Today we’d like to introduce you to Ana Bolanos.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Ana. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I was born and raised in El Salvador, the smallest country in Central America. I have wonderful childhood memories. As a child, I enjoyed playing outdoors, going to the beach and enjoying the amazing tropical weather all year long. I left when I was 18 to pursue a college degree in the United States. Soon after, I started a family and moved to Atlanta in 2010. Even though I’ve been living far from my hometown of San Salvador, I have always traveled back to visit family and friends.
During my visits, I was able to reconnect with my traditions and Hispanic heritage. I developed a deeper appreciation and admiration for the beautiful artisan-crafted products made by local artisans. I always loved hammocks and became intrigued by the amazing handcrafted process. I realized that Salvadorian hammocks where so beautiful and that it would be a disservice not to share them with the world.
El Salvador is a beautiful place. However it is also a country that suffers from poverty and violence. Job opportunities are very scarce. I knew I wanted to make a difference and help and that’s why I decided to start Limbo Imports. I wanted to create a platform that could showcase beautiful hammocks and that would also be able to provide employment opportunities to artisans and a source of empowerment.
In 2018, I partnered with a local artisan group that has been making hammocks for generations. Together we designed and created a new collection of hammock chairs and hammocks. I noticed there could be a great potential for growth in the US market for high-quality handcrafted goods. My vision was to reach a new audience and showcase the beauty and functionality of hammocks. My goal was to maintain the traditional Mayan artisan process and adding a Boho modern flare and spin to each piece.
Has it been a smooth road?
For the most part is has been a wonderful experience. I really enjoy this business and am passionate about it. However, I have had to learn to adapt to the seasonality of our products and tried to redirect the marketing efforts through to the changing seasons. I have also learned to listen to customers’ exact needs and modify the products as needed.
My biggest challenge has been learning about e-commerce. I have been teaching myself and learning about the ever-changing platforms (Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube.) for visibility. I am enjoying the process, but do admit it takes a lot of time, patient. I am trying new things all the time and try to move forward.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Limbo Imports Hammocks – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Our company offers handmade cotton hammocks and hammock chairs handcrafted by artisans in El Salvador. We cater mostly to the modern females that want to add a trendy yet functional piece of furniture to their home.
Limbo Imports Hammocks was created in 2018. We design and import handmade hammocks and hammock chairs. We serve those who are looking to create a peaceful retreat at home that allows them to relax and enjoy some time. We work diligently with artisan partners in El Salvador to create beautiful pieces, and to provide excellent quality. We value the craftsmanship and abide to fair trade principles. We have a transparent supply chain.
We are proud to say that our pieces are all made from 100% cotton and stay away from synthetic materials. Cotton is a natural fabric that is breathable and resistant. We incorporate sustainable woods for the wood spreaders and have started using recycled denim fabrics as well. Our best sellers are handcrafted macrame and crochet hammocks that are made delicately by hand. Most of our sales are e-commerce websites but have been getting wholesale requests from boutiques that want to carry our hammocks. We are also starting to work with interior decor designers that are incorporating into their designs.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love being here in Atlanta area. It is a great city to run an e-commerce business and an ideal for distribution. We are making great connections locally that have helped us grow our business by creating a community. There are lots of opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs to make connections.
I love living in a city that has a diverse population with lots of ethnic backgrounds. I love trying foods from all over the world and meeting new people. Sometimes the traffic can be a bit tricky around the city, and limited access to larger roads to connect from one place to another.
Contact Info:
- Address: 3245 Peachtree Pkwy Suite D 424
- Phone: 6783825495
- Website: Www.limboimports.com
- Email: limboimports@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/limboimports/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/limboimports
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbd2tg8iI-PV-wHk3qVrMug
Image Credit:
Ana Bolanos
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