Eleven years ago, husband-and-wife duo Jose Fuentes and Noelia Pahissa moved to San Diego from Barcelona, Spain. Fuentes worked as an engineer, while Pahissa pursued a career as an executive assistant. Later, the two deciding to act on a dream of owning their own company, and launched footwear collection, Pons Avarcas USA, from the beloved existing line in Spain. “I grew up wearing Pons Avarcas in Barcelona so I brought few pairs with me,” says Pahissa, of the styles ranging from leather sandals, to wedge espadrilles, and the eco classic line made from recycled tires. “After receiving dozens of compliments and being stopped by the street by strangers, my husband and I realized the demand here in the states. We launched Pons Avarcas shortly after and they’ve now become a Southern California staple.”

Since then, they have also launched a sister line of handmade shoes and wedges, Laro Espadrilles USA, replete with approximately 15 different designs crafted in La Rioja, Spain including ankle strap wedges and classic low styles in metallics and striped patterns. “I like the creative part,” says Pahissa. “I enjoy planning photo shots with stylists. Also working together with the workshop in Menorca designing new styles and colors for upcoming collections.”

By Jennie Nunn

Pictured: Pons Avarcas USA founders Noelia Pahissa and Jose Fuentes
Photo by Eugenio Iglesias

Email This To A Friend