Sweet Penelope Story
How is Sonia?
Founder and creative of Sweet Penelope
My story is a journey of passion, faith, and love. I am a Cuban woman who, from a young age, found a unique form of expression in fashion design. Using recycled materials, I brought garments to life that reflected my personality and creativity. At the age of 22, I fled Cuba by boat without my family's knowledge and arrived in the United States. My journey to this country was motivated by a dream I had held since I was very young.
The beginnings were not easy. I faced numerous challenges and unfamiliar situations, but I was always grateful to God for every door that opened for me. Initially, I worked in house cleaning while studying Cosmetology, a skill I had learned from my mother in Cuba. After 2 and a half years in the U.S., without being able to even say 'good morning,' my English was nonexistent. Then, Marriott gave me the opportunity to work at the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne, first in housekeeping and then as a cosmetologist in the spa. For me, it was not just a job; it felt like the university God wanted me to attend to continue growing and to reach the places He knew I wanted to be. At the Ritz Carlton, I met my husband, and we have been married for 14 years, blessed with two children, Sebastian and Penelope.
I am Catholic, and my faith and deep love for my family have been my pillars. These values gave me the strength to face each obstacle and keep the flame of hope alive. I was determined to improve not only my own life but also the lives of those I love.
In the year 2021, inspired by my immense love for my daughter Penelope and with divine guidance telling me God will take care of your path and your purpose, I founded Sweet Penelope. In December 2022, my brand was approved by Marriott to start selling in their resorts, and I am extremely confident this is not a coincidence, this is Godfidence.
My journey has not been easy, but each overcome obstacle has been a victory that has brought me closer to my dreams. My story is a testament that, with hard work, faith, and love, dreams can become reality. I want to inspire others to believe in themselves, to fight for their goals, and to remember that our origin does not define our destiny—our will and effort do.