Meet Laura Pelaez

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Laura Pelaez. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Laura below.

Laura, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?

My optimism is deeply rooted in the migrant spirit. As someone who has experienced the journey firsthand, there’s an innate belief that something better always awaits on the other side. It’s the hope that fuels countless individuals to leave familiar shores and embark on uncharted territories.

Moreover, looking back at my journey, I’ve encountered numerous challenges that seemed insurmountable at the time. Yet, through perseverance and resilience, I’ve overcome them. This collective experience of overcoming adversity has instilled in me a profound understanding that challenges are often stepping stones to greater opportunities.

In the realm of entrepreneurship, this optimism is essential. It’s the driving force behind innovation, risk-taking, and the relentless pursuit of solutions. I believe that by sharing this perspective, we can inspire others to see challenges not as obstacles, but as catalysts for growth and success.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

Kronchy is more than just a food brand; it’s a passion project born out of a shared love for authentic, flavorful food. Four years ago, my husband and I were on quest for delicious, convenient meals that satisfied our cravings without compromising our health. When we couldn’t find the perfect option, we decided to create our own solution.

Kronchy was born from this desire. Our precooked, frozen arepas are a labor of love, crafted with high-quality ingredients to deliver a burst of authentic Colombian flavors in minutes. We’re committed to making mealtime easy and enjoyable for everyone, offering a variety of gluten-free options that cater to different tastes.

What excites us most is the opportunity to share our passion for food with the world. We’re thrilled to announce that this fall, we’ll be opening our first brick-and-mortar store, where customers can experience the full Kronchy experience. It’s a dream come true to be able to share the rich flavors of Colombia and Mexico with our community.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Reflecting on my journey, three key elements have been instrumental to my success: networking, customer service, and financial management.

Networking has been invaluable in building relationships with industry peers, mentors, and potential customers. It’s through these connections that I’ve gained invaluable insights, secured partnerships, and expanded my reach.

Customer service is the cornerstone of any successful business. Understanding and exceeding customer expectations has been crucial in building a loyal customer base and fostering positive word-of-mouth.

Finally, a strong grasp of financial management is essential for sustainable growth. From budgeting to forecasting, financial acumen has enabled me to make informed decisions and allocate resources effectively.

For those embarking on their entrepreneurial journey, I strongly recommend seeking a mentor. A mentor can provide guidance, share their experiences, and offer invaluable support. Additionally, immersing yourself in your industry, attending industry events, and actively engaging on social media platforms can significantly enhance your networking abilities. Lastly, prioritizing financial education and seeking advice from financial experts can lay a solid foundation for your business.

Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?

Countless individuals and organizations have contributed to our journey, but the invaluable support of the entrepreneurial ecosystem has been instrumental. Mentors, industry experts, and fellow entrepreneurs have shared their wisdom and experiences, guiding us through challenges and inspiring us to reach new heights.

Leveraging resources available to small businesses has been crucial. Organizations like the Latin American Association, the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and JP Morgan Chase for Small Businesses and the Atlanta Hawks, have provided essential tools, networks, and financial support. Their commitment to fostering entrepreneurship has been invaluable to our growth.

Establishing these partnerships have opened doors to new opportunities and expanded our reach. By surrounding ourselves with a supportive network, we’ve been able to build the skills, knowledge, and resilience necessary to succeed.

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