Today we’d like to introduce you to Tamala Pearley.
Hi Tamala, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
My story is one of inspiration and determination. My career started in the oil and gas industry in Louisiana and, through promotion, finished in Northern Washington state. This career spanned over 15 years, and although I was very successful, there was a huge void. I needed more (I wanted to make a difference). I always dreamed of owning my own business but was told it would be impossible because I was a female, African-American, and come from humble beginnings.
In 2013 I began researching franchises. I visited quite a few of them. I noticed that all the customers who came out of ice cream and cookie shops had smiles; I saw families, couples, and friends taking selfies and some smiling as they enjoyed their ice cream. I engaged with some of the employees and thought, here is where I can make a difference, I have the opportunity to inspire and teach work ethic and customer service. I can make a difference. This is it. I reached out to Great American Cookie and Marble Slab Creamery, and the process began. On May 5th of, 2022, my dreams became a reality. I signed my franchise agreement and became the franchise owner of three locations in Austin/Cedar Park/Leander, Texas. What a day!
Presently 90 percent of my employees are high school students from all backgrounds, and this is their first job. I’ve created an environment of positivity and teamwork and a place where they have gained a work ethic and set goals. I’m so proud of them! I began getting involved with the local schools(encouraging the arts) and giving back! I encourage other business owners to get to know their employees and find ways to inspire them. My journey has just begun, but I’m very excited about the future and my team. Although I know they will not be with me forever, it’s ok because I know I’m making a difference every day.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Challenge was funding for this project; luckily, I saved.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Great American Cookie and Marble Slab Creamery?
We are a co-brand ice cream and cookie shop. We specialize in cookie cakes, ice cream cakes, cookies, and ice cream. Our ice cream is homemade(we make it in-house). We have artists that can design anything on cookie cakes. We’re very fortunate to have talented artists.
Please talk to us about happiness and what makes you happy.
Feedback from customers that appreciate the environment we’ve created when they walk into my locations (smiling faces, good products, and great customer service). The appreciation from my employees that enjoy coming to work lets me know I’m doing a good job.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @welovecookiesandicecream
