We had the good fortune of connecting with Carla Gomez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Carla, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I was born and raised in Fairfax, VA by parents from the Dominican Republic. My dad has always been hard-working, making trips from DR to NYC for months at a time to work. After marrying, my parents moved to the United States where his grind continued. I grew up knowing I had a fearless dad, willing to put hours of work in now to build a successful future. In the early 2000s, he opened his auto repair business which has now scaled 20 years later to include custom paint work and vinyl wraps. However, he didn’t stop there. My dad started investing in property, both residential and commercial, and I spent a lot of time viewing homes with them which led me to my love for real estate and investment properties. With my love for travel and knowing that there is serious income potential in the industry, I decided to dive into short term rentals with determination, knowing that one day I would be as successful as him.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I started in the summer of 2021 after moving out of a condo in Littleton, CO that I had purchase back in Spring 2020, right before the pandemic hit. My business started as Foothills Properties, LLC, but after a few months of thought I realized that I needed a more inviting name. That is how CasaLuxe formed.

Over the last two years of the pandemic, I have learned that there is too much I want to do and see. Starting a business was the only way for me to obtain that time and financial freedom I had always wanted. In no way was it easy (and it is still hard at times) – it took weeks of research and hours of physical work to get started. I persevered by seeing the bigger picture of what could, actually, what WILL be. I wanted to be someone that the younger latinx community could look up to. I wanted to make sure that EVERYONE felt safe when traveling. This is why it was very important for me to start a business that is woman and minority-owned.

Our mission is to connect the world and redefine hospitality with exceptional stays. To open our doors and create an inclusive environment for everyone. To celebrate and share the beauty of each city.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
That’s a tough one! There is so much to do in Denver and the Front Range. I would probably start by taking them to check out Pikes Peak; drive all the way to the top and have those world-famous donuts in their little cafe! We would make a stop in the Springs for some burgers at The Skirted Heifer before driving back to Denver to relax for the rest of the night. In the city, we would check out Denver Biscuit Company for some brunch, Guard and Grace for a fancy night out, Death & Co for some nice cocktails, and Little Man Ice Cream for some treats. Red Rocks would be a must visit for a concert and some quick hikes nearby. On our last few days together, we would travel to Steamboat Springs and enjoy some hikes, hot springs, and the mountain town charm.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to shout out my dad, Marcos. He is the reason I have large dreams for my future – seeing where he started and where he is now has been my biggest motivator. Growing up with a determined father has led to the drive I have today and it is why I take risks to build a better life. Of course, there is also that one person on the ground building with me; and that is my boyfriend, Eric. He deserves a huge shout out, too! He helped me set up my first rental property and has flown to another city to get the second going. He has spent hours of his time helping me create this business and keep it going. And to me… that deserves special attention!

Website: https://casaluxestays.com/

Instagram: @theadventurouslatina

Other: Business Instagram: @casaluxestays

Image Credits
Jessica Cooke Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.