Hi Leslie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My entrepreneurship journey began after I served 11 years in the US Navy, where I developed a strong work ethic and leadership skills. Growing up in a small town in Louisiana, I was always surrounded by a rich culture of seafood and daiquiris, which sparked my passion for food and beverages. After leaving the military, I transitioned into software development but never felt fulfilled in that role.
In 2019, Dayton, Ohio experienced a mass shooting. This life-changing event pushed me to reevaluate my priorities and pursue my true passion—starting a business that reflected my roots and values. I wanted to create something that would not only provide for my family but also uplift my community and build generational wealth.
Drawing inspiration from Louisiana’s vibrant daiquiri culture, I founded Diamond Daiquiris, a mobile daiquiri truck offering refreshing, handcrafted drinks. My goal was to bring a unique product to the Midwest while creating an inclusive, fun atmosphere for all. The business allowed me to merge my love for Louisiana’s culture with my desire to be my own boss and make a positive impact on those around me.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far? The road for Diamond Daiquiris has certainly been filled with both achievements and challenges. Starting a business in the mobile food and beverage industry is no small feat, and for us, it’s been a mix of excitement, hard work, and resilience.
We’ve been impressed with Diamond Daiquiris LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others? Diamond Daiquiris is Dayton, Ohio’s first-ever Louisiana-style Daiquiri and Sno-ball Mobile Food Truck. We’re a business inspired by the rich, flavorful culture of Louisiana, offering handcrafted daiquiris and sno-balls that bring the taste of the South to the Midwest. From classic daiquiris to unique seasonal flavors, we create fun, refreshing experiences that leave a lasting impression on our customers. We serve our drinks in a variety of playful packaging options, like pouches, half-gallon jugs, and branded tumblers, making each visit memorable and Instagram-worthy.
What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to quality, authenticity, and community. We’re not just about selling drinks—we’re about delivering a “taste of the South in every sip” and fostering vibrant social experiences. As a disabled veteran, minority-owned, female operator business, Diamond Daiquiris also carries a powerful story of resilience and dedication.
We’re most proud of how we’ve become more than a business—we’re a positive force in the community. Our customers can find us at local events, festivals, and rallies, where we not only serve our drinks but also create spaces for people to connect and enjoy themselves. Beyond our fun and refreshing beverages, we give back by donating a portion of sales to causes that matter to us, like mental health awareness and community development. We also partner with local businesses, such as placing one of our machines at More Than an Apron in Miamisburg, allowing our daiquiris to reach more people while supporting other entrepreneurs.
For our brand, it’s not just about profits; it’s about creating a legacy. We want readers to know that Diamond Daiquiris is committed to blending great products with purpose. We’re constantly evolving, from adding new flavors to planning long-term expansions through franchising. Ultimately, we hope to bring this authentic daiquiri experience to more cities, carrying our core values of resilience, community, and Southern charm wherever we go.
What I love most about Dayton is its sense of resilience and community spirit. Dayton has a unique character that’s both down-to-earth and deeply connected—people here genuinely support one another, whether it’s in times of celebration or challenge. The city is rich in culture, with local events, festivals, and gatherings that bring people together from all walks of life. This community mindset has made it an incredible place to launch and grow Diamond Daiquiris. I’m constantly inspired by Dayton’s people, who not only embrace small businesses but also show up to support them.
For me, Dayton isn’t just where I do business; it’s home. The city’s history of innovation and perseverance is a source of inspiration, reminding me that no matter the obstacles, there’s always room to build something meaningful here. Dayton’s strong commitment to supporting veterans and minority-owned businesses has also been invaluable, reinforcing that this is a place where dreams are encouraged and nurtured.
5425 Fishburg Rd Dayton, OH 45424