Buggy Pops captures the flavor of nostalgia

While eating a coconut ice pop in Florida in 2019, an idea rooted in nostalgia sparked for Neomi Negron. Before long, that idea had become a reality with Buggy Pops – the BIPOC woman-owned handcrafted popsicle business. 

“The biggest hurdle I had to overcome was listening to what I call ‘chatter,’” says Negron. “Everyone tells you what you ‘should’ be doing while staying true to yourself and your vision. Turns out that listening to your gut is the best thing you ‘should’ do.”

By trusting her gut, Neomi was able to establish Buggy Pops within the Asheville food scene, allowing them to collaborate with other makers and impact the community.

Check out our full Q&A with Neomi below…

Tell us about your business and the role you play in it. 

Buggy Pops is a handcrafted seasonal popsicle business operating from a mobile trike & cart. Through our pops, we are able to play a part in the Asheville food scene, donate to local nonprofits, and work with other makers in the community. 

What’s a little-known fact or trivia about your business?

A little-known fact about Buggy Pops is that the name comes from calling my daughter Buggy since the day I learned I was pregnant. 

How has your company grown over the years?

Buggy Pops began with just the trike. In year two, we expanded with the card. Currently, we are looking into investing in another setup for vending. 

What was the biggest hurdle you had to overcome?

The biggest hurdle I had to overcome was listening to what I call “chatter.” Everyone tells you what you “should” be doing while staying true to yourself and your vision. Turns out that listening to your gut is the best thing you “should” do. 

Was there ever a time you felt like you had to start over completely?

No, there has never been a time where I have felt I had to start over completely. So far the current business model is working. 

The greatest business advice you’ve been given?

The greatest business advice I was given was by Alexis Walton (Owner/Operator of Layered By Lex):

      “There is enough business in this town for everyone.”

What’s on the horizon?

What’s on the horizon…whatever the universe puts out there for me. I didn’t have a plan and I still don’t.