Puro Pinche Galentines at La Ruina
La Ruina, an elegantly designed South American-inspired bar that sits in downtown San Antonio, became beautifully transformed by influencer Stephanie Guerra with Puro Pinche, and a congregation of female entrepreneurs to create Galentine’s, a space to shop, dance, and drink, created for women, by women. Walking up to Galentine’s, you’re greeted by a stunning balloon arch provided by Picnic at Tiffany’s, energetic sounds from renowned local artist and DJ Alyson Alonzo, and tables adorned by pink and red hues, chocolates, and charcuterie; not to mention the take-a-note, leave-a-note station, where women were encouraged to write empowering messages to one another.
Once you exit the downstairs bar to their patio, you enter the vendor’s market, carefully curated to spotlight talented local businesswomen. There were many wonderful, local options for those looking for a last-minute Valentine’s Day gift: Buenas Vibes displayed a collection of charming jewelry with a custom engraving station for you to personalize a stunning piece for your loved one, Chica Beauty provided specialized makeup and beauty essential kits, Deznyr was on site with handmade earrings and stickers, Flawless Beauty by Tina offered luxurious skincare, or you could shop the unique and delicious teas from Happyness Tea Company. In addition to the vendors, Lumin booths provided an opportunity to capture memories with a pink and red heart backdrop provided by Robadulces.
Galentine’s, however, was not just a female-focused Valentine’s themed market; Puro Pinche was partnering to benefit Sueños Sin Fronteras, a grassroots collective begun by 4 women in 2018 who work to provide the necessary support for undocumented pregnant and birthing individuals. Since the inception of their Empowerment Mutual Aid Fund in 2020, they’ve redistributed over $150,000 to the community through emergency assistance, whether something as significant as rental aid, or a consistent supply of diapers, wipes, and other childcare necessities. They’re planning to relaunch their volunteer program, where interested parties can deliver meals, clothes, and groceries to people, help them navigate geographic and linguistic barriers, and assist in getting these in-need individuals to their essential wellness check-ins. For more information regarding their volunteer program, you can follow their Instagram at @suenossinfronterastx or visit their website https://opencollective.com/ssftx, where you can also make a contribution.
Editor: Jordyn Blevins
Photographer: Bethany Castro
