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Sitting on the terrace of Fabré Agency South, my winter refuge in Cuernavaca, a spontaneous thought struck me: I needed to visit Oaxaca. This wasn’t a new destination for me; I had wandered there in my youth, seeking leisure without deeper intent. Yet, this time, driven by a simple yet profound connection to a coffee named Pluma Oaxaca from a local café, I felt a compelling urge to delve deeper, to meet the growers of this coffee that had become a staple of my morning ritual here. Within a week, I was on a road trip, journeying through the heart of Mexico to the mystical village of Pluma Hidalgo, ready to immerse myself in the essence of my heritage and the spirit of human connection.
The journey to Pluma Hidalgo was an adventure in itself, chosen to fully experience the transition from Cuernavaca to Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca. It was there, in Puerto Escondido, that fate smiled upon me, guiding me to a guide who would navigate the steep, narrow paths to Pluma Hidalgo. With no prior plans or preparations, I embraced the uncertainty, placing my trust in the hands of a higher power.
Amidst the isolation of Pluma Hidalgo, where modern conveniences like cell service were shoddy at best, I discovered a profound connection with the local growers. Their warmth and generosity went beyond mere hospitality, offering a glimpse into a world where the land’s bounty is deeply intertwined with the people’s spirit. The coffee and chocolate they shared were not just products of their labor but symbols of their deep connection to the earth, nurtured through rituals and ceremonies aligned with the lunar cycles.
This venture was fueled by a desire to bridge the gap between my familial past in Mexico City and the vibrant communities of Oaxaca and Morelos. Despite the initial uncertainty, my journey was marked by serendipitous encounters and the universal language of kindness, from the guide who led me to Pluma Hidalgo to the top producers who welcomed me with open arms during a quiet period between harvests.
Inspired by the sustainable practices I witnessed, from organic certifications to a deep reverence for natural cycles, I envisioned creating an importation business that would bring the unparalleled quality of Oaxacan coffee, chocolate, and sweets to Minneapolis. This endeavor, driven not by commercial success but by the joy of sharing these treasures, reflects my deepest values and a desire to celebrate the richness of life in all its forms.
Throughout this journey, I was enveloped in a mix of emotions, from awe at Mexico’s natural beauty to a profound sense of peace and connection. These experiences deepened my commitment to my mission, reinforcing my desire to act as a conduit for cultural exchange and understanding. Despite the surprise of many at my Mexican heritage, overshadowed by my French ancestry (my forebears emigrated to Mexico from Barcelonnette), this journey reaffirmed my identity and purpose, showcasing the beauty and richness of Mexico to those who may never see it through my eyes.
This narrative is not just about coffee, cacao, and raw cane sugar but a story of discovery, connection, and the enduring power of human kindness. I invite you to join me on this journey to savor the richness of life, one cup, one chocolate, and one heartfelt interaction at a time.
