We had the good fortune of connecting with Roz Givens and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Roz, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My decision to start my own business was driven by a combination of financial necessity and opportunity. As a teacher, I had a significant amount of free time during the summer months and was looking for a way to supplement my income. I had previously run a fitness boot camp during the summer, but it proved unsustainable due to the Texas heat..
The inspiration for my business, The Snow Wagon, came while attending an outdoor festival in Dallas. I noticed a vendor selling snow cones, and two thoughts struck me: first, that this was a brilliant business idea for the summer when people are looking to cool off, and second, if this vendor could successfully run such a business, then I could too. The concept of offering a refreshing treat during the hottest months of the year seemed like a perfect fit, both for my schedule and the market demand. This realization sparked my entrepreneurial journey, leading to the creation of The Snow Wagon.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
There are a lot of great places to get snow cones in the metroplex, but what sets The Snow Wagon apart, and what I am most proud of, is that we try to recreate the joy of enjoying a snow cone from your favorite place right to your doorstep. We deliver the snow cones to you, making it easy and even more delightful. I’m proud when I see people gather around, discussing their favorite flavors and recommending new ones to friends. It’s heartwarming to watch families and friends come together to celebrate a special occasion, coworkers laughing and joking together on a “snow day”, and communities connecting over our snow cones. It’s hard to scroll through a phone with a cup and spoon in hand, and that simple act fosters real connections, whether people realize it or not. I’m proud to be part of that connection.
Business-wise, I’ve reached this point by learning from mistakes, being observant, and listening to others. There is still much growth ahead, and I embrace every opportunity to learn and improve. Entrepreneurship has taught me to be a creative problem solver. Challenges come in various forms—financial, mechanical, or small issues with potentially big consequences. I’ve learned that flexibility, persistence, and creativity are crucial for growth, and that has benefited both my business and my personal development.
What I want the world to know about The Snow Wagon is that it represents quality and community — quality service and quality products. We aim to help you relive the joy of visiting a snow cone stand in your youth and to create that same cherished memory for young people today. The Snow Wagon is rooted in the community and serves it with a cool snow cone and a warm smile, fostering connections and creating joyful moments wherever we go.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Dallas offers a perfect blend of art, culture, great food, and lots to do. If my best friend were visiting the area for a week, I would definitely suggest checking out some of the incredible art and music in Dallas.
We would visit Trinity Groves, Bishop Arts District, Deep Ellum, Lower Greenville areas. We would check out Dallas Museum of Art, Klyde Warren Park, The Famers Market, maybe rent bikes from Pedago and ride to White Rock Lake, or visit the Museum of Illusions.
We would definitely go to a Dallas Wings game, maybe shopping at North Park, or Legacy West in Plano. Dinner and music at The Free Man Jazz Cafe, Miami Vibes in Plano, or Pangea in Garland.
My friends know that I’m the low-key type who enjoys good food, nice environments, and easy entertainment, so if it were up to me, I’d show my friend some of my favorite sights, sounds, and flavors of Dallas.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are a lot of people I could shout out for supporting my business. My family, friends, and coworkers have been invaluable, giving me real feedback and telling me when things were great and when they needed improvement. Their honesty and encouragement have been crucial in shaping The Snow Wagon.
I also want to recognize the other entrepreneurs I’ve met along the way. Their advice and encouragement, especially during challenging times, have been a great source of inspiration and motivation.
A special shoutout goes to our clients who support small businesses like The Snow Wagon. Their support, especially through referrals to friends and family, has been instrumental in our growth and success.
I appreciate too many people to list them all individually, but you know who you are, and I want you to know how grateful I am for your support.
Website: https://www.thesnowwagondfw.com
Instagram: @TheSnowWagon
Facebook: https://fb.com/TheSnowWagon