The mother-daughter duo behind the creation of luxury accessories brand Beamina is an inspiration. As a Latina girl mom myself, I’m thrilled to introduce this Latina-owned business to you and share their story of triumph. Their story may not be a typical one, but the love, support, and determination of these two women is one we can all relate to.
It’s hard to say how many kids ask for a sewing machine as a Christmas present, especially when computers and tech toys have become the norm. This could be the opening line of a movie, or an excerpt from a novel, except that this is Paulina Anchia’s true story — the story of determined, gifted 15-year-old and her mother, Betty Martínez, 47, who co-founded Beamina, a profitable high-end leather goods brand whose products are made in Spain and Italy.
Beamina has intentionally intertwined the first letters of Beatriz's name, BE and Paulina’s nickname, Amina, which means fearless, protected warrior in Arabic. It's impossible to find better words to describe the women who started this family business.
The company started as a little girl’s hobby. It was in the family’s living room in Puerto Rico where little Paulina first showed her talent for handbag design and created her prototypes out of paper. It was her calling and her passion. Those handbags eventually evolved into a top-quality accessories collection, hand-crafted with exquisite cutting-edge materials.
They're the same handbags that now line the shelves at luxury retailers like Spain's El Corte Inglés — handbags treasured and coveted by fans like Her Majesty Doña Letizia Ortíz Rocasolano, Queen of Spain, as well as supermodels like Czech sensation Karolina Kurkova. In Beamina, Beatriz and Paulina have created a brand that is 100% Latina, independent, self-financed, women-led, purposeful, and refreshing. These women are 100% puro poderosas (pure power).
Beamina is building a legacy, cultivating equity, and looking to fill a void in the market by offering consciously made, perennial options, possibly even future heirlooms to be passed down from mothers to daughters everywhere. Beamina also supports key initiatives to empower women. Bound by love and guided by the resilient spirit of by their ancestors, Beatriz and Paulina know the journey is just beginning and there's a long road ahead.
It hasn’t been easy, but they weren’t expecting it to be. The pair is focused on offering products they both feel proud of and have fun creating. Both mother and daughter absolutely love fashion, and are bona fide style connoisseurs. While a young maverick like Paulina gravitates toward bold, audacious looks, Beatriz is the epitome of elegance, a hybrid between the classic and the modern.
In the end, they meet halfway, they compromise, they go with the flow, united by the same goal, the same dream — making Beamina a global fashion force. They won’t rest until they make it.
CafeMom had the pleasure of interviewing Betty and Paulina and I know you’ll find them just as inspirational as we do.
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Beamina's story is fascinating, with Paulina starting her design journey at just 4 years old. Paulina, can you share what inspired you at such a young age to dive into the world of fashion and design?
"At a young age everyone has big hopes and dreams, I decided that I actually wanted to pursue the dream of creating a fashion brand with purpose, called Beamina. I imagined the brand and with the help of my mom I was able to do so. But, the world of fashion was really simple at that time," Paulina tells CafeMom.
"Ever since I was very little, I loved playing with dolls and dressing them up and I also loved getting ready with my mom when she went out. I started making paper bags when I was 4 years old, and when I turned 6 years old I started sewing the bags. I could spend an entire day making bags for hours. Little moments like these made me realize I was so involved with everything of fashion that it became more of a passion … it became a real fashion brand.
Betty, as Paulina’s mother and business partner, what has it been like to nurture and support Paulina's entrepreneurial spirit and creative talent from the beginning? Can you tell us about the dynamic of working alongside your talented daughter in the fashion industry? How do you both balance your roles within Beamina?
"As parents, we believe it is crucial to recognize and nurture the unique talents our children possess. Take Paulina, for example — since the age of 4, she has been creating paper bags, and by 6, she was already sewing her own bags. This became her daily, passionate hobby, occupying hours of her time. As a mother, one of my greatest accomplishments has been fostering her entrepreneurial spirit and providing unwavering support," Betty says.
"Together, we have embarked on a journey of personal and business growth, understanding each other's strengths and weaknesses. This dynamic has been instrumental in the success of our brand. Paulina starts with the idea, then we get together to develop and understand the possibilities within the initial idea."
Beamina's designs are described as sexy, innovative, and refreshing. How do these qualities translate into your luxury leather goods, and what sets them apart in the fashion industry? How do you come up with new ideas and bring them to life?
"Beamina is more than just a brand: it is a brand with purpose. Our goal is to inspire and show others that anything is possible. Fashion has always come naturally to my mom and me. We love the creative process of sitting down and envisioning what we want to achieve. Our designs are a reflection of our unique perspective and our mission to empower women," Paulina says. "When you wear Beamina, we want you to feel empowered and confident. Our designs are carefully crafted to be versatile, allowing you to express your individuality and personal style," she explains.
"We embrace femininity, creating pieces that celebrate the beauty and strength of women. Our purpose is to inspire and uplift. We want to make a difference in the lives of women by providing them with fashion that not only makes them look good but also makes them feel good. We believe that every woman deserves to feel empowered and confident in her own skin, and we strive to create designs that help make that a reality."
Could you walk us through your creative process? You mentioned always being in a mindful state. How does this mindfulness influence your design approach?
"Our creative process flows naturally, guided by what we affectionately call 'La Musa' [the muse]. We find joy and inspiration in the spontaneous arrival of ideas, allowing them to develop organically without force or constraint," she says.
"Now that we are growing as a brand, we want to have a correlation in all our designs. As we grow we also learn. The complete process of developing a brand from zero has been an amazing journey."
Betty, you mentioned traveling to Europe for craftsmanship, specifically Spain and Italy. How important was this journey in establishing the brand's quality and reputation? What challenges did you face in the competitive fashion industry? Could you share some specific experiences or insights?
"The journey to Europe, particularly to Spain and Italy in search of craftsmanship for Beamina was integral in establishing the brand's quality and reputation. It provided us with the opportunity to witness firsthand the exceptional skills and traditions passed down through generations. This immersion in craftsmanship allowed us to select the finest materials and work closely with artisans that understand and value the mission … the purpose and commitment to excellence of Beamina," Betty says.
"In the highly competitive fashion industry we faced numerous challenges. One of the main obstacles was differentiating ourselves from other brands and creating a unique identity. We had to find ways to stand out and capture the attention of discerning customers. This required extensive research, creativity, and a deep understanding of our audience. During our journey we gained valuable insights and experiences that shaped Beamina's brand identity," she explains.
"We observed the meticulous attention to detail and dedication of craftsmen, inspiring us to prioritize quality in every aspect of our products. Additionally, we learned the importance of preserving traditional techniques while incorporating modern elements to create timeless designs. These helped us craft a brand identity that reflected our passion for innovation and timeless elegance."
Paulina, your journey started with making paper bags and then sewing. How have your family's roots in Puerto Rico and Cuba influenced your design aesthetic and work ethic?
"The rich history of my hardworking family has greatly influenced who I am today and the values I hold dear. From my grandparents' exile from Cuba to building a new life in Puerto Rico, their determination and commitment to family have been a driving force in my life. Balancing work and family, staying true to our values and embodying humility are all attributes that I carry with me," Paulina says. "My work ethic, as well as my mother's, is deeply rooted in the example set by my grandfather, Pablo. He was a remarkable individual who started from nothing and built a life full of values, hard work, and determination. However, what mattered most to him was his family. He taught me the importance of staying true to myself, being humble and making a positive impact in the world," she says.
"Life is short … and we are all here to make a difference. Given the opportunity to develop our brand, Beamina, we feel responsible to give back to those in need. Beamina is more than just a fashion brand, it is a symbol of purpose and giving back. It represents the values I hold dear and the aspirations I have in life. If we can accomplish our mission as a brand and make a positive impact, that brings me happiness. It is the purpose that propels us forward and pushes us to exceed our limits."
Bombón is a coveted hero bag from Beamina. What makes this particular bag so special, and what does it represent for the brand?
"The Beamina Bombón bag is our iconic bag. [It] is indeed a coveted hero bag from Beamina … it's how everything started, and it holds a special place in our brand's identity. What sets this bag apart is not only its exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail but also the story and symbolism it embodies," Paulina explains.
"The Bombón bag represents the perfect blend of luxury, elegance, and functionality. It is meticulously handcrafted using the finest materials, ensuring exceptional quality and durability. The bag's patent design is timeless, with clean lines and a versatile silhouette that effortlessly complements any outfit or occasion. Beyond its physical attributes, the Bombón bag represents the essence of the Beamina brand. It embodies our dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship while infusing modern elements," she continues.
"The Bombón bag symbolizes the brand's aspiration to empower and inspire women. It represents sophistication, confidence, and the idea that every woman deserves to feel special and celebrated. Reminding us to embrace the joy and beauty in life. The Bombón bag is a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to quality, timeless design, and the celebration of femininity. It serves as an iconic piece that embodies the essence of Beamina and resonates with our customers who appreciate luxury and style."
It's amazing that Beamina's designs have adorned top royals and supermodels. Can you share a memorable moment or experience when you realized the impact of your brand on such a global scale?
"It is truly humbling and remarkable to see Beamina's designs being embraced by top royals and supermodels around the world. The impact of our brand on such a global scale is a testament to the hard work, passion, and dedication that we pour into every design and detail. One memorable moment that stands out is when we received the confirmation that Her Majesty the Queen of Spain, Doña Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano, had her red Beamina Bombón bag," Paulina recalls.
"Another unforgettable experience was when we received a heartfelt message from the worldwide recognized Latin designer Carolina Herrera. Another great moment was when the super model Karolina Kurkova posted a picture of her on Instagram with our iconic Bombón. Reading such feedback and knowing that our creations have the power to uplift and empower individuals on a personal and professional level was incredibly rewarding."
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As we celebrate Latinx Heritage Month, how has your rich Caribbean, Latin, and Hispanic heritage played a role in shaping Beamina's identity and mission?
"Beamina's rich Caribbean, Latin, and Hispanic heritage plays a significant role in shaping our brand's identity and mission. Our heritage is a source of inspiration, creativity, and cultural pride that permeates every aspect of our work. Our heritage serves as a foundation for our design aesthetic," Paulina explains.
"The vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and exclusive designs found in the Caribbean, Latin, and Hispanic cultures are woven into our creations. We draw on the beauty and diversity of our heritage infusing it into our designs to be unique designs celebrating our cultural roots," she continues.
"Moreover, our heritage influences our mission as a brand. We are committed to promoting and preserving the synergy of our cultures. As our heritage shapes our values and the way we approach business. It instills in us a strong sense of community, inclusivity, and a deep appreciation for diversity. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month we are reminded of the significance of our heritage to honor and uplift our culture."
Beamina not only creates beautiful luxury goods but also supports NGOs promoting women's empowerment and positive change. How important is social responsibility to your brand, and what initiatives are you currently involved in?
"Beamina is fashion with purpose. Social responsibility is of utmost importance to the Beamina brand. We believe that as an affordable luxury fashion brand, it is our duty to use our platform to make a positive impact and contribute to the betterment of society particularly in the realm of women's empowerment," Paulina and Betty explain. "We donate to the Glasswing International Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a mission to empower others toward positive change. We believe that the ultimate luxury is giving back. We established a partnership with Glasswing International Foundation’s Youth L.E.A.D. [Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Development] program to help vulnerable girls in Latin America unleash their potential and thrive helping them develop their skills as future leaders."
"We empower girls in Latin America to develop their own talents for a better well-being. Developing new leaders in Latin America helps progress as a positive change in the world. Through these partnerships, we aim to amplify the voices of women, provide them with opportunities for growth and development, and foster a more inclusive and equitable society. Social responsibility is not just a box to check — it is an integral part of our DNA at Beamina."
