Today we’d like to introduce you to Gisella Ponti Tacunau
Hi Gisella, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m an 29 year old Argentine girl who moved to the United States just over a year ago with my 2-year-old daughter (now 3). Since I was young, my dream was visit and explore the United States. At 23, I achieved it and took my first trip to New York, Disney, and Miami. From that day on, I fell even more in love with the country and planned to move here many times (just in my mind).
Later, I got pregnant, got married, and my business in Argentina thrived, allowing me to vacation in the United States several times a year. However, moving seemed distant. One day, I gathered the courage to pursue my dream and made the move, convinced this was my place in the world. I knew that if I succeeded in Argentina, I’d have even more opportunities here.
Upon arrival, I obtained my nail technician license and later purchased my beauty salon, named ‘Alma Beauty Salon’ like my daughter.
It’s been and continues to be a daily challenge. I obtained licenses to work independently, and six months after purchasing the salon, I’ve built a loyal client base. Then, an opportunity arose that I couldn’t miss – acquiring my current business, a bubble tea shop in Oakland Park’s heart.
Honestly, I wasn’t familiar with bubble tea culture, but once I discovered it, I wondered why I hadn’t done so sooner! They’re truly delicious, especially if you have kids or teenagers at home – you’ll know what I mean!
However, adults are also pleasantly surprised when they try it – it’s truly delicious! My bubble tea shop has been open for just over a month, but it was already an established business with loyal customers. I work daily (Monday to Sunday) to discover new flavors our customers will love.
This new venture has exceeded my expectations, and I’ve always been someone who sees opportunities and takes them, despite my fears. Just one year after arriving in the country, I’m proud to have two thriving businesses, which are exactly why I fell in love with this country.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to build my life here and grow daily.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been an easy path, but I learn something new daily, which I truly enjoy. However, it can also be frustrating at times, as you discover there’s always more to learn and I’ve had to make mistakes along the way.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I earned a university degree in Business Administration in my home country, graduating in 2018. My focus was Human Resources, but I gained extensive knowledge of business management. Throughout my life, I’ve launched various ventures and projects, but sales remain my greatest passion.
My childhood playground was the marketplace! With grandma’s guidance, I sold Avon catalogs at 9 and loved every minute (and commission!) of it!
Later, I ventured into clothing resale until discovering my true calling: resale of Apple products in Argentina. For seven years, this business has been my key to success, enabling me to achieve what I have today.
Currently, alongside my Argentine business, I own a beauty salon in Miami, a bubble tea shop in Fort Laudardale, and I’m excited to announce a new venture: bringing one of Argentina’s largest swimwear brands to the US! This significant project thrills me, marking my first partnership, as I’ve been the sole owner of all my previous businesses.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I think the best description of my approach and achievements is “do it with fear, but do it”.
Pricing:
- The price of all our bubble teas is $8
Contact Info:
- Instagram: bubble.tictoctea
