In Lenoir City, Iliana Saucedo (11) has started her own small coffee business by offering unique flavors and her own personal touch. What makes Saucedo’s story stand out is her dedication to creating something that brings others joy.
Saucedo’s journey into her coffee business wasn’t something she had planned. Instead, it started from encouragement by the people around Saucedo and her love for creating drinks. With support from friends and family, Saucedo found the confidence to turn a simple idea into a business that continues to grow.
“What inspired me to start was everyone around me who supported me and loved my coffee, and I’ll forever be thankful for them. They pushed me more to want to start a business out of it. I have always been a coffee lover myself, but due to some medical factors I can’t drink it very much so being able to provide coffee to others who love it makes me feel better. Honestly, I didn’t even think I was going to start a business. I believe that everything happens for a reason so I think it was just meant to be for me,” Saucedo said.
A major part of Saucedo’s business that sets her apart is Saucedo’s creativity. Saucedo focuses on making flavors that are not commonly found in the area. Making sure customers have something new and exciting to try. Saucedo also makes sure her menu is inclusive by offering non-dairy options for people who may have dietary restrictions.
“What makes my coffee business different is that I have tried to create more flavors that most places in Lenoir City don’t sell. For example I made a flavor called strawberries and cream and it is based on the mexican treat ‘fresas con crema’. I also do offer non-dairy products because as myself who can’t have dairy I wanted to make sure my non-dairy customers feel welcomed to get themselves a sweet treat as well because I know how hard it is to find things I can actually have. I think what also makes mine different is that I do it because I enjoy it not because I want the money or because of a ‘trend’ I do it because I truly do enjoy making new flavors and having people get excited about the next best thing I have to offer,” Saucedo said.
Like any new business owner, Saucedo has faced challenges along the way. One of the biggest has been learning how to manage her time and keep up with demand during busy events. However, she continues to improve and invest in her business to better serve her customers.
“I think the biggest challenge is my timing. As a beginner and a first time business owner it has been something I have had to work on, but luckily I have gotten better at making so many at a time. I will continue to practice on my timing to be more efficient especially when I go to local events with many people. And now that I have invested in a new and improved machine I can come out with better products for my customers,” Saucedo said.
Beyond making drinks, Saucedo hopes her business has a positive impact on others. She wants her coffee to brighten people’s days and give them something to look forward to. Saucedo also has big goals for her business and wants to make sure to grow her presence in her community.
“For the future, I want to hopefully expand my little business. I love making people’s day better and I hope to continue doing so. I want and plan to stay mobile so I don’t think I have any plans on opening a coffee shop anytime soon but I do want to get a little truck or mobile cart to show up at local events in the area. That could include farmer markets, car shows, church events and more. I do have a social media account that I plan to keep posting to promote and market my business. In the end, I hope this little idea comes to something more and I hope whoever orders from me continues to enjoy my products!” Saucedo said.
