GPP: What does a typical day look like for you, balancing mom life and running your coffee shop?
Carrie: Most days start early, before the sun is up. The mornings are busy with customers, then I’m juggling inventory, employees, and the million little things that come with running a business. In between, I’m answering texts from my kids, planning dinners, or coordinating schedules. It’s a constant back and forth—but I wouldn’t trade it.
GPP: What inspired you to start with a coffee trailer, and how did you know it was time to move into a brick-and-mortar space?
Carrie: Starting with a coffee trailer felt like a manageable way to chase a dream, without taking on huge risk right away. It gave me a chance to learn, grow, and really connect with customers. Once we built a steady following and I saw how much people loved what we were doing, I knew we had outgrown the trailer. Moving into a brick-and-mortar was scary, but it felt like the natural next step.
GPP: How has being a mom shaped the way you run your business?
Carrie: Being a mom has shaped everything. It’s made me more patient, more understanding, and more flexible. I treat my employees like family because I know everyone has things going on outside of work. It’s also made me incredibly driven. I want my kids to see what’s possible when you work hard and go after something you love.
GPP: With five kids and a granddaughter, how do you stay organized and keep everything running smoothly?
Carrie: Honestly, some days it doesn’t feel smooth at all. But I rely on routines, lists, and calendars — lots of them. I keep everything written down and try to stay one step ahead when I can. I’ve also learned to ask for help. You can’t do it all alone, and having a support system makes a huge difference.
GPP: What has been the most rewarding part of owning your coffee shop?
Carrie: The people. Watching customers come in every day, building relationships, and including us as a part of their routine is so rewarding. Seeing something that started as an idea turn into a place people love… that’s really special.
GPP: What challenges have you faced along the way, and how did you push through them?
Carrie: There have been plenty of long hours, financial stress, self-doubt, and just the pressure of balancing everything. The biggest thing that’s helped me push through is remembering why I started. And honestly, just not quitting on the hard days. Some days you just take it one step at a time.
GPP: How do you involve your family in your business, if at all?
Carrie: My family is a big part of my business! Whether it’s physically helping out at the shop, like my daughter-in-law who is a barista, or them giving me their opinions, they’re all involved in so many different ways. I love that they get to see the behind-the-scenes and feel like they’re part of something we’ve built together. Even my son-in-law helps with finances, menu and inventory. My oldest daughter also came up with my coffee shop’s name!
GPP: What advice would you give to another mom who has a dream but feels nervous to start?
Carrie: Start anyway. You don’t have to have everything figured out you just have to take the first step. It’s always going to feel scary, but if you wait until you’re 100% ready, you’ll never begin. Believe in yourself and go for it!
GPP: What’s your go-to coffee order (and has it changed since becoming a busy mom/business owner)?
Carrie: It’s definitely changed. I always go for something iced and easy to grab, like an iced latte with oat milk and a flavor.
GPP: When you’re not at the shop, what are your favorite ways to spend time with your family?
Carrie: I love just being together whether it’s grilling out, hanging by the pool, or game nights. It doesn’t have to be anything big. Just slowing down and spending time with them is what matters most.
Rapid Fire Questions
- Messy bun or hat day? Hat day
- Reheated coffee or no coffee at all? Iced always
- Favorite word to describe your season of life right now? Thriving!
- Sweet treat or savory snack? Savory snack
- Favorite self-care activity? Watching reality TV shows
Carrie Lassiter and her husband, Ryan, have been married for nearly 18 years. Together, they share a beautifully blended family of five adult children: Trevor Lassiter (28) and his wife, Cleo (25); Madison Stacey (27) and her husband, Austin (31); Reid Lassiter (26); Zachary Nelson (25); and Morgan Lassiter (23). They are also proud grandparents to their granddaughter, Mayvis (8). Professionally, Ryan serves as the used car manager at Sandy Sansing Mazda, while Carrie is the owner and operator of The Parking Latte Café, a thriving local coffee shop she built from the ground up.
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