BACKGROUND

Adrianna’s journey into the boba business began unexpectedly while she was working as a wildland firefighter during the Dixie Fire. She tried boba for the first time and became quickly obsessed with perfecting the drink. She started making boba at home for friends and family, and their encouragement eventually led her to pursue the idea of turning it into a business.

Founded by Adrianna in December 2022, Boba Monster initially began as a mobile boba stand, serving at local events and festivals like the Oyster Festival and Friday Night Markets. The business gained early traction, and by May 2024, Adrianna was able to secure a permanent location, hiring three employees to help run the store. As a first-time business owner, Adrianna faced uncertainty about where to start and the fear of taking the leap. The process was overwhelming, but the SBDC’s guidance helped pave the way, giving her confidence to move forward.

Eventually, Adrianna was able to secure a startup loan, which allowed her to hire employees and grow her business. This support was key in transforming her boba stand into a full-fledged business. Adrianna mentions that the most valuable assistance came from working closely with Melanie to understand the true cost of goods sold (COGS). This insight was crucial in helping Adrianna set realistic pricing, manage costs, and ensure the business’s financial health.

RESULTS

Boba Monster is now a successful business, growing from a small event stand to a popular storefront in downtown Arcata. Adrianna’s journey from firefighter to business owner, supported by the SBDC, shows her determination and passion. With the help of mentors like Melanie Barnett, she gained the knowledge needed to thrive. Today, Boba Monster continues its service, offering delicious drinks to the community.