Catarina Marques. 38 years old. Born in Porto, she has a degree in Arts and Design. After living in Los Angeles for 15 years, she returned to Portugal after becoming a mother. This led to the creation of Via Essenza, a slow luxury brand. 

How would you define Via Essenza?
Via Essenza is a Portuguese leather goods brand that offers limited editions, combining craftsmanship, timelessness and exclusivity. The first item, the handbag VIA, is produced with Italian leather and has 25 numbered exemplars. 

What distinguishes it in the market?
Our Slow Luxury approach: we produce in small batches at a slow pace, paying close attention to every detail. The result is not just an accessory, but a collectable piece with soul and history.

What have been the biggest challenges so far?
The biggest challenge has been to balance the demands of craftsmanship and small-scale production with the high costs associated with luxury, particularly in the early stages. Additionally, establishing a brand in a highly competitive market where well-known international names dominate requires credibility and attention. However, I believe that authenticity and transparency are key to building trust.

What advice would you give to a young person just starting out in the industry?
My advice would be to find your own voice and a clear sense of purpose. Today, luxury is not just about the product itself, but also about its history, values, and authenticity. It’s important to be patient: create slowly, listen to the process, and value every detail. Above all, don’t be guided solely by trends, but by your personal vision and essence.