Today we’d like to introduce you to Stefanie Lazcano
Hi Stefanie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Over the last 10 years I have spent a lot of time performing live music and sometimes that would mean touring for weeks at a time. Finally, I realized that I needed to do something that could help support me financially while I was on the road, so I thought “Vending Machines”. Once I had the idea, I jumped to it pretty quickly, and with the help of my community connections I was able to secure locations. I got the machines and I immediately opened up “Snack Town”. I did all of the research, I taught myself how to upgrade and maintain the mechanics of the machines, and I am constantly learning the ways of merchandising. At this point I have 6 machines with products ranging from the obvious snacks, to quirky accessories like bolo ties and cosplay wigs, I try to keep it interesting. I really enjoy this endeavor. It’s been nice to serve my community in this way, and I love my new title as “Mayor of Snack Town”, haha.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My biggest obstacle is that I don’t personally know anyone who is seasoned in this type of business. I don’t mind learning things the hard way, or just figuring it out, but sometimes it would be nice to have someone I could get advise from when needed.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Something that sets my vending machine business apart from others is the novelty items that I stock. Obviously I have the classic chips and candy bars, but I love to include things like Tarot cards, dice, and even guitar strings (at the music venue locations). I also make it a point to stock vegan snack items, I have received a lot of appreciation for that. The item that I am most proud of is the “Snack Town Mix Tape”, where I curate a playlist of local music and copy it on cassettes to sell in the vending machine, I am overdue for Vol. 2 (releasing fall 2024).
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Attentiveness is probably the most important key to success in this business. I strive to remain aware of the functionality of each machine, the quality of the products, and the demand of my consumers. I manage everything about this business – so being attentive to all aspects is what makes this successful.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Silky_jo
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lazcano2
- Other: https://honeysaxon.bandcamp.com/
Image Credits
Ellie Alonzo
