Today we’d like to introduce you to Chanel Jones.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Chanel. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I started this business (franchise) with my siblings, and the three of us are Air Force Veterans. We wanted an opportunity to work for ourselves, provide financial freedom, and create a legacy for our children. Over the course of the first year my siblings have stepped away from the business, I have taken the reins, acquired a concession trailer and have proceeded to spread the Maui Wowi of South Houston brand throughout Houston.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
No! It has been the most confusing, windy, bumpy road. However, it has been so fulfilling having a thought and dream to become reality. There are days a question if I am crazy to continue, and I feel doubtful. Yet I persevere and remain hopeful.
The biggest struggle is doing all the work myself. Although I am a small business it is good to have a team to bounce ideas and decisions off of. All the choices are my own be it good or bad. It can create self-doubt, stress, and anxiety.
Most people do not know before they get into business how all-consuming it is. I sleep, eat, breathe, live Maui Wowi of South Houston!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Maui Wowi of South Houston – what should we know?
Maui Wowi of South Houston is a veteran-owned Hawaiian flavored coffee, smoothies, shave ice, frozen cocktails beverage truck. We are a 100% mobile and participate in various events in the Houston Metro Area.
We specialize in kid and family-friendly events. We can do festivals, school events, sporting events, bar mitzvahs, ROTC drill meets, just to name a few. We can cater important events e.g., graduations, weddings, retirements, birthdays, etc.
We are known for our smoothies and coffee. We have only just implemented shave ice and waiting to utilize our frozen cocktails capability. Our smoothies are gluten-friendly, kosher, low fat, and we add a fresh banana. Our coffee beans are harvested from the Hawaiian Islands (Kona, Molokai, Kauai)
I am most proud of our products and our Aloha Spirit. I was stationed in Hawaii for three years in the military and understand island attitude. Maui Wowi’s business model is steeped in the values I experienced in Hawaii with the ohana (family) concept and support. Additionally, our smoothies and coffees are delicious!
What sets us apart is the Hawaiian vibe and products. There is not much representation of Hawaiian Flavor in Houston, but Maui Wowi of South Houston is here to change that.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I do have a great support system of mentors, supporters (near and far), loved ones and my daughter. She loves Maui Wowi Smoothies and gets excited when it is time to ride with trailer to events. (Shes 4)!
I have other Maui Wowi franchisees in Houston that have a combined total of 25 years in the company. They dole out the knowledge regularly, and I am extremely grateful for them.
Rob and Jean Mclean have been part of Maui Wowi for over ten years. They are primarily at NRG Stadium with 8 locations. They work and sell frozen cocktails at all of the Texans home games, big concerts, and Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo every year and kill it!
Denise McKaskill has been a Maui Wowi franchisee for 15 years and operates out of George R. Brown Convention Center. Not only has she been successful with Maui Wowi, she has two other franchises (Doc Popcorn & Dippin Dots). She has a wealth of knowledge and she is constantly praising my hustle and grind that she has observed.
The Mcleans were essential in getting Maui Wowi of South Houston off the ground. They have given me events, they have expressed the opportunities that maybe the best. They have worked the kinks out and have allowed me to learn from their mistakes. They also have demonstrated what it means to be a boss and what it takes to do big and profitable events. Moreover, are helping me to understand how to be efficient.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.Mauiwowi.com/hana
- Phone: 318-602-0384
- Email: smoothierightthing@gmail.com
- Instagram: MauiWowiofSouthHouston
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/mauiwowiofsouthhouston/
- Twitter: @MauiHouston
Image Credit:
Melvin Gray
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