Today we’d like to introduce you to Cristian Marquina.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Hi! My name is Cristian! I was born and raised in Lima, Peru. I moved to the US about 16 years ago with no money but a lot of dreams. I studied Hospitality Management and have been working in the hospitality business for the last 20 years. I always had this dream… to start my own business. I had an apparel business a few years ago that did not go well. I was very frustrated and kept searching for opportunities to build income beyond my job as a server.
A co-worker presented me a car-sharing marketplace where he was renting his own car to get an extra income. I’ve been a Car fan my entire life. So I saw a business opportunity for myself in the Car Rental Business. I started doing some research and decided to buy my first car back in 2017. A Convertible Ford Mustang. And I thought, if the Mustang goes well, I will buy another car! After just a couple of months of consistent bookings, I bought a second car and then a third car. With my background in hospitality, customer service was definitely the difference why people start to call me. I offer delivery and pick up at the airport, hotel, or vacation home so clients don’t have to wait in lines to get a car regardless of what time they arrive or leave. Unlike the big car rental companies when my client arrives they know exactly which car will be waiting for them. I love to serve; I speak English, Spanish and Portuguese and treat every single client as part of my family. Today I have my own fleet with a portfolio of cars that goes from an Economic sedan to a Luxury Sports Car serving people from all over the world that comes to visit Orlando.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Starting any business is challenging. I have been very blessed but definitely not a smooth road! As an immigrant, I had a lot to learn. For me what I struggle with the most is the administrative part, like accounting, taxes, etc. I like to be with people, give them tips about the city, surrounded areas, and attractions. But having your own business is more than that. My wife has a big part in the business and helps me a lot with those subjects. She also takes care of all my social media platforms. When the Pandemic started to really affect travel and everyday life in March 2020, I definitely noticed the slowdown. But at the same time, locals started to book my cars, especially the convertibles, to do something different and safe with their families. So it is always about adjustments, being creative and patient.
Any big plans?
I always knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur and start by doing something I love is really fun. A few of my future goals include growing the car fleet, keep serving the community and tourists and expand to other cities.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @trinusrentacar
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/trinusrentacar
