LAEDA: Entrepreneurship is a very challenging path to take with many different possible directions. What made you decide to become an entrepreneur?

Patricia: I became an entrepreneur out of necessity. I was unemployed and without a job prospect. I decided entrepreneurship was my best option. My business was birthed from my experience. I have a degree in international business, with a focus on imports and exports, and experience in clothing and textile sales from Colombia. Entrepreneurship seemed like the natural direction to go.

LAEDA: Why did you choose your industry?

Patricia: I worked in clothing and textiles in Colombia, so it was an industry that I was familiar with.

LAEDA: Tell me about your experience while attending EDTP. What have the major takeaways been from the program? Have you had any “Ah-ha!” moments? How did the program help you?

Patricia: My education in international business in Colombia gave me a foundation in traditional business theory. EDTP has provided me with a business education update that was applicable for my business today. My major takeaway is that the world of marketing has changed and it is critical that businesses learn how to use social media for marketing.

LAEDA: Tell me about your journey on the road to business start-up. What have been some of the challenges, successes, failures, etc.?

Patricia: The most persistent challenge for me is improving my capacity in English. Sales and marketing requires subtly and nuisance with language. I am fairly fluent in English already, but it is challenging to learn the complicated ways in which language, culture, and sales all intersect. I am continuously learning how to best approach my clients with a more nuanced use of English.

LAEDA: Could you tell me a little about where your business is today?

Patricia: My business is currently going through a major period of expansion. The physical space of the business will more than triple in the coming months and Latin Fashion with add a spa component to the current business.

LAEDA: Do you have any advice for future (or existing) entrepreneurs?

Patricia: The most important advice I can give to early entrepreneurs is to do as much research as possible early on before you jump into something. Early research and education can reduce (some) future stress and frustration.

Congratulations to Patricia Arcila for completing EDTP and recommitting to her journey on the path of entrepreneurship. She decided to open her own business specializing in Columbian style undergarments, lingerie, and fajas in North Philadelphia. Her clientele has expanded to African Americans and all women who want the secret of Colombian beauty. The fajas are also worn by people who recently had plastic surgery. The fajas help the body heal after surgery and come in varying compressions. Latin Fashion is a store that specializes in the following: fajas, butt lifters, Colombian jeans, Brazilian bikinis, and lingerie. For more information, check out the Latin Fashion Instragram at https://www.instagram.com/_latinfashion_/ or her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/LatinFashionImpExpInc. You can also call the store at 215-329-0352 or reach her on her cell phone at 267-254-8409.

The Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP) is a free, nine-week business skills training course offered in Camden, NJ in the Winter Spring and Fall each year. Qualified entrepreneurs receive 72+ hours of training from industry professionals, business planning, and one year of technical assistance. Apply online at www.LAEDA.com