𝗟𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗜𝗔 𝗟𝗜𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗔~𝗔 𝗕𝗥𝗢𝗪𝗡𝗦𝗩𝗜𝗟𝗟𝗘 𝗦𝗨𝗖𝗖𝗘𝗦𝗦 𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬 𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗠 𝗦𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟𝗢𝗔, 𝗠𝗘𝗫𝗜𝗖𝗢

 By Rene Torres

Lorenia with Beloved Tia Cuca

Lorenia was born in 1961 in Sinaloa, Mexico, she is one of ten in her family. Her education matches what we identify in this country as “Middle School.” 

But, her real education and the complexities of life she's learned through hard work.

At the age of 8 she was already doing what she could do to earn a nickel, and always dreaming of what the future might bring.

To escape her daily woes, she frequently visited her Tia Cuca and her beloved aunt became her closest friend and mentor.

It was Tia Cuca that taught her how to sew and to use her imagination when using the sewing machine.

 “She was like my second mother,” said Lorenia.

It was during her middle teenage years that Lorenia decided that it was time to leave the friendly confines of home in Mexico. 

So, as a young, pregnant woman, she journeyed to California to face the unknown of the United States.

Why California? 

It was where she met up again with her aunt Cuca who welcomed her with open arms. It was a love affair never forgotten. She stayed in California for 13 years working in the used clothing business.

With plenty of successful experiences and loaded with energy, Lorenia pursuits her passion and moved to Brownsville, this time joining her sister.

Halloween Costumes

Her sister had her own business and Lorenia was a welcome addition, but, while they shared the same passion for clothing, their partnership was short-lived and Lorenia decided to establish her own store.

That was 2017, Lorenia’s crowning moment, establishing her business in the old Jackson Feed and Seed Building on Washington Street in Brownsville. 

Charro Days Outfits

Entering the store you're immediately drawn to a variety of antique furniture painted in all the colors of the rainbow, beautiful Mexican dresses and other merchandise of yesteryear.

Now, its considered trendy to walk the streets of downtown Brownsville and her customers are from all walks of life.

Yes, she admits that sometimes business is slow, but it rejuvenates during Halloween and Charro Days.

Lorenia is a genius behind the sewing machine, so, some of her Halloween and Charro costumes are personally crafted, so unique that they sell out every year at affordable prices!

Lorenia has no boundaries when it comes to creativity.

While her biggest supporters have always been family and friends, her deepest gratitude is reserved for dear “Tia Cuca.”

This country has given Lorenia the opportunities to elevate her status as a businesswoman and, for that, she is undoubtedly grateful.

Today, with weary hands, she continues to add to her legacy, “one stitch at a time.” 

Oh! By the way, she entered this country legally as so did the rest of her family.