Chantel Jiroch: Juicing her way to millions

What happens when you give a juicer to a hard-working mom with dreams of inspiring health and wellness in others? You get the Lucky Lotus Juice Bar. “Lucky Lotus is an artistically inspired labor of love,” says founder and owner Chantel Jiroch. “Our aim is to encourage the public to embrace the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. We also wanted to connect Atlanta’s growing community of like-minded and health-conscious go-getters. Above all, we hope to empower people from all walks of life to discover their body, mind, and spirit connection.” With those reasons in mind, Chantel created a plan. “The recipe is simple,” Chantel explains. “A delicious menu of smoothies, juices, and Acai bowls. A laid back, creatively inspired, down-to-earth environment, and bold flavors anyone can enjoy. We are firmly rooted in the belief that without our health, we are nothing. This philosophy is at the heart and soul of everything we do.” Chantel started her juice journey 10 years ago, after she had her daughter, Lotus, whom the business is named after. The moment she gazed on her little girl, her entire understanding of love was re-defined. What legacy would she leave for Lotus? She knew immediately—her love and passion for a healthy mind, body, and soul. This is the passion that continues to drive Chantel with every squeeze, mixture, and blend. Now a mother of two, this momtrepreneur is not holding back as she provides delicious plant-based smoothies, acai bowls, and cold pressed juices to men, women, and children. It’s summertime and the heat is on! Grab a cold juice at the Lucky Lotus Juice Bar and listen to the amazing businesswoman behind it all. Best of all, she makes healthy look possible. VIP: How did you get so passionate about juicing? CHANTEL: It was a natural progression for me. As a dancer growing up, I’ve always been health conscious. I moved to Los Angeles after college and began to live a holistic lifestyle. Once I became a mother, I knew I wanted to share that same way of eating with my daughter and juicing was the easiest way to introduce her to it. When she turned two, we started making juice recipe videos on YouTube. As our page grew, so did the idea of opening a juice bar and I’ve been in business 10 years now. VIP: What are some of the biggest misconceptions about juicing? CHANTEL: “Juices don't contain enough protein.” This is the biggest misconception I’ve heard from customers over the years. Anyone concerned with their intake of protein while on a juice cleanse can add healthy ingredients like plant-based protein powder, chia, or hemp seeds. Juicing allows you to get a full spectrum of nutrients. Most animals get their protein from plants, where all protein originates. In fact, some of the largest and strongest animals on the planet, including elephants, rhinos, horses, and gorillas, are herbivores. VIP: Tell us about your favorite juice recipes. CHANTEL: My favorite recipes are usually green based. I always start my day with kale, banana, blueberries, lemon, chia seeds, vanilla protein powder, and water. It’s better than coffee for sustainability and energy. For kids, my go to is banana, almond butter, strawberries, and almond milk. This is a classic PB&J. My favorite form of detoxing incorporates intermittent fasting. Giving your body a moment to digest last night’s meal and regroup, while drinking lots of water and lemon is the best form of self-care and a great way to detox. VIP: How were you able to pivot during the pandemic with Lucky Lotus Juice Bar? CHANTEL: Fortunately, we were only closed for 2 months. I received a lot of support from the city, and our customers, to help keep the doors open. The pandemic was a teachable moment as a small business owner. As a result, we are currently in the process of launching a juice truck next month, as well as a ready-to-blend smoothie kit that will ship to your doors this fall. VIP: What are 3 tips for running a successful brick and mortar business post pandemic? CHANTEL: First, I would say be creative with your brand. Customers are constantly looking for a unique experience, and a delicious meal to tell their friends about. Next, engage with people online. Social media has been a great way for me to connect with followers and hear what they want from us. It’s also a great way to have fun with your business. Finally, I try not to take things too seriously. My business is a representation of me and my personality. VIP: What is the most important lesson you’ve learned since becoming an entrepreneur? CHANTEL: Entrepreneurship is like a rollercoaster of emotions. One day you may feel like nothing can stop you, and the next day you feel like a complete failure. It’s in those moments that you remind yourself why you’re doing what you do. My career is my passion, and it challenges me every day which is what I love the most. VIP: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you? CHANTEL: That I’m terrified of flying. I refuse to put my feet on the floor during take-off, and I’ve walked off of a plane twice, right before they shut the doors. Fun Facts Favorite quote? “If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else.” Favorite movie? Big Fish. Coffee or tea? Coffee. Beaches or mountains? Beaches. I’m a Jamaican/Florida girl. Chantel’s Favorite Smoothies Complete Protein: Strawberry, Banana, Almond Butter, Hemp Seeds, Dates, Vanilla Protein, and Almond Milk. Kale Quencher: Mango, Pineapple, Kale, Lime, Basil, Spirulina, and Apple Juice. VIP Magazine was happy to share in the life of this powerhouse mom and entrepreneur. You can connect with Chantel on Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube . For a healthy summer treat, you can also visit any of her locations at Ponce Midtown and Kefi Buckhead, Atlanta, Georgia. Click & Visit https://luckylotusjuice.com