We were lucky to catch up with Marina Lopez recently and have shared our conversation below.
Marina, thank you so much for joining us and offering your lessons and wisdom for our readers. One of the things we most admire about you is your generosity and so we’d love if you could talk to us about where you think your generosity comes from.
Fika’s mission is to help kids get up to Bogus Basin by donating a certain portion from each purchase to the Bogus Basin kid’s scholarship program. My generosity was inspired by my father. Growing up, he taught my brother and I to “spend some, save some, and give some.” Starting my own business gave me an opportunity to give back to the community.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Over the past years for being an apart of the ski/snowboarding community, I’ve seen people rock the four point beanies. I always admired the style of this unique beanie and have always wanted to make my own. But I’m my own special way.
Last fall I was living my childhood dream, living in Hawaii. I was planning on living there for a decent amount of time, surfing, skating, and watching the sunset on the beach every day etc. After an unfortunate change of plans, I had to leave early. Although I was bummed about leaving, it opened up a series of events proving “divine timing.” I decided to take a leap and apply to another one of my dream jobs, to work at a ski resort. Surely enough, I packed my bags and moved to Boise, Idaho to work at Bogus Basin.
I told my family about my idea for the small business I’d like to start. After making my first four point beanie from the help from my grandma, who is a master seamstress, I needed to brainstorm some names for my brand. I started by looking up “cool words” and stumbled upon “Fika” and loved the sounds of it. I continued to look Fika up. Turns out, it’s a tradition that Sweden practices. It’s a time to relax, gather with friends and/or family, and appreciate the time they have living on this planet. And that’s what Fika is all about. To appreciate the abilities and the opportunities we have in this life. That’s why I want to share the sport I love most, snowboarding. However, not everyone can afford this expensive hobby. Thankfully, Bogus Basin, a non profit ski recreation area, provides kids who need a little extra help getting up to the mountain. Through their kids scholarship program, these children can live up to their dream with the generosity of Boise’s community through donations. With these donation, kids are able to get lessons, gear, and transportation to experience the stoke of the mountain.
Creating Fika has become about more than just a brand, it’s a celebration of moments, the people we meet, and the moments we share. Each beanie represents connection, gratitude, and giving back. Through Fika, I want to help others experience the same sense of belonging and stoke I feel on the mountain. With every purchase, I’m not just sharing my love for snowboarding, but helping kids experience the joy of the mountain through Bogus Basin’s scholarship program. It’s a reminder that our dreams aren’t just for us they’re for everyone. That’s why Fika is here to ‘Spread the Stoke.’
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Three key factors that have had the greatest impact on my journey are mastering the use of a sewing machine, building a supportive network of friends who’ve helped Fika grow, and the strength of the community that has helped spread Fika. Knowing how to properly operate a sewing machine is essential for achieving the results I envision. I’m especially grateful to my grandma, who stood by my side and taught me how to sew my first Fika piece. Her passion for sewing has truly inspired me to pursue this craft with the same dedication. Beyond her support, my friends have also played a crucial role, helping me get my products into stores. Networking and building connections have been key to Fika’s expansion. I can’t thank the Boise community enough, Fika wouldn’t be where it is today without their support.
To the people who are early into their journey, I would tell them to remind themselves of why you stated your journey. To keep reminding yourself that this was your dream in the past, and now you are here, following your dream. To be present in your journey and give yourself huge credit because it’s not easy starting a brand.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing my parents have done for me is not only their constant support but also the invaluable life lessons they’ve taught me. One lesson that has stuck with me, thanks to my father, is his advice to “save some, spend some, and give some.” This simple but powerful saying has shaped the way I manage my finances and approach life with generosity.
From the very beginning of Fika, my parents have been my biggest cheerleaders. Whether it was helping me navigate the challenges of starting a business or simply offering their encouragement through every decision I’ve made, I’ve always felt their belief in me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/FikaCaps?ref=profile_header
- Instagram: @fikacaps
Image Credits
@legziswerk for picture of me and skate board
@avery.Martin__ for ski picture with mountains
And the rest were taken by me
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
