Today we’d like to introduce you to Citlalin Rios.
Hi Citlalin , it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born in Mexico and studied Textile and Fashion Design at the Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes. In 2014, I moved to Montreal, Canada, where I worked in the bedding and apparel industry for several years. After almost a decade, my husband and I decided to start a new chapter in North Carolina, where we’re now raising our son. I chose to pause my career for a while to focus on him and our new life together.
Fiesta Brain was born from that chapter of motherhood. Watching my son explore the world through textures, colors, and endless curiosity reminded me of the creative spark that first drew me to design. I began making handmade fidgets at home, using textiles, as a way to help him to convert nervous energy into constructive tasks that teach hand eye coordination and patience during everyday moments. What started as a small project between us soon became a passion a way to share my way to keep my son far from screens, also creativity, calm, and joy with other families too.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Starting over in a new country while raising a little one brought both excitement and uncertainty. I had to rebuild my rhythm, learning to navigate motherhood, rediscover my creativity, and find a new sense of purpose away from the career I had built for years.
When I started Fiesta Brain, it was just me, my sewing machine, and small windows of time while my son napped. There were moments of doubt and many late nights wondering if I was moving in the right direction.
But every challenge came with a reminder of why I started. Seeing my son light up when he played with a new fidget, or hearing from parents who said my creations helped their kids be far from screens and find calm, made it all worth it. It’s been a journey of growth, patience, and faith — one that continues to teach me every day.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a textile designer with more than 15 years of experience in the industry, and now the founder of Fiesta Brain, a brand born from motherhood and creativity. My first client and my biggest inspiration is my son. Watching him explore textures and colors reminded me of the power of sensory play and how design can nurture calm and focus.
At Fiesta Brain, I create handmade sensory fidgets using textiles materials. Each piece blends my professional background with my love for mindful, meaningful play. What makes my work unique is the heart behind it, every design begins with real moments of curiosity, emotion, and connection between a mom and her child.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that growth takes time and that’s okay. When I became a mom and started Fiesta Brain, I had to learn to slow down, trust my process, and celebrate small steps. Creativity doesn’t always happen in perfect conditions; sometimes it happens between nap times, in moments of chaos, or when you least expect it.
I’ve also learned that connection is everything the way a simple handmade piece can bring calm to a child or a smile to a parent reminds me why I create. This journey has taught me to listen, to be patient with myself, and to find beauty in imperfection.
Pricing:
- $5.00
- $10.00
- $16.00
- $18.00
- $25.00
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @fiestabrain
