Today we’d like to introduce you to Wanda Reyes.
Hi Wanda, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
From Tragedy to Triumph: A True Story of Unbreakable Faith
In 1977, I developed Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a rare illness that left me completely paralyzed from head to toe. I spent a year in intensive care before regaining some movement. From there, I was transferred to Rancho Los Amigos Hospital, where I began my rehabilitation and discovered leatherwork as part of therapy. After eight months of living at the rehab center and regaining use of all my extremities, I finally was able to return home and continue therapy while I completely recovered. I still have some issues, but I’ve never let them stop me. I am a woman of strong faith, and I believe God has a purpose for everything.
Years later, I continued with leatherwork as a hobby and made it my own. My designs were loved by many, and whenever I wore one of my accessories, they caused a “scandal”—women adored them! That’s how the name Escándalos evolved. All my pieces are one of a kind, both in leather and metal, created for women who want to be bold, beautiful, and unapologetically unique.
My pieces have been featured in numerous fashion shows in Puerto Rico, as well as Orlando Fashion Week and Kissimmee Fashion Week. I love making women feel empowered, and I believe my jewelry does exactly that—it reminds them of their strength, individuality, and inner beauty.
Through many triumphs, illnesses, and surgeries, I never gave up. What began as therapy became my passion and business—Escándalos, where I create distinctive works of wearable art using leather, mixed media, and metalsmithing.
I am also an award-winning children’s author. My books are inspired by my beloved Goldendoodle service dog, Valentino. He was not only my lifeline—he was a fashion icon with more than 3,500 Instagram followers worldwide. He wore shoes, clothes, and goggles, appeared on calendars, and brought joy to everyone he met. When he passed away, his followers encouraged me to keep his memory alive through storytelling. That’s how my author journey began. Today, I’ve written three children’s books, two of which have won awards.
Through my stories, I share messages of hope, inclusion, kindness, and resilience—celebrating the beauty of being different and the strength that comes from love and faith.
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?
Life hasn’t always been a smooth road. I’ve faced many challenges, including several life-threatening illnesses, multiple surgeries—even cancer—and the heartbreaking loss of many loved ones, including my beloved service dog, Valentino. Yet through it all, I’ve chosen to find purpose in the pain. Every obstacle has taught me something about faith, strength, and compassion, and I now use those experiences to inspire and uplift others.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My specialty lies in touching hearts and making a meaningful difference through my work. Through my art and children’s books, I strive to inspire hope, joy, and empowerment in others. I have found a way to make people happy through what I do—whether it’s through a bold, one-of-a-kind leather or metal accessory that empowers a woman to feel confident and unique, or a story that teaches children the value of kindness, inclusion, and resilience.
What sets me apart is the purpose behind everything I create. Each piece of jewelry, each book, and every project I take on is made with intention and love. I am most proud of seeing the impact my work has on others—the smiles, the encouragement, and the inspiration that ripple outward. My goal is not just to create, but to leave a lasting impression that uplifts, strengthens, and celebrates the beauty of being different and the power of hope.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I hope my story encourages readers to embrace their own strengths, follow their passions, and believe that every challenge can lead to triumph. Above all, I want them to know that hope and love are powerful forces that can carry us through anything life throws our way.
Pricing:
- • One-of-a-Kind Leather Accessories: $50–$300
- • Metalsmith Copper & Silver Jewelry: $75–$500
- • Children’s Special Edition Gift Pack: $25.99
Contact Info:
- Website: www.escandalosbywanda.ecwid.com and www.dtailsbyvalentino.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valentinothegoldendoodle
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/HVe0spd9-YA
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@wandareyesauthor
