kind to us and invited my kids to their kid’s birthday parties. That was so special to me, because moving to another country is not easy at the beginning for our kids. They left their best friends and family behind.
What is the best advice for juggling mommyhood and running a business (or volunteering, working, etc)?
“It takes a Village”, plan ahead and breathe. Having a support team of friends and family members helps a lot obviously, but mental care is also important, so it is ok to take a few minutes to yourself during the day to keep it together.
What would you tell the old “You” before you had kids?
Travel more hahaha.
Funniest shortcut/routine for helping you through parenthood?
During school days, we have “Happy Friday” activities with my kids: taking them to their favorite fast food restaurant, and a pajama party with movie night.
During weekends we were always going to my parent’s beach house back in El Salvador. That was our favorite, magical place. During summer/school vacations, it gets challenging so the ipads are on a bit longer than usual.
Thank you for reading my interview and please contact me for any photography needs. 🙂
