We had the good fortune of connecting with Emily Brand and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Emily, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I was looking for a way to incorporate our kids into our business life. We found a real life way to teach them customer service, how to handle money and interact with the public in a positive way.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I literally get to sell and bring joy to people. The experience of trying a new pop flavor with your kids or waiting for the ice cream truck outside with piggy bank money. I get to be a part of childhood memories and make people happy. Hearing older customers tell me that a certain flavor reminds them of the past or seeing a kid with sticky fingers and blue pop stained lips telling me that it was the best, it makes my day every time. I spent my previous business years in dentistry, interacting with people and helping them feel better. Owning our business has given me a different way to make people smile and feel better.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
After spending the last 1.5 years in the food truck community, I have found the most down to earth, loving, kind and creative people. So we would spend our time visiting food truck yards in Fort Worth and Dallas. We would also make some pit stops at farmer’s markets in the area to support other local small business.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are two people that stand out in my mind as my biggest supporters and who encourage me daily. One is my partner and husband, Jared. When I was struggling and trying to find a way to contribute and include our kids, he immediately helped me make a list of goals and work through how we could accomplish those as a family. He is my biggest cheerleader and truly a balancing force in my life. The second person is my uncle, Eric. He is unable to work but he volunteers his time to attend events with me, meet customers, watch kids, unload inventory and lift up my spirits when I am feeling defeated. Both these men have helped make me a stronger business owner and they do everything so selflessly.
Website: www.friospops.com/locations/colleyville AND www.friospops.com/locations/haslet
Instagram: @frioscolleyville AND @frioshaslet
Facebook: facebook.com/frioscolleyville AND facebook.com/frioshaslet