Today we’d like to introduce you to Lorena Carvalho
Hi Lorena, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Hello, I’m Lorena Carvalho, a 45-year-old Brazilian living in Murfreesboro, TN, and the owner of Unique Cleaning Company LLC. My journey into cleaning started out challenging, especially since I was doing it in a new country. I first got into the field to help boost my family’s income, starting as a “helper” as they say in this cleaning language.
When I moved to Nashville in 2014 with my three little boys, I was always on the lookout for extra work. Two of my boys were too young for school, and daycare was too expensive to consider full time. My husband’s earnings barely covered our rent and basic expenses, and we needed extra money for our expensive immigration process. A friend, facing similar challenges with her small children, mentioned that someone at church knew a house cleaning service that was hiring on Saturdays and Sundays. This was perfect since my husband worked on Saturdays, leaving me free on Sundays.
Back then, I was completely unfamiliar with many of the cleaning tools and services used here, I didn’t even know what a Swiffer was, or how to properly use a mop. I started cleaning an Airbnb house for the company, and the owner truly became a guiding light in my life. She taught me how to make a hotel-style bed, how to use cleaning products correctly, and when to use them. Her patience and support meant everything to me. I stayed with the company for about three years, working on Sundays. With the money I earned, I was finally able to afford daycare at a church in Donelson for my two children, which was a huge step forward. The income was modest, but I loved it because it introduced me to my passion for cleaning, a passion that helped me overcome a difficult period by giving me focus.
When I moved to Murfreesboro in 2019, I wasn’t working as a cleaner anymore. Instead, I was driving for Uber, which meant daily trips to Nashville for better pay. However, my experience in cleaning stayed with me. After leaving the American cleaning company, I helped out a friend in Franklin with her residential cleaning business. That experience confirmed that I was in love with the cleaning world. Once I decided to stop driving for Uber, I finally gathered the courage to start my own business. In 2021, I officially launched Unique Cleaning Company LLC, right in the middle of the pandemic. Today, I’m still a small operation, with most of my clients coming through referrals, but I’m proud of how far I’ve come.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Today, in 2025, I lead three teams as my business continues to grow. Providing top-notch service isn’t easy, especially when it comes to finding reliable employees and competing in the advertising market. Transitioning from a completely different field to starting a new profession in a challenging market with a culture unlike my own was no small feat.
We do our best by always listening to our customers and employees, adapting as needed. Since most of our clients come through word-of-mouth referrals, we know that our success depends on doing excellent work every time. Without the financial resources to invest heavily in paid advertising, each satisfied customer becomes a valuable advocate for our business. Yet, this is a constant challenge because one unhappy customer can quickly harm your reputation.
Every day, we strive to overcome these obstacles, committed to growth, quality, and genuine service.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We’re a family-owned company that specializes in residential home cleaning services in Middle Tennessee. Cleaning isn’t just our job, it’s our passion. We take pride in seeing our customers smile when their homes shine.
Our services cover everything from regular cleaning to deep cleaning and move-in/move-out assistance. What really sets us apart is our focus on each customer. We don’t treat you as just another number, we see you as a partner and a friend. Many of our clients have been with us since the beginning, and our excellent, genuine reviews speak for themselves.
One of our proudest moments is hearing that for many, cleaning day is one of the happiest days of the week. That’s the kind of impact we aim to have, and it drives everything we do.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my favorite childhood memories is the time I spent camping with my family along the Rio Araguaia in Brazil. I remember the excitement of setting up our campsite in the midst of nature’s beauty, where the river flowed gently nearby and the sounds of wildlife filled the air. Those days were full of adventure and simple pleasures, waking up to the cool morning breeze, enjoying home-cooked meals over an open fire, and exploring the lush surroundings with my sisters and friends. It was a time of pure joy, when the world seemed large and full of wonder. This memory has stayed with me, reminding me of the importance of family, friends, nature, and the simple moments that shape our lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.uniquecleancompany.com/
- Instagram: unique_cleaningcompany
- Facebook: Unique Company LLC
