OUR CORE VALUES

Community

Connection

Compassion

Cooperation

Community building and mutual aid are essential to creating a better world.

We are passionate about community care and building connections that help create safer spaces for all community members.

  • Co-Founder

    Food and my Mexican roots have influenced every form of artistic expression going forward and still do to this very day. My mediums as an artist are acrylic painting, mixology, cooking, and digital art.

    Growing up in such a vibrant Latino community fueled my creativity and eventually led me to become an artist. The strength and resilience of my grandmother and mother have always been my guiding lights, inspiring me to overcome challenges and embrace my heritage with pride.

    I met my husband of 12 years, Raymond, at just 20 years old. After living in Chicago our entire lives, in 2019 we decided to move to our new favorite city, Phoenix, AZ, where we reside alongside our precious English bulldog Arya and our two black cats.

    My career in the hospitality and restaurant industry have deeply influenced my path. Leading me to co-creating La Santa Sips. One of the first concepts under the umbrella of Are and Be Hospitality.

    I approach everything with whole heartedness and kindness, at all costs.

  • Co-Founder

    Mel is a Phoenix native and co-creator of La Santa Sips. Balancing the roles of Mom to three spirited children, a dedicated professional in the hospitality industry, and a passionate advocate for mutual aid, she has cultivated a unique blend of skills and emotional depth.

    Through her own journey with addiction and sobriety, she has transformed her life into a beacon of hope and resilience.

    Her experiences have taught her the importance of connection and community, as she actively works to break the cycles of escapism that often accompany addiction.

    Embracing authenticity and mindfulness, she finds healing in nature. Whether it’s spending cherished moments by the river, soaking in the rejuvenating embrace of hot springs, or embarking on invigorating hikes, these experiences ground her and remind her of the beauty in life.

    Her artistic pursuits, coupled with a commitment to professional development, reflect a steadfast dedication to personal growth and self-discovery.

    Driven by a profound desire to bring joy and alleviate suffering, she approaches each day with compassion and purpose.

    Mel's approach to hospitality focuses on creating memorable experiences and building genuine connections. She has learned that while she can't control the wind, she can adjust her sails.