Meet the Team: Elysia Guillén
Welcome to the lastest installment of our Meet the Team series, shining a spotlight on the driving force behind Mujeres Makers Market—Elysia Guillén. As our co-founder and dedicated content creator, Elysia brings a passion supporting local businesses and championing entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds.
Join us in getting to know the visionary behind Mujeres Makers Market—Elysia Guillén, a powerhouse dedicated to creativity, community, and cultural celebration.
What do you enjoy most about your role as a Content Creator for Mujeres Makers Market?
Honestly, Meme Mondays have been my favorite thing to create. When I stepped into this role, I wanted our socials to feel like more than just promotion—I wanted people to feel seen, laugh a little, and feel part of something. Memes became the perfect way to do that. They capture real life moments that make us say, “yup, that’s me.” It’s wild how those posts often perform better than anything I plan out. It’s a reminder that connection doesn’t always need polish—it just needs honesty and a sense of humor.
In the world of Meme Mondays, the laughter shared becomes a currency of connection, affirming that in the midst of our diverse experiences, a shared laugh can transcend barriers and bring people together. The resonance these memes find within our community reassures me that, indeed, I'm on the right track in creating content that not only entertains but also forges meaningful connections
Can you tell us about any exciting new projects you may have coming up?
photo credit: Katrina Cohen
I’m counting down the days until I’m back in Pátzcuaro, Michoacán this October to celebrate Día de los Muertos on Isla de Janitzio. My dad is from Michoacán, so going back always feels like coming home. I’ve made it a yearly tradition to bring a framed photo of my abuelitos and spend time honoring them there. It’s emotional, grounding, and reminds me why I do what I do—celebrating heritage, memory, and community. When I get back, I’ll be diving straight into our Día de los Muertos Market with SBTHP, which feels like a full-circle moment every year.
Elysia, you’re passionate about supporting local entrepreneurs and creatives. I wanted to know how you originally got plugged into the maker community in SB and what drives your passion.
La Segunda Estudio was born during the pandemic when I got furloughed from my hospitality job. It started as a dream to curate vintage pieces and ended up opening the door to a whole new community. When Lili (now my co-founder) and I connected, everything just clicked. Through WEV, we met so many talented women and creatives who quickly became family. That network of support inspired Mujeres Makers Market—it showed me how powerful it is when we create spaces that uplift one another.
The journey into the maker community was a revelation, revealing a network of talented mujeres whose unwavering support and camaraderie became a daily source of inspiration. In their collective presence, I found not only a shared passion for creativity but also a resilient spirit that fueled the pursuit of our dreams.
What was your favorite memory about MMM?
Hands down, our first Día de los Muertos Market in 2021. We built a giant marigold arch the night before, running on caffeine and excitement. Seeing the community ofrenda inside El Presidio Chapel surrounded by families, vendors, and music—it was magic. It felt like everything we envisioned came to life: honoring tradition, uplifting local makers, and celebrating together.
photo credit: Katrina Cohen
Where do you see yourself in five years?
(Libra here, so plans change weekly 😅) But I hope to see Mujeres Makers Market grow into more than just a market—a space for workshops, cultural experiences, and deeper connection. I’d love to keep blending creativity and community through nonprofit work, while continuing to grow La Segunda Estudio. And hopefully still traveling, collecting stories, and finding inspiration in every place I visit.
Elysia, alongside her husband and daughter, photographed by Daniel Gonzales
Balancing multiple roles—mother, vintage business owner, hospitality employee, and content creator—how do you manage it all?
Some days it’s a juggling act, but flexibility and boundaries are everything. My hospitality jobs give me room to stay creative and still provide stability. And honestly, my husband’s support keeps me grounded—he’s my biggest cheerleader and reality check rolled into one. I’ve learned to protect my time and give myself grace when things get chaotic.
photo credit: Summer Dalton of Tiger Owl
How can people find you? What’s the best way to check out all your magic?
You can find me on Instagram @lasegundaestudio or browse my curated vintage finds at lasegundaestudio.com. In person, I pop up at Mujeres Makers Market, Farmer & the Flea, Dart Garden Market, and you can shop my collection year-round at Lazy Eye Shop in Old Town Goleta.
