Meet Trailblazer Biridiana Torres Garcilazo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Biridiana Torres Garcilazo.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Designing has been a passion of mine since I was a young child. I recall transforming regular notebooks into sketchbooks filled with fashion sketches that I would so proudly show to my friends and family. It wasn’t until my junior year of high school that I realized how strong my passion for designing truly was. Junior year of high school is when I attended a fashion design class where I learned the basics of sewing. I constructed a skirt for the class and a trash bag/duct tape dress for an FCCLA project.

My senior year in high school is where my skills were put to the test. After struggling to find the right prom dress the prior year, I was determined to design and create my own senior prom dress! I did not know how to construct this dress. I just knew I wanted to turn the dress I had envisioned into reality! Thankfully, I took an independent study for fashion design and with the guidance of Mrs. Kohrman, the teacher at the time, I was able to design and create my very first dress which I absolutely loved!

After constructing my prom dress from start to finish, I realized that I wanted to pursue my passion. I was accepted into Colorado State University and made it a goal to be accepted into the Apparel Design and Construction program. After waiting an entire semester, I finally received my acceptance letter into the program! I recall startling my youngest brother after reading the letter because of how excited I reacted!

I graduated from Colorado State University in 2016 with a Bachelor’s in Science in Apparel and Merchandising with a concentration in Apparel Design and Construction. I am extremely thankful for what I learned in the design program. I also interned at a couple of bridal boutiques during my time in school and learned many methods of construction that are needed when working on bridal gowns and dresses in general.

After graduation, I obtained a job at a bridal boutique in Denver. The learning experience there was incredible! Shortly after I decided to start my own brand and design and construct gowns independently.

In 2017 I started an Etsy Shop selling prom and sweet 16/quinceanera gowns. My brand is called IXA’LOYANA and focuses on creating custom gowns for girls and women with a fashion-forward vision. I have made and typically create gowns ranging from prom, sweet 16/quinceanera, children, wedding, and dresses worn to weddings or other formal events. The most popular dresses I currently make are dresses for baby girls celebrating their 1st birthday!

I am very passionate about designing and creating and absolutely adore what I do! I hope to grow my brand and share my love for designing in the form of custom gowns!

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The path leading to where I am today has definitely been challenging, however very much rewarding! The biggest struggles I have encountered so far is balancing my time equally between working and spending quality time with my loved ones. I always find myself wishing there was more time in the day.

Although at times, the road may be difficult, I do appreciate what I have learned with the experience of starting a brand and commend anyone pursuing entrepreneurship. If I can provide any advice for any women beginning their journey as an entrepreneur, it would be to never lose focus of the end goal. The journey will be difficult but always remember that patience is key and hard work, with time will pay off!

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about IXA’LOYANA – what should we know?
My brand IXA’LOYANA specializes in custom, special occasion custom gowns. I am known for creating high-quality gowns that often times incorporate flowers for detailing. I also am pleased to share that I photograph my own work as well.

Bringing happiness to my customers is what I’m most proud of as a brand. What sets my brand apart from others is the originality and details incorporated onto the custom dresses made by IXA’LOYANA.

Do you recommend any apps, books or podcasts that have been helpful to you?
When I am in the process of constructing a gown, I absolutely enjoy listening to music or a podcast! The two podcasts I mainly listen to are My Favorite Murder and the Joe Rogan Experience. The My Favorite Murder podcast keeps me entertained while giving me a good laugh every once and awhile. The Joe Rogan Experience podcast motivates me because oftentimes the guests on his show share their story and the journey they took to get where they are today!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/Ixaloyana
• Email: ixaloyana@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ixaloyana/
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/ixaloyana

Image Credit:
Photo credit: IXA’LOYANA

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