Today we’d like to introduce you to Angelica Gomez
Hi Angelica, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey in the U.S. began four years ago when I moved from Bogotá, Colombia, to co-found a tequila brand in St. Johns County. At the time, I was working as a sales manager for Marriott in Colombia, which shaped my experience in sales, business development, and marketing. Although the tequila project didn’t work out as planned, it provided me with valuable lessons about adapting to new markets and environments.
After that experience, I relocated to Miami and started an e-commerce brand specializing in sustainable clothing made in Colombia. Simultaneously, I partnered with a close friend who now owns one of the biggest locally owned cleaning companies in Jacksonville. Our collaboration led to the creation of Manifiesta Marketing Consulting. What began as small consultations quickly evolved through word of mouth into a full-scale marketing agency dedicated to helping small businesses, particularly those in the home services industry.
Manifiesta is more than just a business to me—it’s a platform for empowering others. My team, mostly made up of women, has been instrumental in our success. Together, we help small business owners, especially latin entrepreneurs, develop strong, sustainable brands that resonate with their customers and stand out in competitive markets.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like most entrepreneurial journeys, mine has had its challenges. Moving from Colombia to the U.S. brought cultural and market differences that I had to learn quickly. When the tequila project didn’t succeed, it was a tough but necessary lesson in resilience and adaptability.
Transitioning into marketing also presented challenges. Small businesses, especially those with limited budgets, can be hesitant to invest in marketing. My task was to show them that building a brand is a long-term commitment, and it takes trust and patience. Additionally, navigating the cultural complexities of being a Latina businesswoman in a new country brought its own set of hurdles, but those experiences also helped me grow stronger.
I’ve faced prejudice along the way, but instead of letting it define me, I used those experiences to fuel my drive. I’m grateful for the support of the Jacksonville community, which helped me build something meaningful here. Every challenge reinforced the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and remaining focused on long-term goals.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m deeply committed to helping small businesses succeed, especially in the home services industry. At Manifiesta Consulting, we focus on digital marketing and branding to create lasting, meaningful connections between brands and their audiences.
We provide a range of services, from social media management and content creation to Google and Meta ads, graphic design, and web design. What makes us unique is our personalized approach—we craft tailored strategies that fit each business’s needs and budget. Our guiding principle, “If you grow, we grow,” drives us to build solid foundations and support our clients every step of the way.
I’m truly proud of the strong relationships we’ve built and the real impact we’ve made on our clients’ businesses. Empowering female entrepreneurs and supporting local businesses is at the heart of what we do. Watching our clients thrive and grow is the greatest reward for me and my team.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice is to be patient and persistent. Building a business doesn’t happen overnight, and establishing a solid foundation takes time. I’ve learned that success comes from understanding your audience/clients and creating a plan that aligns with their needs. It’s crucial to be intentional about who you want your ideal clients to be and how you present your brand from the start.
Getting involved in your community is another piece of advice I would offer. Collaboration with local businesses and entrepreneurs can open doors you might not expect. In Jacksonville, for example, I’ve found incredible female support systems through local initiatives and partnerships, which have helped many businesses grow organically.
Finally, surround yourself with the right people. Whether it’s a strong team, mentors, or collaborators, having people who believe in your vision is invaluable. And don’t be afraid to invest in your brand early on. Branding isn’t just about a logo; it’s about building an identity that reflects your values and connects with your audience. A well-thought-out brand strategy can make all the difference in your long-term success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.manifiestaco.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manifiesta_co/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Manifiestaconsultingfl
- Other: https://linktr.ee/ManifiestaConsulting
