Tacos El Paisa, located to the west of Ajijic, during its reopening on June 3. Photo: Sofía Medeles.

Sofía Medeles (Ajijic).- The project «Negocios Mágicos Ajijic,» or Ajijic Magic Businesses, celebrated the reopening of its first remodeling client, «Tacos El Paisa» last Friday, June 3. Having completed the first renovation, the promoters of the project, Katja Kohl and Araceli Kopiloff, are looking for the next winner.

‘Before’ photo of the renovated taqueria. Photo: Negocios Mágicos Ajijic.

The first makeover began on June 1 and ended two days later. The business owners’ investment comprised four thousand pesos, plus their active involvement in the process, in addition to funds contributed by the Negocios Mágicos Ajijic initiative.

«It is a great change that we needed. Now the place feels comfortable and cozy, but above all, cheerful. We tell other local businesses to get involved, because change is always good. It can result in more customers and a better place for them to offer a welcoming service,» commented the restaurant staff.

Immediately after their first success, the creators, designers and promoters of the project called upon other local businesses to participate in the initiative. Project personnel will collaborate with owners on redesigning the image and presence of the different businesses. 

Aspiring businesses will have to meet certain criteria, including Mexican-owned; willing to participate in the remodeling with their own hands; willing to share details of their story to help with the new design proposal, and contribute as much money to the overall budget as they can afford. For the rest, Araceli and Katja will take over.

‘After’ photo of the store post-remodeling. Photo: Negocios Mágicos Ajijic.

To nominate a local business, you can write to their Facebook page «Negocios Mágicos Ajijic,» or tag the page in posts containing the name of the business you’re nominating. The winner will be chosen by the number of nominations received, with a deadline of July 4.

Araceli and Katja have said that their goal is to assist at least ten businesses a year and to let people know that design is an element that is within everyone’s reach, regardless of budget.

Translated by Rebecca Zittle