Tell us a little about your business.
Maquina 37 LLC is an illustration studio and online shop owned and operated by me Raquel Busa. I specialize in making custom illustrations for families and small businesses.
My favorite projects include family portraits, children’s books, and editorial illustrations. My online shop carries coloring books, stickers, wrapping paper, and more products with my images and surface pattern designs.
What differentiates you from your competitors? What makes you stand out?
My values set me apart from competitors and make me more trustworthy and approachable. My clients not only read about my values, they see my values reflected in the subject matter I choose for paid and personal projects.
I strive to depict underrepresented people in BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, especially children. I believe everyone has an authentic and valid perspective, with a story just waiting for me to illustrate. And I also strive to be honest and transparent, which means communicating and guiding my clients through their projects.
Why did you choose Malverne for your business?
Malverne is diverse, small, and at the perfect distance from New York City. My wife and I feel safe and welcomed in this community. That’s why we purchased a home in Malverne, where I run my business.
As you reflect on your time serving Malverne and the surrounding communities, what are you most proud of?
Although I am very new to Malverne, I am proud to have organized an Artists and Illustrators group via the NextDoor Social Media Platform. The group is comprised of artists from Malverne and the surrounding towns. We meet in person once a month to learn and collaborate.
How have you benefited from being a member of the Malverne Chamber of Commerce?
Being a Malverne Chamber of Commerce member has helped me meet more of my peers and potential clients through networking events. The chamber has provided opportunities to market my business and learn from my peers. I’ve already started collaborating with other companies in the community.
Did you know?
I ran the New York City Marathon thrice in 2016, 2018, and 2021. I lived in Egypt for two years, studying abroad and exhibiting my art. And last but not least, my business Maquina 37 LLC, is named after my vintage 1937 Singer Sewing Machine that my mother gave me. She immigrated to the United States from the Dominican Republic and supported our family as a seamstress in a factory. Her courage and resilience inspire me every day.
