Today we’d like to introduce you to Krystal Berrios.
Hi Krystal, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’m Krystal, a Christian, a mother, teacher, entrepreneur and firm believer in letting your confidence shine. I built a small business/brand called Alba Inspired. It is dedicated to providing products and resources that help children build confidence, self-love and positive self-esteem. This will enable them to create beautiful moments and meaningful connections with those around them, leading them to a fulfilling and successful journey through life.
Alba Inspired was born from a deep unexpected personal loss, my mother. As life changing and devastating to the family it was, it sparked a fierce determination in me to create something lasting for my family and the world. My mom was my sounding board and had so much wisdom that always got me through the tough times. She didn’t have much, but was so very generous with what she had. She dedicated her entire life to my sister and I. Being with family always fulfilled her and, though she wasn’t perfect (none of us moms are), she was the best example of a caring mother for me and I always strive to be that for my own little family.
As a mom and teacher myself, I’ve seen firsthand the struggles kids face with fear, low self-esteem and little to no confidence. More and more we are seeing a significant increase in emotional and mental health issues in kids and teens. Dealing with some of these issues with my own son, I knew I could use this entrepreneurial journey to help him, and other mom’s to encourage their struggling children. Alba Inspired has allowed me to continue my mother’s legacy of service and generosity to others and will help bless my community and beyond!
My mission is to create a community that is a safe space for moms with kids and teens who struggle emotionally to feel empowered, encouraged and supported through the journey of motherhood.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Absolutely not! Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart. Especially if you don’t have a business or marketing background. I’ve had to really dig deep within me to find the purpose of what I was doing and constant prayers for guidance on the next right step and keeping me consistent. Life itself is a giant rollercoaster anyway, so why not throw something completely foreign to you on top of it!
Of course, one of the biggest challenges was the monetary investment needed to start the business. We were on 1 income at the time and all I had was my mom’s small inheritance. So I prayed that God would help me find the perfect product that I could improve and innovate on, that it would something I can relate to and be passionate about and most importantly, since I’d be using my mom’s hard earned money to start with, that it would not be in vain but instead, be a blessing that goes far and wide.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
During the day, I’m a pre-k and kindergarten teacher. I focus on making sure my classroom of 4, 5 and 6 year olds is learning to be independent, develop good communication skills, know how to identify their emotions and how to regulate them when they are struggling. Teaching social skills and how to be kind and empathetic comes first, academics comes second in my classroom. I strive to have an open and consistent communication with the parents so that we can work together, as a team, to help their child be the best that he/she can be. It has truly been an honor and privilege to be a part of the nurturing, learning and growth of each of my students.
By night, I spend time working on my small business. I brainstorm and plan the tasks I need to do to move the needle a little bit more. I often spend time thinking of creative ways to bring awareness to my brand using social media and ideas to get more of my product in people’s hands. Speaking of products…
My flagship products are glow in the dark blankets that are unique and special. Currently, I created 3 designs: Space, Butterfly and Dinosaur.
Here are the top features that set mine apart from my competitors and have my customers raving about them:
1. XL size throw blanket (59″X71″ catering to kids and teens of all sizes, even adults!)
2. Super soft material (300GSM, thick enough to keep you warm but lightweight enough for traveling)
3. Includes words of affirmation on them to comfort any child who is afraid of the dark or the teenager that needs a constant reminder of how awesome and special they are.
4. Includes a mini-UV flashlight (requires 3-AAA batteries/NOT included) to instantly bring the blanket to life by coloring with light. It’s a very soothing experience. However, the blanket will glow on is own when exposed to natural sunlight.
5. Machine Washable (wash separately, cold water, tumble dry low)
6. Packaged perfectly for gift-giving, especially for birthdays and special occasions!
My lifelong job is being a mother to my 2 sons (ages 11 and 13). So besides being their #1 supporter and free uber driver to all the extracurriculars, they are my top priority! I focus in raising them to be kind and respectful humans. I challenge them to be firm in who they are and what makes them special. I pray they stay strong in their morals and values and most importantly, to always be a positive light for others. Of course it’s easier said than done and it takes a lot of work, practice, grace, discipline and love before you start seeing the fruits of your labor but it’s one of the most rewarding thing to witness. I’m so proud of my sons and of who they are starting to become.
I think what most people often tell me is that I always seem to be positive even when I’m struggling. That I inspire them to try new things and not be afraid to follow their dreams. After dealing with obesity (and other health issues) for almost 20 years, I have officially shed 100lbs! It’s been a long process but I’m feeling great and people are noticing. I want to continue to be a beacon of hope for people and just being real about my struggles and how I get through them. My faith is what keeps me going and I know that I would not have been able to accomplish anything without God. So if I can inspire people to stick with it through the ups and downs, I’d be so honored.
What were you like growing up?
I was always a happy-go-lucky kind of kid. Things seemed to rub off easily and most people remember me as bubbly and always smiling. I was a peacemaker and avoided conflict all the time. People thought I wasn’t paying attention or tuned things out but I was listening. I was just afraid to speak up or say the wrong thing. I wasn’t great at school and had many struggles with keeping up with homework unless it was a hands-on activity. I was great at masking and if I just had the teacher on my good side, I’d at least pass the class or get the teacher to show some grace. I realize now, in my adulthood and through my son’s diagnosis, that I had ADHD and didn’t have the proper resources or accommodations to help me be successful at the time. It just wasn’t a thing back then’ especially for girls. I loved being creative, watching movies, acting/drama, listening, singing and playing music (still do!) and loved to laugh and be silly. I was a social butterfly and loved working with kids (guess my teaching career was a calling since a very young age huh?). I tried to make sure that every interaction was positive and that I represented myself well in spite of obstacles or what ever negative thing was happening internally.
Pricing:
- 30.95
- Shop at my website: www.albainspired.com
- Use code SPRING30 to get 30% off
- Discount code will run until May 31, 2025
- Customers can use the code up to 3 times during the promotion window.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.albainspired.com
- Instagram: @alba.inspired
- Facebook: /albainspired
- Other: https://linktr.ee/alba.inspired?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=fb3bcae0-0fad-445c-91b6-cf7605003152
Image Credits
Hannah Midkiff Photography
Andrea Zaidilie Photography
Kersey Commercial
