the story of lem's pops

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Lemyn grew up immersed in the world of business – her dad, Chauncy, owned a boxing gym, and me, her mom, Sarah, ran Spokane Party Bus. And there she was going between the two and taking it all in. So, it was no surprise when, at just five years old, she started dreaming up her own business venture. Instead of a lemonade stand that I thought would be a natural fit given her name, she had her sights set on something even cooler – an ice cream truck.

We brainstormed ideas, I thought just for funsies, but the more I thought about it, the more I just could not find a downside! She could learn basic business skills, people skills, work ethic, the value of money, learn saving and spending, have something to do through the summer and have bonding family time. What started as a playful idea soon became a full-blown plan and it actually made perfect sense! And just like that, Lem’s Pops Ice Cream Truck was born. 

We ordered the perfect little van from Japan and got to work on logos, branding and uniform and truck design while we anxiously waited for it to arrive. When we finally got to pick it up in the Port of Tacoma, we wasted no time customizing it with a freezer inside, a speaker up top for the classic ice cream jingles, and a bright, eye-catching design that most certainly fit right in with the motto Lemyn chose: “We make people smile.”

But then we hit a bump we were not expecting, we quickly realized that kids weren’t outside playing like they used to, and they certainly weren’t carrying cash or cards.  :D So, we had to pivot. Drawing inspiration from the pandemic drive-by birthdays we loved, we decided to bring Lem’s Pops to private parties and events. It was the perfect move! Instead of circling empty streets with full freezers, we started offering our private ice cream truck services to show up to your birthday parties, and within weeks we were finding ourselves at corporate gatherings, road races, weddings and more. I mean, how fun is that?!

Our favorite part by far is watching the kids’ faces light up as they hear that nostalgic ice cream jingle and spot our little truck with the giant popsicle up top, coming to celebrate them! We have had an absolute BLAST building this business with her and now, at 11 years old, Lemyn has become a pro at spreading smiles! A huge thank you to everyone who has supported our daughter’s sweet little business. We can’t wait to see you at the next event ~~ the treats are ready, and so are we!

~Sarah Welliver

Lem's Pops Momager