Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Rivera.
Hi Melissa, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always been into a healthy lifestyle and fitness; the gym tends to be a source of therapy. My life completely changed when I was 31 and diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. I made a promise to myself that if I made it out alive, I was going to use my story to encourage others. I continued as much of a healthy lifestyle throughout intense treatments, and numerous surgical procedures and I can only guess the number of medications. One day, sitting in that chemo chair, slightly spaced out and drugged up, I thought “how can I inspire others, how can I make a difference”? I shrugged it off and didn’t give it much more thought. Fast forward to 2 years later, finally done with all my treatments and surgeries, now thinking “how do I move on?”, everyone thinks when you’re in remission, life just moves on as if nothing ever happened, what many don’t know is life after cancer is a long tough road. No more doctor visits, no more treatment, you’re just pushed back out to the world and expected to seamlessly move forward in life. I received so many positive responses to my shares on social media and thought, why not put my two passions together – love of fitness and Inspiring others. . . I was sitting there at the kitchen counter trying to come up with an impactful name, something that was meaningful, and that’s where LV8 was born! Elevate means to bring one to a higher level, that’s exactly what I wanted to do. I took my love of fitness wear and set out to find quality products without high-end pricing. I want to provide pieces that make customers feel confident and empowered. So many long/late nights, so many roadblocks, and failed samples, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. We celebrated our one-year anniversary and this is just the start. We’re constantly building and expanding the line.
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?
Not a smooth road, there’s been a significant amount of funds spent on failed samples. The material was off or the company’s vision didn’t align with mine. We switched website carriers, payment portals failed, and banks denied us. We had numerous vendors bail last minute, shipping delays, and more.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
We’re an active and athliesure wear company. We specialize in quality pieces without high-end prices. We pride ourselves on helping others build self-confidence and empowerment while taking on the daily demands of life. Our goal is to inspire everyone that no matter your situation, you will get through it. Being that we’re owned by a woman who endured one of life’s toughest moments, we understand how hard it can be to have a positive outlook on life, be confident, and have self-worth. Society tries to portray what the perfect woman should look and act like, but we go against societal norms. We want women to be who they want to be and do what they want while feeling fearless in our line!
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My mom played a part in assisting with testing samples, sorting, packing, etc. I’ve had many cheerleaders along the way including my brother and now fiancé. Being a business owner himself, my father helped navigate some of the more technical pieces such as websites, online stores, and banking.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lv8apparelco.com
- Instagram: www.Instagram.com/lv8apparel
