For 30 days, from September 15 to October 15, it’s time to shine a spotlight on Hispanics and Latinos in the United States. While these dates were originally set to celebrate and acknowledge the many Latin American countries that gained independence from Spain, this month is also a time to focus on the contributions and progress this community has fostered in this country.
Here at Rover, we want to highlight rising entrepreneurs, artists, and small business owners from this community. We interviewed four individuals who have upheld the cultural values of hard work, optimism, and family—all while keeping their love for pets front and center.
Apridot Studios
Anyone who has ever been bit by the organization bug knows there is no end to motivational stationery. Whether you are eager to buy new notepads and stickers for school or need to make taxes a little more appealing, Apridot Studios has your needs covered. We especially love the custom notepad titled ‘Getting Your Shit Together’ where a little poopy cat is looking pleased for a job well done.
“I feel most connected when I share art that describes a universally Latin experience and people respond with love,” says April A. Rubio, a queer Afro-Latina illustrator. “Even though I speak Spanish, I always felt like I was in-between—not Dominican enough but also not American enough, so being able to find that connection through my art now has been really eye-opening and healing for me.”
As a way of giving back to her community, April donates a portion of sales to organizations, like Entre Hermanos, The Trevor Project, AAPI Women Lead, Black Girls Smile, The Northwest Abortion Access Fund and the Contigo Fund, who have a long history of giving back. Another exciting way of giving back that April has planned also happens to be local. For those in Seattle, you may see April’s work at a local cat convention or café! “I’d also really love to work with local cat shelters or cafes to illustrate some of their kitties and help them raise funds or find them new homes,” she tells us.
For now, however, her pet inspiration comes from her cats at home. “Brie and Mimieux, [my cats] often inspire my artwork with their affection. They’re both cuddle bugs and help me through art blocks sometimes just by being near me. Brie likes to give me hugs, she’ll climb up on my lap and jump to my shoulder and lean her head against mine, it’s my favorite thing!”
From washitape to cards, check out Apridot Studios for delightful stationery goods.
Bundle x Joy
From the soft rainbow colors to practical but colorful bundles, Bundle x Joy has nailed the palette and personas for modern pet parents. “When you take our Pup Personality quiz, you can find out if your pup is Golden, Vibrant, or Brave,” says Jess Berger, the unique mind behind the brand. As a Latina entrepreneur, she is passionate about building a community representative of the diverse pet parent community.
Of course it would be a miss not to mention her Great Danes, Luna and Sol, at home who inspire her to forge forward with her dream. “I struggled to find high-quality nutrition and probiotics at an affordable price—and I was frustrated with having to go to several places to get all I needed for my pups,” she says. “Which is why I decided to build Bundle x Joy.”
Joy is not only in name either. Jess points to their 3% giveback initiatives and recent partnership with BestyBnB. “Our newest partnership with BestyBnB, helps provide safe-night stays for pups in need due to a domestic violence situation,” she says, emphasizing the company’s commitment to celebrating people and pets (and the people behind pets).
Another combination of these celebratory efforts can also be found at the Joy Shop, which expands their offerings with products from other small businesses, like Ava’s Pet Palace and Sassy Woof. And if there isn’t something for you now, there likely will be next year. Recently coming off their one-year anniversary, Bundle x Joy is looking to add even more new products in 2024.
Take the Pup Personality quiz over at Bundle x Joy!
Alanna Rivera Studios
Painter and illustrator Alanna Rivera is a full-time artist and one of the few Latinx women in the United States who have a Masters in Fine Arts. “My father and my aunt, who are from El Salvador, are both artists, but were never able to pursue it as a career. I’m very fortunate to have found a path where I can pursue my art professionally,” she tells Rover.
This pursuit has led to many introspections for Alanna, much of which shows up in her paintings. “I am so grateful to be an artist and I try to use my art as a platform to speak up about issues of discrimination,” she says.
Alanna first started her art career mainly working on pet portraits commissions. She would mirror the level of care and passion her clients had for their pets into her pieces, identifying closely with how pets can be the center of our world.
“[Isa, my adopted rescue] has very expressive eyes and is often listening and paying attention to whatever we’re doing,” Alanna says. “Sometimes when I get overwhelmed, I’ll take her for a quick walk. I’ll tell myself I’m doing it for her, but really I’m doing it for my own well-being too. Having her around helps ground me and keeps everything I’m doing in perspective.”
Alanna’s more recent, exhibited work has moved away from pet portraits to more heavier but equally emotive topics such as trauma, sexism, racism and being an immigrant. “I feel very passionate about humanizing the issues around immigration through my art and have made several paintings using pop culture to talk about how human beings are not illegal,” she says, reflecting on this pivot.
But it doesn’t mean Alanna has moved away from pet portraits entirely. One of her dreams is to do a show of large oil paintings. Imagine a four by five foot tall painting of a dog playing in the yard, being in the studio, or having fun on a walk. Alanna is dreaming about that show one day, with her dog, Isa, as the star subject.
“I’m so grateful that she’s part of my life and I think she should be celebrated.”
Check out Alanna’s work and commission rates at Alanna Rivera Studios.
The Goodest Pet
We’ve talked about The Goodest Pet in our LGBTQ+ pet businesses to support during Pride Month—and we’re so excited to dive deeper into Vania’s story here for Hispanic Heritage Month.
Growing up in a creative environment and multifamily environment in Peru, Vania witnessed her mother and grandma use their creative talents to earn a living. These memories and experiences laid a strong foundation for Vania’s venture into The Goodest Pet, influencing many of her designs.
“From small businesses like party balloon decorations and cakes to teaching classes out of our home, I was surrounded by so many different types of crafts,” Vania shares with us. While Vania originally pursued a path in animal welfare, she eventually found her way back to her creative roots. “I no longer work directly with animals, but I found ways to merge my creative side with my love for them,” she says. “I don’t think I would’ve been able to [without my life-changing experience in animal welfare].”
What we especially love about Vania’s work is the commitment to connection and creativity that she brings. Each purchase comes with a handwritten note, a process which Vania greatly enjoys. “I am filled with gratitude every time I am making and packing up an order. It really is the easiest thing for me, to express that gratitude to all of my supportive clients.”
For now, Vania is in a healthy place with her business. Rather than succumb to the pressure of growth and expansion, she wants to enjoy the creative process of making bandanas, collars, and other accessories for loved pets.
Check out which accessories your pet needs at The Goodest Pet Etsy Store.