The story of San-Gar Imports is a heartwarming tale of family, tradition, and entrepreneurship. It's a journey that began in the small town of Hawley, Texas, and has now blossomed into a vibrant business in Abilene. This family-owned venture, led by the Sanchez family, is a testament to the power of dreams and hard work. What makes this story particularly fascinating is the deep-rooted connection between the family's history and their business. The Sanchez family's story is a beautiful blend of personal and professional aspirations, where a shared love for Mexico and its crafts has become the foundation of their enterprise.
The family's journey started with a simple idea: selling metal lawn chairs imported from Mexico. This humble beginning laid the groundwork for what would become a thriving business. Ray Sanchez, the father, and his wife, Maribel, met in Mexico and later settled in Texas, where they raised their three children, Reyes, Yasmin, and Lori. The family's small-town life in Hawley provided a strong foundation for their entrepreneurial spirit. The support of the local community and the family's own determination fueled their desire to expand.
Yasmin, the eldest child, shares a poignant anecdote about the early days of their business. She recalls how people in the small town would ask when they would have more items available, and how the family's passion and dedication inspired them. This support and the family's own experiences in Mexico became the driving force behind their decision to move to Abilene and open their own store.
The opening of San-Gar Imports in Abilene marked a significant milestone in the family's journey. The store, located at 817 Butternut St., offers a wide array of handcrafted pottery, art pieces, and other Mexican-inspired goods. The Sanchez family's attention to detail and commitment to quality are evident in every item they offer. Yasmin emphasizes that each piece is unique, even if two items appear similar, showcasing the family's dedication to authenticity.
The family's vision for San-Gar Imports extends beyond the current offerings. They plan to expand their inventory to include furniture, Mexican clothing, shoes, purses, and wallets. Additionally, they dream of introducing a food truck to offer Mexican snacks and delicacies, further enriching the customer experience. Despite the challenges of starting a business, the Sanchez family's dedication and hard work are evident in their hands-on approach.
The family's daily routine involves a mix of business and personal responsibilities. Yasmin explains that while the majority of the family members balance their business with other jobs or school, the family's dedication to the store is unwavering. Ray Sanchez, the father, often helps with the yard work and brings items to the store, while Maribel, the mother, opens and closes the store and prays over the day and the customers. This blend of personal and professional lives showcases the family's commitment to their business and their shared dream.
The Sanchez family's ultimate goal is to expand their business to the point where Ray can retire from his full-time job and become more involved in the family enterprise. This aspiration reflects the family's dedication to their shared dream and their belief in the importance of family and tradition. San-Gar Imports is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., inviting customers to experience the family's passion and craftsmanship.
In conclusion, the story of San-Gar Imports is a testament to the power of family, tradition, and entrepreneurship. It's a journey that began in the heart of Texas and has now blossomed into a vibrant business, enriching the Abilene community. The Sanchez family's dedication and hard work have created a unique and authentic shopping experience, and their dream of opening a store has become a reality that they continue to nurture and grow.
