The story of Yari Rivas is a testimony of perseverance, discipline, and love. Dominican by birth, originally from Santiago de los Caballeros, she arrived in Brooklyn at the age of 11. From an early age, her father instilled in her the importance of work and responsibility, becoming an inspiration that shaped her business vision. At 14, she began working part-time in a furniture store of friends and in her father’s multi-service in New York, where she began her training in the business world. “My dad always told me: ‘Do everything with love and dedication. Prepare and study to be a good person who adds value,'” she recalls with emotion.
The road was not easy. Yari faced the challenges of emigrating and adapting to new cultures. She spent a few years in Santo Domingo with her family, where she combined her roots with international experiences. Back in the United States, she settled in Reading, Pennsylvania, where she founded Reading Furniture & Decor, a business that has been a meeting and support point for the Hispanic community for the past nine years.
The Essence of Love in Business
Yari emphasizes that love is her secret ingredient in both her personal and professional life. “Every detail, every purchase, and every visit from our customers has love. That is what makes the difference against the competition,” she says. For her, her customers are more than consumers; they are family. “Each person who enters opens the doors of their home, their safe place, and makes us part of their dreams and projects.”
In addition, her experience as a female leader in a male-dominated industry has been a challenge that has forged her character. “Being the only woman in a group of male collaborators has been a challenge with very satisfactory results,” she reflects.
Advice That Transcends
For Yari, business should not focus on money, but on the positive impact on people. “Don’t start your business thinking about money, but rather what you can contribute to others. That genuine, selfless love will make you succeed,” she advises.
She also encourages Latina women not to fear failure. “Fear paralyzes and prevents growth. We have to be brave to move forward. God always shows the way and gives the necessary tools.”
Hispanics in Reading: A Growing Community
From her perspective, the Hispanic community has grown exponentially in Reading over the past two decades. “20 years ago, we were very few leaders, today we have grown 100%, supporting each other as a fraternal and beautiful community.” At Reading Furniture & Decor, they have shown that Hispanics can achieve the American dream with effort, discipline, and commitment, with the joy and hospitality that characterize their culture predominating in their actions.
Yari is also actively involved in local projects, cultural celebrations, and festivities that strengthen community ties. In addition, it supports emerging businesses that share its business values.
An Inspiring Family Legacy
Family is the engine that drives Yari. She speaks tenderly of her granddaughter, born during the COVID-19 era. “She came to restart my life and give color to everything.” Yari believes that her granddaughter Camila will also leave her mark on the family business, bringing an innovative and modern vision.
Her husband, her “Honey,” has been her unconditional companion since adolescence. Together they have built 32 years of history. She emphasizes that each space she renovates is inspired by the love of her family, such as the new “Honey” floor, inspired by her husband.
The Key to Success
For Yari, success lies in love and dedication. Her story not only inspires Reading’s Hispanic community, it also reinforces the importance of perseverance, commitment, and the courage to dream big. “I believe in dreams, in opportunities, and in doing well to achieve the American dream,” she concludes. Happy Holidays to all!
Grismely Almonte
Journalist
Photography: Golden Light Photography
Makeup: @Celineemakeupstudio
Decorations: Luxury Garden Studio
