Reyna Orellana Masko shares insight into the creation of Reyna's Michelada Mix and how her Hispanic heritage drives her passion for excellence and community engagement.
If you've ever had a Michelada—a Mexican cocktail sometimes referred to as the "Mexican Bloody Mary"—you know just how delicious they are. Full of flavor, the cocktail usually includes ingredients like beer, lime juice, assorted sauces, spices and chili peppers—all served in a chilled, salt-or tajin-rimmed glass. But did you know there's a local business creating their own Michelada mix?
Reyna Orellana Masko, Founder & CEO of Aurora International Foods, chatted with us about the creation of Reyna's Michelada Mix, in addition to owning and leading a woman- and minority-owned business in West Michigan.
West Michigan Woman: What inspired you to create Reyna's Michelada Mix, and how does it reflect your personal connection to your Hispanic heritage? Can you share more about your journey from passion to product?
Reyna Orellana Masko: The inspiration for Reyna's Michelada Mix stems from a deep-rooted connection to my Hispanic heritage and a lifelong passion for bringing people together through food and drink. My mother, Aurora, was the heart and soul of our family, and her ability to unite us with her culinary creations was truly remarkable. She had a knack for creating dishes that were both comforting and flavorful, drawing us all closer together.
Growing up, I spent countless hours watching my mother in the kitchen. Her passion was contagious, and it ignited a similar fire within me. I realized that food was more than just sustenance; it was a way to connect with others on a profound level. It was a language that transcended words and cultures, fostering a sense of belonging and shared experiences. Aurora International Foods is a tribute to my mother's legacy and a testament to the power of family, tradition, and the unifying force of food and drink.
Micheladas, a Mexican beverage and staple in the Latin American community, have always held a special place in my heart. They are more than just a drink; they are a symbol of camaraderie, celebration and cultural identity. The vibrant flavors, the refreshing tang, and the satisfying kick of spice make them a truly unique and enjoyable experience. I envisioned creating a Michelada Mix that would capture my passion for culture and people and bring the joy of this beloved beverage to a wider audience.
With Reyna's Michelada Mix, I aim to bridge the gap between cultures and introduce a taste of Latin American heritage to a broader market. I believe that by sharing this delicious and authentic beverage, I can help people connect with my Latin culture and foster a deeper appreciation for the diversity of flavors and traditions that exist in the world.
Just as my mother's cooking brought us together as a family, I hope that Reyna's Michelada Mix will serve as a catalyst for connection and community. Whether it's enjoyed at a backyard barbecue, a casual gathering, or a festive celebration, I envision people coming together to savor the flavors, share stories and create lasting memories.
Reyna's Michelada Mix is more than just a product; it is a reflection of my personal journey, a tribute to my mother, and a celebration of the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our world. I am excited to share this passion project with the world and invite everyone to experience the joy and camaraderie that comes with enjoying a truly exceptional and delicious Michelada.
WMW: How does Reyna's Michelada Mix differentiate itself from other Michelada mixes on the market?
ROM: Reyna's Michelada Mix sets itself apart from competitors by prioritizing natural, wholesome ingredients. While many other mixes rely on artificial additives like corn syrup, dyes, and preservatives, Reyna's is crafted from scratch using all-natural, vegan and non-GMO components. This commitment to quality ensures a superior flavor profile that is free from harmful chemicals and artificial elements. As a result, consumers can enjoy a Michelada that is not only delicious but also healthier and authentic.
WMW: What does it mean to you to have received recognition from Start Garden's 100 Ideas Competition, a grant from the Michigan Hispanic Chamber and to become WEBENC certified? How have these achievements impacted your business?
ROM: These recent achievements represent significant milestones for our Michelada Mix business. Being selected for the Start Garden 100 Ideas Competition validates our innovative approach to the Michelada market and provides a platform to showcase our exciting new product line. The grant from the Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will directly fuel our growth by enabling us to increase inventory and expand our reach. Additionally, obtaining WBENC certification opens doors to a vast network of support, business opportunities, and programs that will help us scale our operations. This recognition solidifies our position as a legitimate and thriving business, inspiring confidence in our brand and positioning us for continued success.
WMW: What are your plans for the future of Reyna's Michelada Mix?
ROM: Reyna's Michelada Mix is committed to expanding its product line. We plan to introduce a variety of new flavors and innovative products that will elevate the Michelada experience. By continually evolving our offerings, we aim to stay ahead of industry trends and provide our customers with a unique and exciting selection of Michelada mixes. Our future vision includes becoming a household name and the go-to choice for those seeking authentic and flavorful Michelada creations.
WMW: What advice would you give to other aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those from Hispanic backgrounds, looking to launch their own products?
ROM: I would advise aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those from Hispanic backgrounds, to conduct thorough research before launching their products. Identify your competition, analyze their offerings and determine the optimal pricing strategy to ensure profitability. Seek out organizations and networks that support entrepreneurs, as they can provide invaluable guidance and resources. Leverage the abundant opportunities available in your community to foster growth and success in your entrepreneurial journey.
WMW: Where can folks in West Michigan find your products?
ROM: We are currently in 20 Meijer stores in the lakeshore and Grand Rapids area, Dockside Market (Holland), Itty Bitty Bar (Holland), Burzurk's Brewing Company (Grand Haven), City Built Brewing Company (Grand Rapids) and Supermercado La Victoria (Grand Rapids). Soon, we'll be coming to Total Wine & More (Grand Rapids), and at the end of October, we will be expanding to 46 Meijer stores in the east side of the state from the Kalamazoo to Detroit area. You can also buy our products on our website.
WMW: Anything additional you'd like to add that we haven't touched on?
ROM: I am the co-founder and co-chair of Tri-Cities Puentes Initiative, a non-profit organization that builds bridges between the Hispanic Community and the lakeshore and West Michigan area. We host the Grand Haven Hispanic Heritage Fiesta every year. This year, the Fiesta will take place on September 21, 2024 at the Lynnewood Waterfront Stadium in Grand Haven.
Edited by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
Photo Courtesy of Isabel Media Studios.
