Home: Bluffton, SC. Birthplace: Arecibo, Puerto Rico. Profession: Entrepreneur, collector, real estate investor. Organization: Yvonne's Attic Collectibles. Title: Owner. Significant other: My husband, Kevin. Languages spoken: English, Spanish.
Current project: Curating investment-grade automobilia for serious collectors and museums. Recent recognition: Affiliate, life member of AACA. Latest accomplishment: Pancreatic cancer survivor, thriving in retirement. Latest contribution to others: Supporting the local food pantry to ensure everyone has a great Christmas. What’s been your big (or biggest leap)? Co-founding J. Frederick Construction as a female- and Hispanic minority-owned business in construction. Hobbies: Collecting, Zumba, water aerobics, gardening. Recent unique acquisition: 1907 Success Automobile Model B, believed to be the only surviving example.
Personality profile: Positive, intuitive, persistent, grounded. Moral compass: Trust yourself and your gut feeling. What is your greatest joy? A bird, Scarlett is spoiled rotten. What natural talent have you neglected? Sewing. What is your favorite place (or way) to spend money? Helping others the best way I can. How do you relieve stress? Cleaning home and gardening. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? Sightseeing and relaxing.
What was your favorite childhood toy or game? Hide and seek, refrigerator box sliding down a hill. Besides your parents, who has had the greatest influence on your life? Teachers. What’s the best advice you received growing up? Stay focused on your goals. What’s the best advice you received in your career? Trust your gut feeling. What is your go-to source of news and information? News Break. What is your go-to source of creative inspiration? Flea markets, antique shows, my own collections. What personal circumstance has had the greatest influence on your life? Overcoming pancreatic cancer.
What change would you like to see in the world?
More appreciation for preserving American history and craftsmanship.
What message do you want to send out into the world? Trust in yourself, especially when external validation is scarce. What mega-trend most excites you? Renewed interest in Americana and vintage collectibles. What mega-trend most concerns you? The threat to our democracy.
What actor would you choose to play you in the movie about your life? Anjelica Huston. Who would you like to spend an evening with, in heaven? My mom and God. As a kid, what did you first want to be when you grew up? An accountant. After your loved ones, what object would you first save from your burning home? My Scarlett, photos. How would you choose to spend tomorrow, if you knew it was your last day on earth? Here with my family, having dinner and spending time together. What advice would you give your younger self? Finish school and continue your education. What day in your life would you choose to re-live? The birth of my children.
Personal mission: Trying to help others with what I can. Personal motto: Every day is a new day; don't look back. Favorite quote: "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn" (Rhett Butler).
