Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
On June 26, 2025, the Doble M venue in McAllen, Texas, hosted the official launch of Karla Medina Bespoke Designs, a new business specializing in high-end, customized table settings. The event served as both a public introduction and a curated experience, offering guests a glimpse into one of the most refined and artistic offerings now available in the Rio Grande Valley.
“My business is called Karla Medina Bespoke Designs,” said Karla Elizabeth Torres, the owner and creative director. “Medina is my maiden name. I specialize in customizing table settings. Today, the new form of luxury is time—the time to create a beautiful table, to spend with family, to personalize the moment.”
Although she has been creating for years, this pop-up showcase marked the formal start of her business. “I’ve been doing this for many years, but in the past five years I’ve built a solid inventory of dinnerware,” Karla explained. “People kept asking me to create custom pieces, and now, after five years, I’m officially launching this business.”
The event drew strong attendance and enthusiasm from the public. “Yes, we’ve had a great turnout,” she noted. “I feel so blessed, especially with people coming from other cities like Laredo and Brownsville.”
Guests were invited to explore meticulously designed catalogs and one-of-a-kind samples, showcasing embroidery, graphic design, and fully coordinated table arrangements. “Absolutely,” Karla said when asked if she could bring a customer’s concept to life. “Any idea someone has—God created an infinite universe, and while I’m not comparing myself, creativity has no limits. Whether it’s the clouds of Dubai or the waves of the Arctic Sea, I can design it.”
Sandra Brown of Sorrento Fine Homes shared her perspective. “My opinion of Karla is that she has an incredible talent—a real gift for design. I truly hope she continues to succeed and achieves great things in the future. She’s already working on a lemon-themed design that perfectly matches my brand.”
Customization options on display included embroidered napkins, monogrammed linens, and digitally previewed concepts. “Exactly,” Karla said. “Whatever idea the client brings, I can show them a sample before they commit. That’s the advantage of the digital age—you can visualize the product before making a purchase.”
Interior designer Melisa Ancer, also in attendance, emphasized the uniqueness of the event. “Honestly, I’ve never seen an event like this here in the Valley. It’s truly first-class,” she said. “I loved the attention to detail, the refinement, and the quality of the pieces. For an interior designer, this is a dream.”
Karla clarified that her services are not limited to residential use. “Everything is possible. I just had a bride who ordered personalized napkins for each of her guests. She even asked me to design her wedding logo,” she explained. “My passion began years ago—in 2012, I started a custom invitation business, and I’ve always been drawn to graphic design.”
Her embroidery service spans multiple materials. “Of course! We can embroider on almost any fabric surface—even leather,” she said. “We use state-of-the-art embroidery machines that handle a wide range of materials.”
One attendee, Thelma Tamez, commented on the artistic balance she observed. “The space is modern, blending both maximalist and minimalist elements in a beautiful way. Karla has this amazing ability to tap into each person’s unique identity and reflect that in a space. It’s something we truly needed.”
Another guest, Marisol Padrón, offered a practical perspective. “Honestly, it’s something special—something I’ve never seen here in the Rio Grande Valley,” she said. “It’s exciting to have this available locally. For those of us who love interior design, this is an excellent opportunity.” Padrón confirmed she had already selected her dinnerware, napkin rings, and tablecloths.
One of the more striking testimonials came from Ana Bergh. “I just returned from a trip to the south of France,” she said. “I saw something I liked there, but when I came here, I said, ‘This is exactly what I want.’ This is very sophisticated. This is amazing.”
Karla also offered a reflection on the deeper values her business represents. “My passion for this business grew even stronger after COVID, as we all began to see life differently. We learned to truly value the moments we share while we’re still healthy and able. One of the most meaningful ways to express love today is through time. Taking time to set a beautiful table and serve someone thoughtfully is what we call ‘the new silent luxury.’ That’s what I want to help people express—love through creativity and intention.”
In closing, Karla left a final message: “I’m here to help anyone who wants to make a lasting impression on the people they love most.”
The Karla Medina Bespoke Designs pop-up was not just a launch—it was a demonstration of creativity, culture, and craftsmanship. For those in the Rio Grande Valley seeking personalized, high-end table design, this event signaled the arrival of something both elegant and entirely unique.
