Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dynelly Del Valle. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Dynelly, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
I grew in Miami, a melting pot of people of all types, shapes, faces, colors, and backgrounds and never knew anything different until I moved just 10 miles north… Back then, I didn’t realize how those little 10 miles would affect me. While I knocked on an elderly woman’s door to look at her guest house for rent she looked me up and and down and said, “You do know this is a WHITE neighborhood don’t you?” I was shook, I thanked my mother for teaching me to respect my elders and bowed out gracefully. That was over 20 years ago and I still reflect on it. That day changed me. While at the time, it confused me and I wondered what she saw that I didn’t. Growing up in a melting pot means you feel just like part of the rainbow that lives there. But once I left, I realized that to her, I was a smudge on her perfect white canvas, but that’s not what art is about. I learned that standing out is an opportunity. It means all eyes are on you one way or another. It gives me the unintentional spotlight they never meant to shine.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
As I grow in my profession, I realize that my favorite part of my job is educating people on the love languages of plants, creating beautiful spaces harmonizing with them, all while supporting and uplifting artists whose work should be highlighted. I’m continuously educating myself and paying it forward as much as possible. I currently go to school full time studying Horticulture and bring those learnings back to my studios where I can share knowledge with those around me who are interested. I also just opened our second location at the Long Beach Exchange. Here we have a little more legroom to host workshops as well as offer different categories on the sales floor. As a spatial designer by trade, this space gives me a chance to play in that world as well. Almost all of the furniture is for sale there. The idea is that it’s a dynamic space that will constantly evolve as the pieces move in and out. We also focus on curating the space with pieces from companies that are Women, BIPOC, and/or LGBTQA+ owned.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The three most impactful things in my journey have been to never stop learning, to believe in myself, and it’s ok to say no. I’m a life long student. I’m forever learning more by either by practice, reading, or going to classes. I’ll never pretend to know everything about anything. Never stop believing in yourself. You’ll find that at one point or another even those you thought would always believe in you may have doubts and it doesn’t matter if you believe in yourself. It’s also absolutely ok to say no. As a small business owner you want to say yes to every “opportunity” and not leave anything on the table. But if it doesn’t serve you or your gut tells you otherwise it is ok to listen to it and politely decline.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I’m always looking to collaborate with artists and educators. I’d love to have a reciprocal space where there’s and influx of giving and receiving energy, art, and knowledge. I’m hoping to partner with people who would like to create installations and experiential spaces. My email hello@pippiandlola.com is always open.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.pippiandlola.com
- Instagram: @pippi.and.lola
