Balancing Books and Business
By: Libby Clark
Students already have a hard time balancing work and play. Between studying for exams, finishing assignments, and preparing for presentations, it’s hard to imagine squeezing in time for a social life—let alone building a business. Yet, Marist student Stephania Bendek has managed to turn her passion for design into a growing business. Mootts, her bag brand, reflects her creativity, dedication to sustainability, and commitment to supporting women in El Salvador, her family’s home country. Here's a closer look at what it’s like building a business while navigating the demands of college life:
Background
Mootts began as a collaborative effort between Stephania, her mother, and her sister, all with the goal of creating something that would make a positive impact on their community. "My mom has always taught us the importance of feminism and supporting women," says Stephania, and this belief has certainly become a cornerstone of the brand’s mission. Their commitment to women’s rights and community support is interwoven with the very identity of Mootts. A significant influence on the brand is their connection to El Salvador, where Stephania’s family is from and where she visits often. Weaving is a traditional craft in El Salvador, and Stephania was raised learning this art form, one that is reflected in the unique design and construction of Mootts bags.
In El Salvador, many women only earn around seven to ten dollars a day, often struggling to cover basic living expenses while raising families on their own. Rather than outsourcing production to factories in China, Stephania and her family keep the production local, involving these women in the process and ensuring they are paid fair American wages. This not only provides financial security but also improves their quality of life. The bags themselves are made from recycled plastic to help reduce waste. “We really care about creating a positive, happy work environment,” Stephania shares. “For us, sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s about doing things the right way. That means fair wages, safe working conditions, and taking great care in every part of the process.”
“The word Mootts means roots, Stephania explains. “the name symbolizes the intertwinement of community and family.” She believes when someone carries a Mootts bag, they become part of this larger network of support and solidarity. It’s a brand not just about style but about connection.
Supports and Challenges
As a fashion design major, Stephania’s schedule is filled with demanding projects and tight deadlines, leaving little time for anything else. The workload is intense, with constant pressure to meet deadlines while producing high-quality work. “One of the biggest challenges is finding time for things like social media and attending shows, especially during finals or when I have a big midterm coming up,” she explains. “There’s always so much to do, and it’s sometimes difficult to coordinate photoshoots with everyone’s busy schedules. But I’ve learned to balance it, and I’m lucky to have a strong support system.”
Stephania credits her family, especially her mom, for emotional support and guidance. “My mom always says, ‘Everything works out, don’t stress,’ and that really helps me keep things in perspective,” she says. “I’m really fortunate to have such amazing support from my family and the Marist community.” Professors like DooRi Chung have provided invaluable business advice, even inviting Stephania to her Branding and Licensing class where students brainstormed growth strategies for Mootts. The experience not only gave the students real-world experience but also offered helpful insights for the brand. This mentorship has played a crucial role in Mootts' growth.
Stephania’s friends have also been a significant source of support. From modeling in photoshoots to helping with social media content, her peers have contributed their time and talents to the brand. Many of the brand’s striking photos are shot right on the Marist campus, clever camera angles often disguise familiar locations like the library. This collaborative spirit captures the very essence of Mootts: community coming together to create something beautiful and meaningful.
"It's been challenging at times, but I feel beyond grateful. Mootts gives me the opportunity to channel my passion for fashion design into something meaningful– working with my family to help women who need support." It’s definitely a balancing act, but one rooted in love, creativity, and a deep sense of purpose.
Looking Ahead
Recently, Mootts has expanded through exciting collaborations. This includes partnerships with hotels and boutiques in the Bahamas, bringing the brand’s unique style to a global audience. Mootts has also teamed up with Terrain, a home and garden brand from the Anthropologie family known for its focus on seasonal living and sustainability. Stephania is thrilled about this growth and the new opportunities it brings. “It’s so exciting to see the brand growing, and I’ve learned that it’s important to never be scared. There are good days and bad days, but I feel so fortunate to be where we are today.”
Looking ahead, Stephania is excited to keep growing Mootts, with plans to expand the product line to include towels and sundresses, staying true to the brand’s coastal summer vibe. She also envisions branching out into denim, seeing jeans as a timeless, beloved staple. For her, promoting slow fashion and supporting the community will always be central to the brand’s mission. The love and encouragement from her family and community inspire her as she moves forward. One of her major goals is to open a school in El Salvador, especially in areas with limited educational opportunities. She also hopes to create scholarships for students, something that resonates deeply with her, given the importance of education in her own life.
Running a business in college comes with its challenges, but it’s also an opportunity to make a real difference. Stephania’s story is truly inspiring, showing that with passion and perseverance, students can turn their ideas into something meaningful. Her advice for anyone thinking about starting their own business? Don’t be afraid to take risks, stay authentic to what you care about, and lean on your support system—it really can make all the difference.
To follow Mootts’ journey and explore their latest designs check them out on Instagram: @mootts_style.
