Life Asset celebrates the success of our clients, and this quarter we are highlighting Andrea Hernandez and Raquel Aparicio, owners of P&Y Studio Creativo, a graphic design studio based in Silver Spring, Maryland. With an eye for colorful and eye-catching compositions, P&Y offers a full spectrum of marketing, branding, and event services including design and installation of backdrops and sets for your public, private, or business events. P&Y was started in 2023 by Andrea and Raquel who dreamed of starting their own graphic design business.
Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Andrea was inspired to start a business after finding herself “trapped in the daily grind” of a typical 9-to-5 job. As a native of Bogotá, Colombia, she was looking for an opportunity that provided greater flexibility to travel and experience all that living in the U.S. has to offer. Soon thereafter, she and her college friend Raquel – originally from Spain – decided to build on their mutual interest in graphic design by starting P&Y Studio. The name of their business reflects their love of bold and vibrant designs: P&Y is short for purple and yellow, their two favorite colors.
Andrea notes that being from another country, she was unfamiliar with the requirements to start and successfully manage a business in the DC area. Over time, she learned a variety of skills including how to use new techniques and materials, how to work with contractors, and how to navigate the logistics of delivering a project on time and on budget. Andrea also credits Life Asset for providing the financial and training support that helped she and Raquel grow a successful business. They were introduced to Life Asset through outreach by Martha Leuro, our Small Business Lending and Development Specialist. Life Asset’s microlending services helped the pair purchase necessary tools and equipment, and our networking opportunities helped them build relationships with other entrepreneurs in the area. Life Asset’s training workshops enabled them to develop the skills necessary to successfully manage and grow their business including how to start their business, manage bookkeeping and taxes, and determine which legal business structure is right for an individual business’ needs. When asked about her goals for the future, Andrea says that she anticipates steady growth that will require P&Y to hire permanent employees and secure dedicated workspace for their expanding portfolio.
For others considering starting a business, Andrea says that when you are doing what you love,
“The challenges don’t feel like a sacrifice.”
Additionally, being a non-native English speaker, Andrea dedicated time to becoming more proficient in her language skills. For others in a similar situation, Andrea’s advice is to practice your language skills, trust in what you are saying, and be confident that your own knowledge will overcome any communication challenges.
The vibrant transformation of El Sapo, a Cuban restaurant in Silver Spring, MD, brought to life by the talented team at P&Y Studio Creativo. This redesign project features stunning murals and intricate wall and ceiling installations, all meticulously crafted by the visionary designers.
