How We Built Momentum in Our First Year: Lessons Learned from Puro Tepache

As I reflect on the first year of building Puro Tepache, I’m filled with gratitude, excitement, and more than a few lessons learned. Like most new entrepreneurs, I entered this journey with big dreams and high hopes, but the reality of running a business is full of surprises—some rewarding, others challenging. Looking back, our first year was a roller coaster ride, but it was also an incredible learning experience that has set the stage for what’s to come.

I want to share a few key lessons we learned as a team and how we plan to build on the momentum we’ve gained.

1. Stay True to Your Why

When we started Puro Tepache, we had a clear purpose: to share a drink that reflects our community, culture, and values. Tepache is more than just a beverage; it's a symbol of connection and tradition. While there have been many opportunities to pivot and chase trends, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of staying true to your original mission.

Your “why” is the foundation of everything. It’s what keeps you grounded during tough times and what draws your customers in. For us, focusing on creating an authentic product that reflects our roots has helped us stand out in a crowded marketplace.

2. Embrace the Learning Curve

Starting a business is full of unknowns. In the beginning, I thought I had a solid grasp on the basics, but nothing prepares you for the real-world complexities of production, distribution, marketing, and customer service. Every challenge, from supply chain issues to developing new products, was a new lesson.

The key is to embrace the learning curve. It's okay not to know everything, but you have to be willing to learn quickly, pivot when necessary, and stay curious. Mistakes happen, but they’re not failures—they’re lessons that help you refine and improve.

3. Community is Everything

One of the most valuable things I’ve discovered is the power of community. Puro Tepache was born from a desire to give back to the community, and in return, the community has been our biggest support system. Whether it’s through partnerships, local events, or simply word-of-mouth, we’ve seen firsthand how important it is to build relationships with those around us.

We’ve been fortunate to have a strong local presence, and as we move into year two, we’re focusing even more on strengthening these ties. A business is only as strong as the community it serves, and this mutual support has been a game-changer for us.

4. Flexibility is Key

This year has taught us the importance of staying flexible. There were times when things didn’t go as planned—unexpected delays, product tweaks, or shifting market conditions—but being adaptable helped us stay on course.

Flexibility isn’t just about changing your strategy when things go wrong; it’s about always being open to new ideas and approaches. For us, this meant jumping into co-packing solutions when the opportunity arose, even though it wasn’t part of our original business plan. It turned out to be one of the most significant opportunities for growth we didn’t see coming.

5. Celebrate the Small Wins

Entrepreneurship can feel like a marathon, and it’s easy to get caught up in the big-picture goals. But one of the most important lessons we learned this year is the value of celebrating small wins. Whether it was landing our first big order, receiving positive customer feedback, or simply getting through a challenging week, these moments are the fuel that keeps us going.

Recognizing these achievements not only boosts team morale but also reminds us that progress is being made, even when the road feels long. Every small step forward is worth acknowledging.

Building on Our First Year

As we look ahead to year two, we’re excited to build on the momentum we've gained. With a deeper understanding of our customers, clearer processes in place, and a focus on growth, we’re ready to take Puro Tepache to new heights. The lessons we’ve learned have prepared us to expand, not just in terms of product offerings, but also in how we serve our community.

The journey is just beginning, and we’re grateful to everyone who has been a part of it so far. Here’s to many more seasons of growth, learning, and shared success!

Kevin Rodriguez

Cofounder/COO Puro Tepache