Have you ever had an idea that you just couldn't shake? Something that kept you up at night and fueled your passion during the day? That's exactly how it started for one ambitious entrepreneur who took a simple idea and turned it into a thriving business...
Starting from Scratch
It all began with a spark of creativity, a LOT of hard work, and endless perseverance. I had a vision for a product that didn't exist yet, that had the potential to help millions of people.... so I set out to create it- from scratch! From countless recipes, to designing prototypes to testing different packaging materials, every step was a labor of love, sweat, and tears.
Turning Dreams into Reality
5 years ago Dan made a decision that would change his life forever when he decided to launch VIBAL ENERGY TEA. But before that, it took almost 5 years of dedication and perseverance behind the scenes (with work always "gettin in the way" as I saw it...).
The Diagnosis that changed it all
Starting an energy tea company was always just an idea, until one fateful doctor visit that changed everything. With a grandfather that had had diabetes, as well as an uncle on another side of the family - hearing that I was next was a tough pill to swallow. But I didn't just accept it as fact - although the odds were not in my favor! I decided at that moment to course-correct ASAP. I started cutting sugar, cutting carbs, getting more steps in, stretching, going to the gym, drinking more water, and brewin' up my own energy blends to keep me going to stay consistent again, and again...Â
The weight that was worth the wait
After loosing almost 50 lbs (44 to be exact), I finally started to feel like myself again. It was because I told myself that "I am an athlete." Wondering, what would an athlete eat... I ate healthy. Wondering what would an athlete do... IÂ exercised. Again and again. I became what and who I thought about. I reversed my numbers, and my energy teas saved my life.
Who else can I help?
As a Certified Food Scientist with a budding career in the snack food industry, I had to look myself in the mirror - literally. Look how I saved myself? Who else can I help? Can I help them doing what I'm doing now? The answer was millions of people, and not here. I realized I had to brew up VIBAL and help others also live a healthier, more balanced lifestyle - and my new personal ethos and manifesto was born (thanks in large to a very wise friend!).
Did you know 1/3 adults in the United States are estimated to be pre-diabetic, and 80% of them are NOT even aware! That's about 80 million adults in the united states!
Getting serious before going all-in
In fall 2019, I got serious about VIBAL and began really working tirelessly on the product - almost everyday when I got home from work.... I finally made a factory acceptance test, and then the product was finally ready to hit the market! (or close enough!) But the journey was far from over... I've faced countless challenges along the way, from completely re-designing prototypes, to securing new suppliers, and most challenging- always finding the faith to continue on... But I refused to give up on the dream.
Weathering the Storm
Just when things were looking up, disaster struck. A global crisis hit, threatening to derail everything I had sacrificed and all the hard work I had put in. But instead of backing down... I doubled down. I pivoted strategy, adapted to the new normal, and emerged stronger than ever.
Breaking into the Big Leagues
With endless determination, hustle, and a bit of "luck," the product eventually caught the attention of a major retailer: Shoprite! This was "the big break" I had been manifesting for so long... Negotiations were tough, but we secured a deal that would change the course of my business (and life) forever...
Never Stop Optimizing
Through all the ups and downs, one thing remains constant: optimization. As we continue to grow and push the boundaries of what was possible or a tiny but mighty beverage start-up, we've made sure to continuously get feedback and optimize along the way. From everything from bottle material, to label design, to sweetness and flavor and everything in between - we are constantly taking feedback, taking notes, and making plans or the next batch of latest and great energy teas or you all!Â
So, the next time you have a crazy idea that seems impossible, remember this story... With passion, perseverance, and a whole lot of grit, you too can turn your dreams into reality. Who knows, maybe one day you'll be the one opening up your first big box retail chain!
Expanding Horizons
As the business continuous to grow, so are the opportunities. I decided to take a leap of faith and made a commitment to keep expanding my horizons, stay open minded, and continue to grow. At the end of year 5 things are started to explode in ways I could only have imagined... In fact, in just the last 3 months alone the amount of doors that have opened are unbelievable. It's been an extremely risky move, every step of the way. But with unwavering faith, we will continue to rise to our highest possible vibes. And with your help, VIBAL will slowly continue to became a household name and help millions of people nationwide boost their vibes!