Hidden Gems: Meet Arianna Luna of La Bella Luna Boutique/ Cultura X Chicano Vibez Festival

Today we’d like to introduce you to Arianna Luna

Hi Arianna, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
As freshman at Tucson High School, I was involved in a student-led organization focused on social justice, higher education, and cultural awareness. Through this, I helped create the Unity Festival, uniting the community through Hip Hop’s 5 elements. This experience inspired my journey as a young business owner, leading to the annual “Cultura & Chicano Vibez Festival” at the Mercado San Agustin Annex, where my boutique is located.

The Cultura & Chicano Vibez Festival, now in its fourth year, continues to be a free, family-friendly, two-day celebration of Chicano culture and the five elements of Hip-Hop. It features live music from renowned artists and local talent, alongside a Car Show, Fashion Show, Mariachi, Folklorico, Hip Hop Dances, Break Dance Battle, Vendors, Food trucks, a Kids Entrepreneur Market, and Resource tables for the community.

As one of the only young Chicana business owners in the district, I started this event to bring our Chicano culture and community to the Annex & Mercado District area, west of Downtown Tucson. This would also drive business to our neighborhood and to highlight local Arizona artists alongside big names like past performers Las Cafeteras, Reverie, and Chris Perez. We also work with Casa Maria Soup Kitchen to raise funds and donation drive for their local soup kitchen and community closet that is free to those in need.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As the sole financial and planning force behind the festival, I faced numerous obstacles – financial, mental, and physical. While support was present, conveying my vision initially was the most challenging hurdle.

The first year’s success paved the way for smoother subsequent years, though financial constraints persisted. Feelings of isolation were a constant challenge, yet they fueled my determination to excel and showcase the festival’s potential. Thankful for my business, the sponsorships and community funds we receive to help run this community driven festival, and only wish to grow from here.

We’ve been impressed with La Bella Luna Boutique/ Cultura X Chicano Vibez Festival , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
As for my business, whether you’re a vintage aficionado, a fan of desert-inspired glam, or someone who loves discovering unique treasures, we have it all at La Bella Luna Boutique. Based in the heart of Tucson, AZ but shipping world wide, our boutique is a celebration of all things beautiful, bold, and creative.

At La Bella Luna, we curate a mix of pre-loved, vintage, thrifted gems, and fresh new finds, all chosen to reflect the eclectic modern desert style. But what truly sets us apart is our collaboration with talented local artists and creators, bringing you one-of-a-kind pieces that tell a story.

Whether you’re hunting for a statement accessory, a show-stopping outfit, or a unique home décor item, we offer a little something for every kind of fashion enthusiast. Step into a world where the magic of the desert meets the allure of vintage to high fashion.

Bringing the Cultura X Chicano Vibez Festival to the MSA Annex was crucial, as I was the sole Chicana business owner at the time. Now that we’ve established our presence, I’m committed to maintaining this safe and creative space for our culture and community. I am proud to be who I am and want to inspire and show other younger ME’s that we are allowed to be in these spaces and can do anything we set our mind to. Taking what I know and creating my own business has been a blessing and gift that I wish to share with the world.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
My favorite book is “The Four Agreements,” and I always recommend it to everyone, regardless of age. I also happen to sell a couple of books in my boutique from my late University of Arizona professor, Dr. Roberto ‘Cintli’ Rodriguez, who has been a major influence in my education, leading to my teaching degree and positive life choices: “Our Sacred Maiz Is Our Mother” & “Yolqui”

A couple of podcasts I listen to are “Is Anyone Listening” and the “Latina Leadership Podcast”

Pricing:

• Free Festival to the Public
• Vendor spots available at different prices
• Sponsorships/Partnerships available
• Boutique prices are at affordable rates

Contact Info:

• Website: https://chicanovibez.com
• Instagram: @ChicanoVibezAZ
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Chicano-Vibez-Sunday/100085241671864/
• Other: https://labellalunaboutique.com

Image Credits
HCortez Media (Hilda Cortez)
& Obsidian Lens Media Photography (Damian Becerra of Obsidian Lens Media)