Another week, another local Tahoe woman taking the wedding industry by storm. This week, we’re chatting to the dynamic Mountain Vibes Rentals owner, Mari Orlando.
With a life motto of “everything is figureoutable,” Mari leads by example. She decided to trade a law career for interior design and figured out how to do it successfully. Not only does Mari specialize in personalized event rentals for elopements, micro weddings, and celebrations, but she creates and collects exciting pieces. Think gorgeous vignettes, vintage rugs, goblets, unique ceremony arches, and beautifully stylized lounges. Inspired by her own Tahoe elopement, Mari is proud to have become someone she wished she would have hired when she eloped 12 years ago. Although becoming an entrepreneur wasn’t her first choice, it gave her the freedom to be creative and show her kids the meaning of hard work from an early age. Read further to discover how she differentiates herself in this challenging industry and what advice she would give to women starting their businesses.
Why did you decide to become an entrepreneur?
It wasn’t my first option. After earning a Juris Doctor degree, I decided to pursue a Master of Public Administration at UNR. And then it hit me that I was pretty tired of studying. I felt the need to be creative and find a profession where I could create my hours, be my own boss and take on projects if they were interesting. I understand how privileged it is even to have this option. On top of that, I became a mom, and after quick math, I realized I would have to make a good income to pay for child care.
What challenges did you face along the way, and how did you overcome them?
Child care in our area is a huge problem. I take my kids to many meetings or deliveries with me. I like to think I’m teaching them what hard work looks like. The other problem was to find the availability of warehouse space. I waited over three years to find my dream location.
How do you differentiate yourself in this challenging industry?
I will only take on a few clients, so I have the time and energy to create. As a consequence, I believe my work is unique, and it always reflects the couples.
What or who has been the most significant influence in your business and why?
Meeting other exemplary women, like Yeliz at the Hytch (another immigrant like me) and Stephanie from One Fine Day Events (a mom of two boys).
Do you listen to podcasts or read motivational books, and if so, which ones do you recommend?
Yes! We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle and Financial Feminist ft. Tori Dunlap.
What advice would you give to women who are interested in starting their own business?
Find or create your own support system and continue with your education. Nowadays, it doesn’t mean going back to University – YouTube and Tiktok have incredible content.
Check out Mountain Vibes Rentals’ vendor profile here! And stay tuned for more entrepreneurial journeys coming your way over the next few weeks.
CREDITS
Mountain Vibes Rentals / Ashleigh Marie Photography / Kendall Town / Kendall Town / AAli Boundy / Meg’s Marvels / Ashleigh Marie Photography / Shane Fellows Photography / Ashleigh Marie Photography / Madi Wagner Photographer / Ash Jacobs Photography
