Found Brands Helps Entrepreneurs Build Brands That Convert

Please share a brief introduction and tell us something about your business, Found Brands.

Hi, I am Miriam Alvarez. I started my story as a graphic designer and worked on building a team of women who create and build brands for entrepreneurs every day. My dream beyond creating brands is connecting directly with the dreamer and making their vision tangible, credible, and setting it up for success. At Found Brands, we always start with brand strategy to lay out the foundation we need to build a visually authentic and powerful brand that gives my clients the voice they didn't know they had. Yes, branding can change your business; it can change your life.

Take us back to when you launched Found Brands? What was your marketing strategy?

I started my business while holding a full-time job. I would take meetings during lunch time, before and after work hours, and even on weekends. I really enjoyed being able to be busy and growing my business organically. I started posting my work on Facebook and connecting with people through the platform. It was way friendlier and easier in 2011, that's for sure. That's what jump-started my business.

What accomplishments are you most proud of to date in your business?

I recently reached my revenue goals and am ready to push them higher. Being able to build a team of creative women who feel safe and free to expand their creativity, learn each day, and feel supported within a team.

What is one thing you wish you had known when you started your Entreprenista journey?

Not sure, I just think that I would've enjoyed joining Entreprenista sooner :)

When hiring, what is your go-to interview question?

Two questions I ask designers or creatives I hire are: What is absolutely something you need to have to flow creatively during this project? (Some designers need lists, others need a video explanation, others get inspired by Pinterest boards, and others just need solitude) Is there a creative discipline or area you haven't had the chance to explore or grow? (I want to know if they are willing to learn something new)

What did you do before starting your own business?

I studied graphic design and marketing. I also started another international business focused on creative branding before Found Brands, called Porta Creative, which is still thriving.

What made you take the leap to start your own business?

I wanted financial independence, the freedom of working from wherever I wanted in the world. I dream I've achieved the past 2 years, traveling through Europe with my husband while managing a team remotely and working for clients in up to 4 different countries at the same time.

Do you have any recent wins?

Moving back to the US after 2 years living in Europe. I see it as a win, as a chapter that has been completed. Being able to grow my business remotely in all senses of the word was something I was worried about, but it turned out to be a beautiful adventure, and I can't wait to do it all over again.

What's one app on your phone that you cannot live without?

I'm in love with Open, an app for daily meditations and breathwork.

Who are your customers?

Solopreneurs and small and medium-sized service-based businesses. Entrepreneurs, start-ups, and businesses that are ready to rebrand.

What's your top productivity tip?

Stop trying to manage time and understand how to manage your energy. Something unique to all of us, and must be uncovered by knowing ourselves.

What's your favorite business tool?

Having a calendar where clients and connections can schedule a time with me is freeing. I never have to check my calendar and make a list of available times; it's quick, easy, and practical for everyone. Currently using Calendly.

What's your approach to work-life balance?

I believe in seasons, in waves, more than a daily work-life balance approach. There are moments during a week, a month, or a year, where we have to be all in regarding work, and other moments that ask us to pause, to pay attention to our bodies, to be present with our loved ones, fully. The magic is understanding that those moments don't last forever, and we need to make the most of them. And if we can't identify them, that means we need to create them.

How do you avoid burnout?

It's almost the same answer as the previous question. If we learn to manage our energy instead of our time, we can be respectful of what our minds and bodies need to stay productive and not burn out.

What advice do you have for aspiring Entreprenistas?

If you're looking to grow a network with purpose and intention, in a safe, inspiring, and strong community, I would look no further and join :)

Learn more about the Entreprenista League and join today

‍