Have you ever felt stuck in a 9-5 job that wasn’t bringing you any purpose in life? What did you do about it? Dora Molina combined her love for fashion with her need to make a positive impact in the world and started The Charity Wrap. “I wasn’t leaving behind any footprints and I definitely wasn’t out there changing anything for the better, Dora explains. “I was just another employee working for a company that also wasn’t making a difference with their influence. I wanted to be part of the positive change in my community, so in the spring of 2014, The Charity Wrap was born!”
The Charity Wrap features scarves, ponchos and Falsa Blankets (which help provide the artisan community The Charity Wrap works with in El Salvador with fair wages and full time jobs- all while still giving back to charitable organizations in the U.S.) and all of them are super gorgeous with vibrant colours and amazing textile yet simple and elegant so that everyone can pull them off. “A scarf, a kimono, a poncho–all major accessories that make bold statements with their vibrant colours and flow,” Dora expresses. “And blankets because, who doesn’t need a blanket that only gets better through the years and can be used as an accessory at the beach and your home? The answer is everyone–everyone needs one.”
With empowering those who have been battered, abused the pushing factor behind the brand, 20% from every purchase will be donated to 1 out of the 4 organizations of your choice, that The Charity Wrap work with. “There’s something very beautiful that happens when I mention to someone that 20% of their purchase benefits the fight against domestic violence or breast cancer research. All of a sudden we’re connecting and [people are] willingly to telling me about how they survived and escaped spousal abuse. Or their sister won a battle against breast cancer,” Dora shares. “All of a sudden we’re connecting on a very deep level. Everyone has a charity that is dear to their heart for any reason. It could be cancer, homelessness, domestic violence (the list is endless) but the second that we mention it out loud we break the silence and strive to make a difference together. That’s why there’s a variety and why customers are encouraged to choose the one that touches their heart.”
With every great idea, and every entrepreneurial adventure, comes a lot of patience and hard work, especially if you’re truly passionate about the causes you’re supporting. Dora explains; “My biggest struggles were finding different and creative ways to market my new company. We have an over-saturation of information that we have to funnel through on a daily basis and sometimes it’s hard to get your brand in the forefront - or even the middle! In terms of starting a new company, the operations part is easy. It’s the actual brand recognition and selling part that’s really hard–especially for an e-commerce store. It’s definitely frustrating because I believe in my product and in the causes The Charity Wrap supports so I really, really wanted people to know and love the brand.” But even with the tough and scary times Dora had to face, there is nothing more exciting than starting something that is all your own and seeing it grow. This is why Dora encourages anyone who has the entrepreneurial spirit to go for it; “It’s all about believing in yourself and your product or service. You’re going to have people tell you “no” and you’re also going to have people who completely ignore your emails and calls. Don’t let these minor hiccups keep you from moving forward. Will it be easy? Nope–it’ll be really hard. Will it be worth it? You betcha’ it will!”
Dora persevered and pushed through her entrepreneurial struggles and now The Charity Wrap is reaping the benefits of her endurance; “Since starting up in 2014, we have been able to donate over $4000.00 to various non-profits. In 2015, we were able to donate over 150 backpacks and school supplies to underprivileged children in El Salvador for their school year.” 2016 is looking even bigger and better with new experiences and adventures ready to conquer!
Dora’s personal picks from The Charity Wrap: “I’ll definitely have to go with any of the kimonos because I LOVE how they flow and they’re just so comfortable! And the blankets! They’re so perfect for any weather- spring picnics, summer beach bon-fires, and cozy winter nights.”
Babe tip for poncho first-timers: Go for softer colour tones or solids if you don’t want to draw too much attention with colours and patterns. And if you’re concerned with how to style a scarf, go for the infinity styles. They’re quick and easy- just throw it on and you’re good to go!
Babe tip for using a scarf during the warmer weather: “In the summer, one of my favorite things to do with a scarf is use it as a sarong at the beach or pool. I get to use the vibrant colors and lightweight textile as a beach cover up. I’ll also use the scarves as fancy and extra-long head wraps over my pony tail or braid. You could still wear the ponchos during the summertime! Nights always tend to be chillier so you can just leave one in your car and use it as a throw while inside a movie theater or at an outdoor summer concert. It’s your accessory–be creative!”
