Today we’d like to introduce you to Kira Rodriguez-Anderson.
Hi Kira, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been in the hospitality industry for more than 22 years. I started as a server in Southern California, spent time working in restaurants in Hawaii and South Florida, and eventually made my way to the Chicago area.
As my career grew, I moved into restaurant marketing, social media, and content creation, working with a few hospitality groups before deciding to start TwoTop Creative six years ago. Today, I get to help restaurants tell their stories through photography, video, and social media.
At the same time, Gladis Provisions had been a passion project in the back of my mind for years. Inspired by my Cuban heritage and named after my grandmother, it finally came to life this year. It’s been pretty surreal watching something I’ve dreamed about for so long turn into a real business- and even more rewarding seeing my whole family become part of it.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Running a small business means you’re doing a little bit of everything, and a lot of it is figuring things out as you go.
One of the biggest challenges has been balancing work, family, and a growing business. There are plenty of early mornings, late nights, and moments where things don’t go according to plan.
Gladis has been a whole new adventure too. Between permits, equipment, weather, and all the moving parts that come with pop-ups and farmers markets, there’s always something unexpected. But honestly, those challenges have taught me the most and made the wins that much more rewarding.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’ve been in the hospitality industry for more than 22 years, and along the way I taught myself food photography and content creation, which eventually led to launching TwoTop Creative.
Lately, a lot of my heart has gone into Gladis Provisions. What started as a passion project has grown into something much bigger than I ever imagined. My goal is to continue growing through farmers markets and pop-ups, expand into Southwest Michigan, and eventually create a space that celebrates not only Cuban food but also local makers and artisans. I’d love for Gladis Provisions to become a place where community and creativity come together.
What I’m most proud of, though, is that it’s become a true family effort. My husband is behind the sandwich presses, my son has become the go-to guy for our iced café con leches, and my daughter is already brainstorming sticker designs, merchandise, and fun ideas for the brand. (She’s 7!)
Watching each of them find their own role has made the journey even more meaningful.
One of the biggest surprises has been the incredible people I’ve met along the way. Of course, I’ve loved connecting with fellow Cubans, but it’s been just as meaningful meeting people who have traveled to Cuba, spent time in Florida, or simply have their own memories tied to Cuban food. Hearing someone tell me our Cubano reminds them of one they had years ago or that it tastes just like they remember means the world to me.
I’m grateful for all of the friendships, conversations, and connections that have come from this little pop-up. It’s reminded me that food has a way of bringing people together, and I think that’s what sets Gladis Provisions apart.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I think one of the most important qualities for success is being willing to fail. It sounds crazy, but a lot of the things I’ve built, from teaching myself photography to starting up a one-woman agency and launching a food business- came with zero guarantees.
I’ve learned that growth usually happens when you’re willing to take a chance, make mistakes, and keep going anyway. Not everything works the first time, but every setback teaches you something. Being adaptable, staying curious, and not being afraid to try has opened more doors for me than playing it safe ever could
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gladisprovisions.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/gladisprovisions
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/gladisprovisions
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8swaFPs/
Image Credits
Personal Photo of me is by: Summer Brader Photography
