What inspired Laura’s business?

Laura’s business was inspired by a deep-rooted belief in what real food should taste like. Growing up in her family’s farm-to-table restaurant shaped her understanding of integrity, seasonality, and care in food. When she couldn’t find ice cream that reflected those values—free from heavy stabilizers and mass production—she recognized an opportunity to create something different. That longing, paired with her passion for ice cream and Vermont agriculture, drew her back from New York City and sparked the creation of lu•lu.

Business Highlights

Since opening her first scoop shop on Bristol’s Main Street in 2015, Laura has built lu•lu into a standout example of small-batch, farm-to-spoon craftsmanship. The business produces ice cream and goat-milk gelato entirely from scratch using ingredients sourced from Vermont farms. Over time, lu•lu has expanded into wholesale production, invested in new equipment, and strengthened its operational capacity. Beyond growth, the business has become a local anchor—supporting farms, creating jobs for young people, and contributing to a vibrant downtown economy.

How has CWE helped Laura in her journey?

CWE has played a pivotal role in helping Laura move from passion-driven entrepreneurship to strategic, confident leadership. Through programs like Power Forward and Food & Beverage-focused coursework, along with one-on-one consultations, Laura gained clarity around growth, planning, and decision-making. CWE’s mentorship and accountability directly supported major milestones, including securing grants, expanding production, and preparing for future capacity growth. Just as importantly, CWE connected Laura to a community of peers who understand the realities of building a mission-driven business.

How does she feel about owning her own business?

Owning lu•lu fills Laura with a sense of pride and purpose, even as it continually challenges her. The experience is deeply grounding—connecting her daily work to her values, her community, and Vermont’s food system. While the demands of running a small business require resilience and adaptability, the rewards come in seeing the joy the business brings to others. For Laura, the balance of challenge and fulfillment makes ownership meaningful and deeply personal.

How has building her own business changed Laura’s life?

Building lu•lu has reshaped how Laura sees herself and what she believes is possible. The process of creating something from scratch has pushed her to grow in confidence, leadership, and self-awareness. It has expanded her understanding of community, responsibility, and long-term impact. Through both successes and setbacks, the journey has required her to stretch beyond her comfort zone, ultimately strengthening her resilience and sense of direction.

What has creating a business of her own done for Laura?

Creating her own business has given Laura a platform to align her work with her values in a tangible way. It allows her to support local agriculture, provide meaningful employment, and contribute to the cultural and economic life of her town. The business has also deepened her connection to her family, whose support and shared values continue to shape lu•lu’s foundation. More than a career, the business has become an expression of who she is and what she stands for.

She wants you to know this about CWE

Laura wants people to understand that CWE is far more than a business resource—it is a true partner in growth. CWE meets entrepreneurs where they are, offering guidance, belief, and practical tools tailored to real-world challenges. Especially in food and manufacturing, that kind of thoughtful, relationship-based support is rare. CWE creates an environment where entrepreneurs feel seen, supported, and capable of building something bigger than they imagined possible.

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