Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariella Ortuno
Hi Mariella, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My name is Mariella Ortuno, and I’m 25 years old. I was born in Miami, Florida, but spent most of my childhood in Honduras. I come from a large family and was raised in a close-knit, family-oriented environment, which has always been the most important aspect of my life. I am deeply grateful for my parents and grandparents, who worked hard to provide us with education and a good life. Their unwavering support has shaped who I am today.
In 2014, at the age of 15, my family made the difficult decision to move from Honduras to the United States for safety reasons. Although my childhood in Honduras was filled with wonderful memories, the increasing danger in the country forced us to leave. After several traumatic events, including multiple break-ins at our home, we relocated to Miami, Florida.
Moving to the U.S. was both exciting and challenging. It was difficult to adjust to a new culture and way of life, especially after leaving extended family behind. My father was the only one able to work initially, while my sister and I attended school, and my mother stayed home without legal status. After struggling to adapt in Miami and experiencing additional hardships, including the loss of a close family member, we moved to Orlando, Florida. There, I completed high school, met incredible people from all over the world, and my parents opened their own business.
In 2018, after graduating high school, I decided to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice. Initially considering UCLA, I eventually moved to Dallas, Texas, where I began my studies and met my current boyfriend. This move marked the beginning of my adult life. I got my first job, lived on my own for the first time, and embraced the challenges and excitement of independence.
In 2020, during the financial struggles of the COVID-19 pandemic, I founded a small business, Sugar Bistro, inspired by my passion for baking. I started with the viral Cocoa Bombs and expanded to offering treats for parties and events. Although Sugar Bistro isn’t my full-time job yet, I aspire to have my brand recognized nationwide, open my own bakery, and give back to my community.
After six years in Dallas, I now live with my partner, hold a degree in Criminal Justice, and have gained valuable experience working with the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field. I am currently pursuing a career in government related to my field of study. In addition, I’ve ventured into social media, creating lifestyle content and partnering with amazing brands, which has opened new opportunities for me.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My journey has been shaped by a series of challenges that have tested my resilience and determination. At 15, my family and I were forced to leave Honduras due to escalating dangers, leaving behind the comfort of our home and extended family. The transition to life in the United States was difficult—adapting to a new culture, navigating financial hardships with only my father able to work, and dealing with the emotional toll of losing a close family member. These early struggles taught me the importance of perseverance and adaptability.
Starting my adult life in Dallas, Texas, came with its own set of challenges. Living on my own for the first time, balancing work and studies, and carving out a path in a new city were all demanding. In 2020, amid the financial uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, I faced the challenge of starting my own business, Sugar Bistro. Building a brand during such a tumultuous time was daunting, but I pushed forward, driven by my passion for baking. Juggling the responsibilities of running a business, pursuing a career in Criminal Justice, and creating content on social media has been overwhelming at times, but each struggle has strengthened my resolve to achieve my goals.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Sugar Bistro ?
Sugar Bistro, my small business, was founded in 2020 during the pandemic. What started as a simple venture selling the viral Cocoa Bombs quickly gained popularity, particularly as people sought to recreate TikTok trends. Attending small events and farmers markets allowed me to showcase my treats, and the positive response encouraged me to expand my menu to include chocolate-covered strawberries, various desserts, and anything that could be beautifully crafted with chocolate.
Baking has been a passion of mine since childhood, inspired by my mother who taught me how to bake my first cake and create my family’s favorite desserts. What sets Sugar Bistro apart is not just my dedication and perfectionism, but the detail and love I infuse into every treat. To me, baking is an art form, and I take pride in ensuring that every dessert reflects that.
I am incredibly proud of how much Sugar Bistro has grown. I never imagined that selling Cocoa Bombs during the pandemic would open doors to creating treats for events like birthday parties and baby showers. The relationships I’ve built with clients, who continue to trust me with their special occasions, have been incredibly rewarding.
I want people to experience the joy that Sugar Bistro’s incredible treats bring. My goal is to be a part of their special moments. We offer a wide range of treats, including custom creations that may not be on the menu, tailored to any theme and event. I look forward to continuing to grow and share my passion for baking with more people.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
If you’re interested in working with me, collaborating, or supporting my ventures, you can connect with me on social media. My main platforms are TikTok (@maryortuno) and Instagram (@maryortuno02), where I post lifestyle videos. For updates and more about my business, Sugar Bistro, you can follow us on Instagram at @sugarbistro. I’d love to hear from you and explore potential collaborations!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryortuno02/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@maryortuno?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
