Texas Border Business –
By Roberto Hugo Gonzalez
It was 2008 when the U.S. economy started to melt down due to the Wall Street problems; Viola Bazan, a Mission businesswoman, was successfully building homes when she had to stop as most builders did.
Many of you that have been in the Valley remember how the economy slowed down business activity in the area, but in the case of Viola it was different. She immediately looked for other opportunities to start doing business again.
At that time, her daughter called her from another state and told her about a business that she should see. “Mom there’s a business that I would like for you to put it in Texas,” the daughter said. Since Viola was eagerly looking for a new business venture, she never hesitated and flew out to see the proposed business.
Viola said that she liked what she saw and came back with new ideas but decided to design her own model. “I came back to the Valley and looked for a location, designed it, decorated it, and came up with the name of Exotic Berries Frozen Yogurt.” She said, “It’s very good, and homemade; everything is made from scratch.”
Viola describes her business as a very excellent yogurt down here in the Valley. She is proud to say that the people from Texas Monthly magazine came down to see her for an interview.
Can we see the interview? “Yes, I have it against the wall.” She said, “Texas Monthly also sent me a certificate. I am very honored for them to come to my store.”
Viola said that her yogurt is made from scratch and it’s done daily two, three times a day. She makes more than 30 flavors; with 16 flavors offered at one time. She added, “That is why I rotate all the flavors.”
Today Viola has one store, but she plans to have 100 in Texas, other U.S. states, and in Mexico. Currently she runs one store with 3 people for customer service and 1or 2 for administration. Her challenges are to make her business even better so it can be the best in town.
Viola was born in Rio Grande City and Mission is her hometown. She said, “I decided to stay here because of my family. My parents, Miguel Bazan and Elvira Molina, have 10 kids and they all live in the Valley.” Her mother was the disciplinarian. She learned the value of hard work and honesty from her dad.
Viola attended El Faro School in Sullivan City; it is a Christian school.
How do you deal with stress? “I like to meditate,” this hobby helps her to relax.
What gives you satisfaction? “That my business is very prosperous,” she said. Viola Bazan is the owner and creator of Exotic Berries Frozen Yogurt located at 5025 West, Expressway 83, Suite 160 in McAllen. She is a proud member of the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce. TBB
