Two Latina Jewelry Makers Turn Etsy Shops Into Thriving Biz

When Soledad Proaño hitchhiked across Chile as a teenager selling handmade jewelry, she was already building the foundation for something bigger. Today, the Chilean-born artist runs a thriving Etsy shop from her Queens studio, creating prism suncatchers and jewelry that scatter rainbows across rooms and bring calm to busy lives.

Proaño describes herself as "a beautiful mix" shaped by migration and multiple cultures. Her work reflects that duality, balancing the energy of New York City with a deep craving for nature and quiet moments.

Each piece in her collection is handmade one at a time using recycled sterling silver, brass, 14k gold fill, and repurposed leather. The aesthetic feels clean and organic, with subtle textures that make every item special without trying too hard.

"My pieces are a reminder to appreciate the magic that appears at any given instant," Proaño says. Whether it's sculptural earrings or a hanging prism catching afternoon sun, her creations encourage people to slow down and notice beauty in everyday life.

Across the country, another creative partnership is flourishing. Perla and Griselda, a mother-daughter team, launched Analy Jewelry in 2018 with a dream of spending more time together while focusing on what matters most.

The shop name holds special meaning, chosen years ago by Perla's mother as her second name. Their colorful handmade earrings and accessories draw inspiration from their Mexican heritage and love of bold artistic expression.

"Our Mexican heritage inspires us to celebrate color, movement, and life in everything we design," the duo shares. Their pieces range from intricate beadwork to eye-catching color combinations, each one meant to feel like a tiny wearable work of art.

The Ripple Effect

These stories represent a broader movement happening across the country. More Latinas are launching businesses, building brands from scratch, and creating flexible, fulfilling lives on their own terms.

E-commerce platforms like Etsy have made it possible for creative dreams to grow into successful businesses with loyal communities. What starts as a side hustle or passion project can become something that supports entire families.

Both shops openly express gratitude for every customer who chooses to shop small. They understand that behind every order is someone making a conscious choice to support independent artists and family businesses.

Shopping from these creators means more than adding beautiful pieces to your collection. It means supporting stories, celebrating heritage, and investing in creative independence that ripples through entire communities.

These two shops prove that with talent, intention, and the right platform, handmade dreams can become thriving realities.