Today we’d like to introduce you to Tabatha Abshire.
Hi Tabatha, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My mom used to always be behind the camera or creating things by hand so I would say I get my creative nature from her. I taught myself photography and it has always been a passion of mine. I did a lot of work with Modern Notoriety, Finish Line, Puma, Adidas and a few different restaurants in Chicago. I met my husband, Myles, and we decided to move to Houston without knowing many people. We decided to buy into a franchise from New York City called 16 Handles, which is a very popular frozen yogurt/ice cream dessert location.
We wanted to become part of the community and find ways to make Houston feel like home and what a better way to do so than to also be able to give back to the city. I am very excited to be able to use my creative skills for our own business and host future events for the community.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Being in a new city is always challenging but we’ve built some amazing relationships that has made it a great experience. Never ending learning curves with a new business and how the food and franchise business works.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
16 Handles was founded in 2008 as New York City’s first self-serve frozen dessert shop. With 16 rotating flavors and endless toppings bar at every shop, 16 Handles believes that quality and deliciousness go hand in hand. Our array of flavors includes better-for-you frozen yogurt, all-natural ice cream, and the best vegan options on the market—like oatmilk soft serve and real fruit sorbets.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Although we weren’t open during COVID-19, we have learned from other businesses that being able to pivot is very important. Circumstances like COVID and hurricanes heavily impacted the future of many companies. We want to plan properly and have ongoing conversations with our team members to better suit them with the tools and knowledge of what to do in those cases. Giving back to the community and building rapport with each person we come in contact with is something my husband and I are firm believers in.
It is important to spend time with friends, family, and loved ones because we don’t know when we won’t have the opportunity to spend time together. We as humans need human connection and tend to take that time for granted. Being present and having a healthy work-life balance is so critical.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tabatha-abshire.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tabbyabshire/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/16handlesmissouricity
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/16handles_missouricityhtx/ & https://16handles.com
Screenshot
Image Credits
16 Handles
