Meet David Rios

We recently connected with David Rios and have shared our conversation below.

Hi David , appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?

My resilience stems from my childhood experiences and the creativity that became my defining trait from an early age. Growing up in a small home with five kids in a one-bedroom welfare situation taught me the value of resourcefulness and compassion. Being raised at times in shelters, I understood firsthand the challenges faced by those with less, and this understanding drives me to give back to nonprofit organizations like Martha’s Village House.

Despite not having much money or education as a child, I realized that I did possess creativity, and that became my brand from the very beginning. At seven years old, I understood that creativity could lead to opportunities. It was this realization that fueled my imagination and allowed me to see possibilities beyond my circumstances.

Entering the real estate market, I saw a unique opportunity to combine my passion for design and creativity. This led me to acquire my own boutique hotel, The Velvet Rope here in Palm Springs, where I could bring my childhood fantasies to life. The hotel’s design reflects the over-the-top glamour and unique experiences I dreamt of as a kid—things I saw on TV but never thought were possible for me.

Running a boutique hotel has allowed me to offer guests a unique experience, showcasing my creativity and design. It is incredibly rewarding to see people from all over the world enjoy the spaces I’ve crafted spaces that are a tangible expression of my childhood dreams.

My resilience comes from my ability to transform adversity into creativity, using my imagination to overcome challenges and create opportunities. The journey from a child with dreams to a hotel owner who brings those dreams to life is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and the belief that anything is possible with imagination and hard work.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

David Rios: A Visionary in Design and Real Estate

With humble beginnings, David Rios has become an eclectic designer renowned for his ability to fuse modern, mid-century, and unique minimalistic styles. Over the past 25 years, David has been selling, flipping, and designing homes across Orange County, Los Angeles, and Palm Springs, leaving an indelible mark on each region with his distinctive touch. Adding to his latest accomplishments, he is now the boutique hotel owner of The Velvet Rope, a true testament to his style and creativity, with no detail spared.

David’s clients describe him as “incredibly talented, passionate, and a wild personality with a generous heart.” This combination of traits makes him not only a remarkable designer but also a trusted partner in real estate. Recognized as a Top 1% agent in Los Angeles County by the Pacific West Realtor Association Board, David’s achievements are a testament to his dedication and skill.

His design work was featured in six custom homes during Palm Springs 2020 Modernism Week, showcasing his ability to blend innovation with timeless elegance. As a keynote speaker for the 2020 Indio Home & Garden Show, David shared his insights and expertise, inspiring others in the industry.

David’s talent has also been recognized by major platforms, as he is a featured designer for both Living Spaces Styled by You and BuzzFeed. His unique style and approach have not only captivated audiences but also resulted in a record-breaking $20 million in home sales.

David Rios is truly a style all his own, continually pushing the boundaries of design and real estate with his visionary approach and unwavering passion.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

My playbook:

Be a Sponge and Stay Curious

The first piece of advice is to be a sponge. Immerse yourself in your area of interest, and don’t shy away from asking questions. Whether you’re entering a new industry or starting a business, it’s crucial to understand every facet of your business model. If you’re creating a product, learn everything about its origins—where the materials come from, how it’s made, and the intricacies of the supply chain. Having a comprehensive understanding of your brand and product is invaluable. This knowledge enables you to articulate your brand’s value and differentiate yourself from others in the market.

Share Your Knowledge Freely

Once you’ve gained insights and expertise, don’t keep it to yourself. Share your knowledge with others, especially those just entering the industry. This generosity not only helps others but also reinforces your understanding and establishes you as a thought leader. Remember, the most successful individuals and companies often find strength in collaboration and community, not just competition.

Value Every Experience

Every job or role you’ve held in the past is a stepping stone on your journey. Experiences in customer service, for example, are invaluable. They teach you how to interact with people from all walks of life, manage challenging situations, and provide exceptional service. These skills are crucial for long-term success, as they help you build strong relationships with customers and colleagues alike.

Cultivate Key Personal Traits

To succeed, it’s important to develop certain personal traits:

Good Personality: Your attitude and demeanor can open doors. Be approachable, positive, and resilient.

Multitasking Ability: Juggling multiple responsibilities is often required, especially when you’re starting out. Being able to handle various tasks efficiently is a vital skill.

Lifelong Learning: You’re never too old or too young to learn. Be open to learning from everyone—older, more experienced individuals and younger people with fresh perspectives. Their successes and failures can provide valuable lessons that can inform your own decisions.

Embrace Collaboration and Partnerships

When I started viewing others not as competitors but as collaborators, my business began to thrive. Collaborating with others brings diverse ideas and resources, helping you grow and innovate. Remember, even the most successful businesses are built on teamwork and partnerships. As your brand expands, the ability to work well with others will be a critical factor in achieving success.

Conquer Fear and Take Action

Finally, don’t let fear hold you back. Pursue what you’re passionate about and take bold steps toward your goals. Fear is often the biggest barrier to success. Overcoming it will empower you to take risks and seize opportunities that come your way.

What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?

Over the last 12 months, the biggest area of growth for me has been my understanding and use of social media, especially with the launch of a hotel, as a powerful marketing tool. I’ve learned to appreciate social media not just as a platform for connection but as a strategic avenue for business growth and brand expansion.

Diverse Insights and Learning

One of the most significant realizations I’ve had is the importance of seeking advice and insights from a diverse range of people on social media, regardless of age. By listening to what people across generations are interested in—from 17-year-olds to 70-year-olds—I’ve gained a comprehensive understanding of current trends, preferences, and behaviors. This diverse input has allowed me to tailor my content and approach to resonate with a broader audience.

Leveraging Social Media for Growth

Understanding social media as a free marketing tool has been a game-changer. Platforms like Instagram offer incredible opportunities for collaboration and brand visibility. By engaging in collaborative posts, I’ve been able to leverage the networks of others, extending my reach far beyond what I could achieve on my own. These collaborations have not only increased my brand’s visibility but also introduced me to new audiences worldwide.

Strategic Collaborations

Through strategic collaborations, I’ve seen firsthand how my brand can be amplified. Working with others in my industry and beyond has allowed me to showcase my creativity and design to a global audience. This has led to a growing network and a more substantial presence in the market.

Utilizing Available Tools

I’ve also focused on fully utilizing the tools that social media platforms provide. By dedicating time to understanding features like analytics, scheduling tools, and advertising options, I’ve been able to maximize the impact of my social media efforts. This strategic use of available resources has enabled me to take my business to the next level with minimal financial investment.

Continuous Improvement

The journey of understanding social media is ongoing. It requires continuous learning and adaptation, but the rewards have been substantial. By investing time and effort into this area, I’ve experienced significant growth in brand awareness and business development, proving that social media is an invaluable asset in today’s business landscape.

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