Becky's Roadside Refreshment

Becky Lloyd is no stranger to making her “someday” dreams turn into “today” realities. In 2019, she and some friends went out for ice cream on a warm summer’s day. Unfortunately, lactose is not friendly for everyone, including Becky. Because of this, she swore that "Someday I am going to open a dairy-free ice cream store.” Alas, come the 2020 pandemic, her ideas incubated into action. Becky started making a business plan, researching recipes and supply companies, and saving my money to purchase startup equipment. Today, she offers 14 dairy-free options and 10 premium dairy ice cream options, becoming The Upper Peninsula's largest locally made dairy-free selection!

Her favorite part about Becky’s Roadside Refreshments that gets her out of bed in the morning? Flavors! Becky says, “I love working to improve existing flavors, come up with new flavors, and finding whole food ingredients that give my products pizzazz. My friends all know the kitchen is my happy place when I am surrounded by ingredients. When I am in the store; it is seeing people smile as they get an Italian Ice for the first time or get excited about how many dairy-free options are available. It is wonderful to meet new people or say hello to my regulars who come every week. Everyone quickly has a favorite, and I love hearing how much they enjoy my products. I strive to provide exciting and memorable flavors that will enhance summertime memories. It all starts in the kitchen.” Finding the moments that make all the hard work worthwhile is key to keeping your goals clear and your business ‘why’ strong. 

Her process, of course, did not come without its obstacles of doubt. Becky explained, “Life is about follow-through. Failure is always looming somewhere, but that won't stop me from trying something new. I firmly believe that regrets are for the things we wanted to do but didn't have the conviction to try.” If you’re considering starting that business idea that’s been on your mind, the best way to start is to surrender to doubt and trust the process!

Becky’s advice goes further than following through on doubt, however. Here are five pieces of advice she would give to other entrepreneurs looking to start a business: 

1. Owning a business is not always a 40-hour work week. It can often be more like 50 or 60 hours. Because of this, your tolerance for risk and failure needs to be high.

2.  Set realistic and conservative financial goals. 

3. Prioritize action-packed incremental steps over the end goal/vision.

4. Start your business with an exit strategy. A business is a financial adventure you choose to embark upon, and you also choose when to close or shut it down.

5. Hire a CPA you can build a relationship with; make sure they know your hard lines and give them permission to have difficult conversations with you for big picture plans.

Accelerate UP was privileged to have worked alongside Becky to help her business goals come to fruition. She explained, “It is great to have someone who has a wealth of knowledge regarding local resources and opportunities. I check in quarterly to assess goals and discuss growth strategy. It's nice to have an ear that is not invested in my business but in the community as a whole. I appreciate that AUP concentrates on building regional business strength and employment opportunities. AUP helps me elevate my business and is a fantastic asset.” Accelerate UP offers free business consulting services to everyone in any stage of their entrepreneurial journey. We meet you where you are to help excel your business.

“AUP helps me grow through connections and learning about new opportunities in grants available or lenders to discuss my options to grow. I appreciate that they supported my decisions rather than pushing for investments for investments sake. I am comfortable with receiving sound advice that works within my parameters and to my strengths.” 

Becky’s journey has been amazing to witness, and we are filled with gratitude to have her as an AUP client and friend. Whenever you’re in need of a tasty, dairy-free roadside refreshment, you know where to go! Visit Becky’s Facebook page @ Becky’s Roadside Refreshment or visit her storefront this summer at 2 Peter White Dr., Marquette, MI.