Today I want to tell you a story. A true story that I hope will inspire you as much as it did me! It is a story about courage, hard work, family, and popcorn! It is the story behind YOPOP Etc.! Have you ever heard of it? Me either, that is until last week and boy am I glad I discovered this little gem! YOPOP Etc. is a family owned business that began in 1985 all because a lady by the name of Linda had to do something for her and her daughter to survive.
Linda was 27 years old and found herself with a baby and a husband who left her. She filed for divorce and signed a lease on a space for a yogurt/popcorn/sandwich shop and would you believe the very next day she found out she was pregnant again! A day after she took a leap of faith! Imagine how scary that must have been? But for Linda it was ok.
Why? Linda was raised in a family of 5 girls and at the ripe young age of 16 her father said it’s time to get a job! So Linda would go to school, cheer at night, and get up early in the morning and wait tables at I HOP! Hindsight I bet she would tell you her work ethic is all because of the tough love of her parents. Parents who loved her, but also knew the importance of a job and contributing to your family and society. Because of that she was able to rise to the occasion back in 1985 and make the dream of her own store come true and it is still going strong! And it is truly a family affair! Her daughter Angela works with her as well as her father Tom, her son Randy, and on occasion other family members if she needs them, and they have popcorn down to an art! They make it there at the store so it is fresh and it is so competitively priced compared to the popcorn stores you see in the mall. The yogurt portion has left as it was more of a night time and weekend gig and that is really not what she wants. She still has delicious lunches, catering, AND she is a Honey B Ham and Turkey supplier! When I found this out I was so excited! I asked her point blank if she has lines and she said absolutely not! You guys I am telling you this is a home run! Not only is Honey B Ham so much better than Honey Baked but no lines! Can I get a what! What! And the turkey FYI is cajun and oh my so good! Along with all the deliciousness Linda has chocolates that they make themselves and a slew of gifts and treats. You really should take the time to stop by, but if you can’t you can always call in and she will deliver!
When I walked in I immediately started thinking this is a gold mine for medical and pharmaceutical sales reps. You can get your lunches catered AND add some flare with a gift, or chocolate, or popcorn! If your child needs spirit gifts, Linda is your girl! If you need to ship LOVE to your college kid during exams or rush, I am telling you they have what you need. Babysitter gifts, Bosses, Secretaries, Teachers, Big Sis/Little Sis, you name it she’s got something! I promise. So do yourself a favor and familiarize yourself with YOPOP Etc. You will be glad, Linda will be glad, and my heart will be full!
