Today we’d like to introduce you to Paty Sesma.
Hi Paty, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am originally from Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico. I usually describe myself as a Mexican Latina who is naturally American. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Information and Communication Sciences (LCIC) from the Universidad de Monterrey (UDEM) and my biography begins in the entertainment industry when both of my parents met while working at a TV station. I believe it was fate since I grew up surrounded by local celebrities and eventually married one.
I started my career at Mexico’s largest television network before moving on to Univision years later and performing as a Regional Digital Editor for three Texas regions. Univision opened a big window of opportunity for me to interact with the community. This is when I discovered my passion for non-profit work.
However, in 2013, I decided to enroll in the Google Business View program and get certified as a Google Trusted Photographer. I had no idea how big of an impact this decision would have on me, as this is the chapter of my life in which my husband, Fernando Sesma, and I founded Panorama by Paty Sesma.
Without my husband as my support system, I would not have been able to take on this endeavor. Fernando Sesma has lived in the area for over 35 years. Having him by my side and as a pillar of Places by Paty Sesma, leading me, encouraging me, believing in my talents, and assuring me that everything is possible, made the task much easier than I had imagined during my whole entrepreneurial journey.
Through Panorama by Paty Sesma, we have been able to help numerous local businesses by providing them with a strong online presence and physically putting them on the map…on Google maps. We were able to help establish a large number of Google listings as a result of our efforts.
During the pandemic and after a mindful evaluation, “Panorama by Paty Sesma” transitioned and expanded into “Places by Paty Sesma” because we were now focused on helping businesses interact with their customers through social platforms. Many of them contacted us in despair, requesting help in setting up a Facebook profile quickly. And we did! I can’t express how gratifying it is to be able to help businesses, particularly Latino restaurants, in overcoming adversity and yet seeing them thrive.
Places by Paty Sesma is what it is today owing to the collaborative efforts of two Hispanic entrepreneurs who really want to see Latino establishments succeed and flourish.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Overall, yes, there have been challenges and some roadblocks that we welcome since they have provided opportunities for growth and learning.
The main challenge we encountered in 2013, which unfortunately continues to be a problem, is that many of my potential clients aren’t as familiar with digital marketing as I would like. As a result, they don’t believe they need a Google listing, a website, a Facebook page, or a TikTok account. So, as a result, they don’t see as much value in my work as I would like them to. As a result, it’s a little challenging for me to pitch our services to the businesses that I believe need the greatest support. So yes, it is a challenge, but one that motivates me to be creative when sharing the benefits of the work we do.
Here’s a funny example; I was selling my services to Mr. Montes de Oca, one of my clients, and I couldn’t stop talking about all the benefits of being on Google and Facebook and accessible to prospective customers. When I was finally finished, he turned to my husband and asked, “Is this how she convinced you to marry her?” Later on, he agreed to hire me!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Places by Paty Sesma creates a unique type of digital marketing because of the creativity with which we promote each business. We make certain that our organic posts and ads extend beyond simply posting nice photos of specialty dishes, cool signature cocktails, products, or services. We find a way to engage with the customers and stand out on every post we publish.
Additionally, Tints by Paty Sesma is a division of our company that specializes in the printing of promotional materials for sale at the sites. Our marketing efforts, through t-shirts, stickers, caps, and other items, transcend beyond the physical walls of the companies we support and the mobile screens of the customers we reach. We create one-of-a-kind designs in order to involve the community. We are committed to community empowerment, pride, and support, as well as having fun and making our clients smile when they see our creations. It’s been quite an adventure taking this path!
And the greatest part of Places by Paty Sesma is People by Paty Sesma, a branch that displays the most inspiring interviews of the people behind the businesses. Everyone has a story to tell, and these stories will inspire anyone to take chances. One of my clients told us how he started with a pocket full of dreams and little money more than 30 years ago. While recounting us the story, he broke down again. It’s very touching.
What sets us apart overall is the engagement we generate through our promotional efforts. I often tell my clients that having nice images on Instagram is like having an online album or online menu; it becomes boring at some point if you don’t add more to it!
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Do you want to know if I learned anything valuable throughout the COVID crisis? Absolutely! Who hasn’t? We learned to be there when we were needed, to never lose faith, to always look up where the answers are usually found, and to never look down, as we could miss an opportunity right in front of us.
The COVID “opportunity” brought out the most in everyone. During these times, the most commonly used word was “resilience.” It is well known that Latinos, and I speak particularly of Mexicans, are warriors who never give up. We acted without hesitation — even though these times demanded a great deal of patience — and made things happen. There were moments when it appeared as though time had stopped and many things had been put on hold. But there was always a new day to provide hope, and we clung to that promise.
When businesses began approaching me for urgent assistance, I realized that my involvement in their business was critical to them; it was important to everyone. Therefore, I learned a valuable lesson about collaboration and loyalty.
Contact Info:
- Email: placesbypatysesma@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.placesbypatysesma.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/placesbypatysesma
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/placesbypatysesma
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@placesbypatysesma
Image Credits
Photo by Places by Paty Sesma