Sweet Journeys:

The Love Story Behind Dulceria

La Holandesa

BY ZIA AHMAD

At Dulceria La Holandesa candy and gift store, the owners, Rinette Laros and her wife — Emerita Carrillo Rubio — have poured love and care into their business. It is apparent in each item on display. Here, the colors are bright, and the atmosphere is joyful.

From festive greeting cards to unique Christmas ornaments, it is a perfect spot for both locals and tourists alike.

Dulceria La Holandesa reminded me of the locals’ favorite gift shop in the Andersonville neighborhood of Chicago — Foursided — when I visited to meet the owners.

Tucked beneath the iconic Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe church in Puerto Vallarta’s historic Centro neighborhood, this store is a treasure trove of candies and gifts, offering a colorful array of products.

But the vibrant atmosphere of the shop is also a reflection of a story. A story of resilience, perseverance, and determination. It is a tale of a once young Rinette and her decades-long journey from the Netherlands to Mexico.

As you step inside, you are greeted by vibrant displays filled with a mix of traditional Mexican sweets, handcrafted chocolates, and charming gift boxes.

It all started in 1965 in Kaatsheuvel, Netherlands, where Rinette was born and raised by a traditionally conservative family.

“From a young age, I could sense how my feelings toward other women had set me apart from those around me,” Rinette recalled, sitting across from me in the back of the store.

Yet she felt compelled to adhere to the traditional paths laid out by her parents, mainly due to not having a support system in place. In 1988, at just 19 years old, Rinette married her then-husband, Wim, and their union lasted for 24 years. While she cherished her marriage, Rinette struggled with her identity and feelings for women.

“I sought companionship discreetly when possible.”

Over the years, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, had become a recurring sanctuary for Rinette and Wim where they’d enjoyed vacations, an escape from the constraints of their life in the Netherlands. There, Rinette had also met the reserved Emerita, but things couldn’t progress between them since their paths could only run parallel, and not cross.

During one of those trips, Rinette faced an unexpected health scare that landed her in the hospital. With her return flight missed, she found shelter with Emerita, who, alongside her mother, welcomed Rinette with open arms. This serendipitous moment sparked a connection that would change Rinette's life forever.

“I was grateful for Emerita’s kindness,” Rinette said, “so I invited her to visit the Netherlands.”

It was during that trip that the two fell in love. Torn between her marriage and newfound love, Rinette was faced with a heart-wrenching decision. When she confided in Wim about her feelings for Emerita, Wim’s response was both devastating and revealing:

‘“This time I’m going to lose you.”’ Rinette recalled what he had said.

Tragedy struck shortly after. Wim was diagnosed with terminal esophagus cancer. He succumbed to the illness just six weeks later. But before taking his last breath, Wim played an unexpected role as Rinette’s guardian angel, ensuring her parents would accept Emerita after he was gone.

“It was like the universe was paving the path for Emerita and me to be together,” Rinette told me.

Rinette described Wim as a comforting presence in her life. During her moments of sadness, she would often hear the melody of what used to be their song, "Have You Ever Seen The Rain," by Credence Clearwater filling the air. The echoing melody has been a reminder to her that even in darker times, there was always hope and support waiting for her.

After Wim’s death, Rinette followed her heart to Puerto Vallarta, where she and Emerita founded Dulceria La Holandesa in October 2013. The store, adorned with colorful candies and gifts, quickly became a labor of love and a testament to their enduring partnership in life and business. In 2022, Rinette and Emerita celebrated their marriage. They solidified their bond and the community they had built around their shop.

Rinette often reflects on the contrasting lifestyles of the Netherlands and Mexico. Here in Puerto Vallarta, the pace of life is slower, more vibrant, she said.

“Back in the Netherlands, there was always a rush to get somewhere,” she chuckled. “In Mexico, people actually live.” outandaboutpv.com

Today, she encourages others to embrace the local culture and support small businesses. With Dulceria La Holandesa, she serves not only as a business owner but also as a pride for the local LGBTQI+ community, advocating for local shopping and fostering a sense of belonging.

“Support small businesses and shop local” is Rinette's message for the LGBTQI+ community.

Every color, every smile, and every sweet treat at Dulceria La Holandesa tells a story of resilience, love, and the power of following one’s heart. And Rinette Laros stands as a testament to the beauty of living authentically and the joy of embracing who you truly are.

DULCERIA LA HOLANDESA: HIDALGO 226, COL. CENTRO, 48300, PUERTO VALLARTA, JAL.

MIXER AT ONE SIX ONE

Artisanal sausage dogs FOR FOODIES

Big, uniquely-flavored sausages, each on a freshly baked brioche bun with your choice of sauteed onions, mushrooms, or peppers, and house-made dressings. Woof.

The best fries in PV

Tender-crisp potatoes dusted with rosemary, garlic & parmesan, BBQ, or MexiCajun. Yum.

Huesitos

Pillowy-soft pastries dredged in cinnamon sugar and drizzled with honey. Uff.