It is my pleasure to introduce you to Danielle Johns. She is the owner of Snow Daddy's Shaved Ice in Arkansas and is sharing her tremendous story of victory and success. She has gone from working in a hospital, being in an abusive relationship, dealing with illness, to being a proud, successful owner. She shares her testimony and advice for those of us looking for some motivation in our businesses. Enjoy!
1. Tell me your story. What were you doing before you started your own business?
Before I launched Snow Daddy's Shaved Ice, I worked 12 hour nights as a Unit Secretary at a local hospital for nearly 4 years. During my first year of employment I was badly bruised by the person I lived with. After removing myself from that environment, I realized that I had lost myself in a world that was not my own. I changed my mentality and set my focus on finding myself and my place in life. Things seemed to be getting better but I still worked nights and slept days. I began to feel that I was missing out on spending needed time with my children. In 2009, I was diagnosed as a Type 1 Diabetic with a blood sugar level of 1102. There aren't a lot of jobs in the Delta so I felt I had to maintain my employment, not just to support my children but to also be able to afford the lifelong treatment for this disease. I began losing weight and became deeply depressed. I began to think my life was coming to an end. I have had difficulty controlling this disease which has caused me major health problems. God has seen me through my darkest days. I regained enough strength to realize I wanted to live again. Not only did I want to live but I wanted to live happily.
2. What made you want to start a business and what is your mission?
A friend and I would travel from Arkansas to Mississippi to purchase Shaved Ice. One day while at the stand I decided I was going to open my own Shaved Ice Stand. I started researching companies, products, equipment, supplies, etc. In April of 2011 I purchased a building and had it delivered to my hometown. Just as I was about to complete the construction of my building, I was interrupted by the State Electrical Inspector for not using a licensed electrician. I was also halted by some bad information given to me by the County Health Inspector. I thought my plan was falling apart right before my eyes. I prayed and I prayed hard. I contacted the State Health Department regarding some regulations I had been told I had to follow. I was informed that it did not apply to me and that I could proceed as planned. Now my issue was to complete construction of my building and hire a Licensed Electrician which I had not budgeted for. I was contacted and told that there was a Snow Cone Stand in the neighboring town for sale. I reached out to an old friend and was able to acquire the building and open immediately. Snow Daddy's offers over 50 flavors and our 2nd specialty Taco-2-Go. We express appreciation to our customers by offering a Reward Card for free. When you purchase 9 snow cones you receive the 10th one free. My Shaved Ice stand is currently a seasonal business. In April, Snow Daddy's hosts a Snowball Fest to launch snow cone season where we provide free food, fun, games and prizes and horse rides. Snow Daddy's also supports the Lil Jacob Learning Center's Back2School Drive as well as Global Youth Service Day. We are currently mapping out a 2nd location. Lol, who knows, one day there may be a Snow Daddy's near you.
My absolute passion is anything dealing with crafting, designing and creating. My mission is to one day own a custom furniture design showroom.
3. What inspires you? What keeps you motivated daily to keep growing your business?
My 16 year old daughter and 4 year old son are my greatest inspiration.
4. Do you have a mentor? Who is it and why? Do you believe it's important to have one?
No, I do not have a mentor; however I would love to have one. I have a support group that I turn to when I'm in need of advice or direction. I am a very spiritual person. I believe in God! I believe in the Word. I've learned to ultimately turn to the Lord for all my needs.
5. What would you tell someone who wants to get involved in your line of business but doesn't know how to get started?
The Shaved Ice business can be a rewarding venture. I personally spent nearly a year researching because I didn't have a lot of money, but I was going all in and needed to make the least mistakes as possible. A high traffic location is key as well as a good product. There are many options for distributors however, I would recommend a company that's been in business a while and knows the industry.
6. What advice would you give to someone with an entrepreneurial spirit?
One of my favorite books is called Dreams Really Do Come True by Dennis Burke. Dreams are the God-given desires of your heart in seed from. Believe in your dream, embrace your dream, run toward your dream, refuse to let go of your dream, and ultimately you will live your dream. Make It Happen!!
Snow Daddy's Shaved Ice is located in Eudora, AR. You can visit their site and learn more at www.facebook.com/GoSnowDaddys.
I just want to thank Danielle for being bold enough to share her story. I hope it has been motivational to someone to go and pursue their dreams!
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