Our Inspiration and Story
Our inspiration started when Co-Founders Alex and Cassandra went off to find quality Mexican products in their new home. They wanted to mix pieces of their culture into their contemporary home and everyday life. They became disappointed to see the lack of available products in Los Angeles. So they went off to the Mexican border to try to find them and came up empty. They also noticed that large chains dabbled in hand-crafted imported products, but the products were limited in assortment and priced as luxury items. It turned out that a big portion of the profits went to the celebrity or business with no credit or commitment to helping the artisans who put years of learning and hard work into building their craft. It was then that the idea for MyCajita was born.
Danny joined at inception and went off to travel Mexico in search of experiences and quickly learned how artisans were being marginalized. We quickly committed ourselves to work closely with artisans in an effort to provide fair wages, economic support, and resources to share, celebrate and continue their trade often passed on for several generations.
We then quickly pitched a small network of family, friends and business leaders to financially seed the company and combined with a successful Kickstarter campaign we were up and running.
As of today, we have worked with over 1000 artisans in regions all over Mexico. Our deep relationships with artisans have allowed us to provide fresh new and often custom made box experiences every month. We are continuing to raise capital and aspire to continue to help thousands of our customers discover something special new every month. The additional resources will help also expand our services to artisans including micro-loans, access to equipment and tools, logistical support and more.
From the heart of Mexico to its influence in the U.S., Mexico’s life is weaved in the threads of the Americas. We are inspired by the stories of the people, groups, and organizations that helped shape the culture and those that have embraced and transformed it in today’s age. We are passionate about sharing the diversity of Mexico with our members. To discover, learn and experience something new and help develop a deeper appreciation with practical and fun experiences every month.
Our Mission
We believe in creating opportunities for economically and socially marginalized artisans and producers. We are deeply committed to the communities we serve and give back by offering special programs for artisans and opportunities for development and advancement to charitable partners.
We strive to create an inclusive environment designed to attract, develop, and advance the most talented individuals regardless of their race, sexual orientation, religion, age, gender, disability status or any other dimension of diversity.
MEET THE FOUNDERS
Alex Lopez
Co-Founder
Inspired by his parent's small Mexican grocery store, Alex’s entrepreneurial drive started in elementary school selling trading cards, candy, and trending toys. Today, Alex is an award-winning leader in strategy, technology, and marketing.
Alex graduated from Cal State Fullerton, where he served as student body president and was appointed to the Board of Trustees by the Governor of California. He’s also a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Brown Belt and a proud father of three.
Danny Vivian
Co-Founder
Leaving a career behind in the financial management sector, Danny, an adventurer at heart, left the states and backpacked throughout Central and South America for five years to take in all the beauty of Latin American culture.
Upon his return, he helped start MyCajita and quickly made Mexico his second home. He works directly with artisans all over Mexico curating and creating products. He leads the product development team to create one-of-a-kind boxes and ensure that our members are getting an authentic and one-of-a-kind experience.
Danny graduated from Cal State, Long Beach, where he studied International Business and Finance.
Rachel Matos
Co-Founder
Rachel is an exhibited artist, former museum professional, and a social media and influencer marketing veteran, specifically in the latinx and multicultural markets.
Combining her background in the arts and marketing know-how, Rachel oversees MyCajita’s marketing efforts as well as brand initiatives. She also works closely with the product development team to help enhance the overall membership experience.
Rachel graduated from School of Visual Arts, NYC and majored in Modern Art and Critical Studies at Columbia University.