Story

In the summer of 2023, our family embarked on a journey that would change our lives forever. My 10-year-old son, inspired by the vibrant mix of vendors at the Eagle Mountain Farmers Market, expressed a desire to start his own lemonade stand. Little did we know, his simple wish would be the spark that ignited Smash Lemonade, a business that has become a symbol of our fresh start and entrepreneurial spirit. Our story began in the bustling Bay Area, where I spent over 15 years working in construction, including 12 years in a stable yet demanding job. The fast-paced, high-pressure environment provided well for our family but left little room for quality time together. My wife and I often dreamed of a life where work and family could coexist harmoniously. This dream, coupled with a longing for new experiences, led us to the scenic landscapes of Utah. Moving to Eagle Mountain was a leap of faith, but we saw it as an opportunity to start anew. The welcoming community and the slower pace of life were exactly what we needed. It was during one of our family visits to the local farmers market that my son’s entrepreneurial spirit blossomed. The variety of small businesses and the joy of the market atmosphere captivated him, and he eagerly suggested that we start our own lemonade stand. With a background in construction and a passion for creating something tangible, I embraced the idea wholeheartedly. We spent weeks perfecting our lemonade recipe, experimenting with flavors, and designing a brand that reflected our family's vibrant personality and our Bay Area roots. Smash Lemonade was born, not just as a business, but as a manifestation of our family’s new beginning. Our first day at the Eagle Mountain Farmers Market was a whirlwind of excitement and nerves. We set up our modest stand, adorned with bright yellow accents and a hand-painted sign. My son, the heart and soul of our venture, eagerly greeted customers with a smile and a cup of our freshly made lemonade. The community’s response was overwhelming. People loved our product and appreciated the story behind it. Each cup of lemonade we sold represented more than just a refreshing drink; it symbolized our journey, our resilience, and our commitment to building a life that prioritized family and community. The success of Smash Lemonade has exceeded our wildest expectations. What started as a simple lemonade stand has grown into a beloved local brand, known for its unique flavors and our signature "swag" – a blend of Bay Area flair and Utah charm. We have expanded our offerings, participated in more markets and events, and even started a catering service for local gatherings. Receiving this grant would allow us to take Smash Lemonade to the next level. We plan to invest in better equipment, develop new flavors, and enhance our marketing efforts to reach a broader audience. More importantly, it would enable us to continue sharing our story and our lemonade with the wonderful people of Utah, while also teaching our son invaluable lessons about entrepreneurship and the power of following your dreams. Smash Lemonade is more than a business; it’s a testament to the possibilities that arise when you take a chance on a new beginning. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunities we’ve had and are excited about the future. With your support, we can continue to grow, innovate, and inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter where they start. Thank you for considering our story and supporting Smash Lemonade.