The Entrepreneurial Journey of Kayla Schoonover and Zachery Uzlik: From Concept to Success
Kayla Schoonover and Zachery Uzlik, a dynamic duo, embarked on an entrepreneurial journey fueled by their desire for independence. Their venture, Dirty Soda Company, emerged from a simple yet innovative idea: customizing sodas with flavored syrups, creating a unique and profitable business. Since its launch last July, the company has flourished, captivating customers across western Wisconsin with its distinctive offerings.
The couple's initial vision was to establish a mobile business, eventually transitioning to a physical store and trailer. However, the reality of entrepreneurship soon set in, demanding an immense commitment. Seven-day workweeks became the norm, highlighting the challenges of running a new business. Despite the demanding nature of their work, Schoonover reflects on the experience with a mix of satisfaction and surprise.
"It's had its challenges, its ups and downs, just like any new business. It's a lot more work than we thought it was," she admits. The behind-the-scenes tasks, from graphic design and social media promotion to recipe development and menu creation, were a revelation. The startup costs and the unexpected time commitment for these tasks were the biggest surprises, requiring a strategic approach to trial and error.
Their success is evident in the popularity of their recipes, such as Sprite and Dr. Pepper mixes, and their presence at popular locations like Chippewa Falls' Market on the River and New Richmond's Market at the 45th. By targeting specific demographics, they've built a loyal customer base, even in the college town of Menomonie. The long hours are justified by the joy of seeing their business thrive and customers returning for more.
Looking ahead, the Dirty Soda Company has ambitious plans for 2026. They aim to open a trailer and a storefront, expand their product line, and enhance customer engagement through giveaways and scavenger hunts. Strong customer support is credited as a key factor in their success, and the positive feedback they receive is a major source of satisfaction and motivation.
The journey has been transformative, from the initial nervousness of selling their first drink to the current satisfaction of witnessing their business grow. The ability to put in the work and see it pay off, with customers driving long distances to return for more, is the ultimate motivator. As they continue to innovate and engage their customers, Schoonover and Uzlik's story serves as an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance and creativity in entrepreneurship.
