Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Nicole Jordan, Owner of Smoothie Stand, LLC, located in Portsmouth, VA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Smoothie Stand is a mobile smoothie vendor serving fresh, natural, and made-to-order smoothies in the seven cities of Hampton Roads, Virginia. The Hampton Roads area includes Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach. We are committed to bringing a healthy alternative to festivals and events in this area. We believe you should not have to change your outdoor plans because of the fear of items you cannot indulge in, especially if your food lifestyle includes clean eating. Smoothie Stand is to the rescue! People love smoothies, so we are answering the call to have your favorite drink on the go while having fun!
Smoothie Stand customers are those who like a variety of food options and enjoy having fun at our many festivals held every year, all year round. Our smoothies are for everyone of all ages and stages, regardless of their food lifestyle. All smoothies are vegetarian and/or vegan-friendly for those who are conscious about their food intake. We are committed to making healthy varieties for all to enjoy.
Tell us about yourself
I am an avid festival goer and enjoy the events that happen every year in this area. I noticed that there were no healthy eating options at the events, just fried and sugary foods. I have my share of those types of foods in moderation, of course, but after my CML (Chronic Myeloid Leukemia) diagnosis, my eating lifestyle changed drastically. I just wanted to be my best self and knew that I had to start with my eating habits which incorporated lots of varieties of smoothies.
Every day, I think of ideas, processes, and opportunities for Smoothie Stand. It is my baby, and I want to protect it as much as possible and watch it grow and flourish into more than I can imagine. I am motivated by the positive responses so far from customers and other business owners on our great-tasting smoothies, the overall idea, and the stand setup. It is confirmation that Smoothie Stand is on the right track.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment with being a business owner is stepping out on faith to create and build a business. I am the first entrepreneur in my family, so I have had to rely on outside sources to help build the business, such as SCORE and, the Hampton Roads Black Chamber of Commerce, Black Brands. Being a business owner is rewarding, especially to see your business grow and flourish. Smoothie Stand has been operating for one full year now, and the opportunities that it has been given are priceless!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
As a business owner running a small business, one of the hardest things is being the overseer of everything, from product production payroll/accountant to human resources manager. Running a business is work...period! For it to thrive, you must put in lots of hours to make sure things are done properly. It is hard to find a balance between running your business and home life, but if you have understanding family and friends in your circle and an overall game plan with your business, then it will work out.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Three tips I would give anyone to start, run and grow a business today are to have patience with business growth, stay on top of their industry trends, and stay connected with other entrepreneurs for ideas and encouragement. The road for entrepreneurs is not easy, but remembering your Why will keep you going.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.thesmoothiestand757.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smoothiestand757
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smoothiestand757/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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