Rising Stars: Meet Mark Brown of East Side

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Brown

Hi Mark, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
The Story Behind My Lemonade

“My love for making drinks started when I was just a kid, My Father would always say “Mark go make the Kool-Aid.”so from there on my job at family gatherings was to make the Kool-Aid, and I took it seriously. I’d experiment with different flavors, always trying to create something new and exciting. Over time, I got really good at it—so good that everyone started looking forward to the drinks I’d make.

As I grew up, that passion for mixing flavors didn’t fade. I began to focus on perfecting lemonade, playing around with the balance of tart and sweet until I found the perfect blend. That’s how my lemonade was born—rooted in those early days of experimenting in the kitchen, driven by a desire to create something refreshing, delicious, and just a little bit special.”

This narrative highlights your passion and the journey from childhood creativity to a successful product, giving customers a personal connection to your lemonade.
Thanks

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Overcoming Challenges in My Lemonade Business

“Building my lemonade business hasn’t always been a smooth ride. One of the biggest challenges has been dealing with delays in getting the ingredients I need. Fresh lemons, especially, are crucial to the quality of my lemonade, and there have been times when unexpected delays have thrown a wrench in my plans. Whether it’s a supplier issue or shipping problems, these delays have tested my patience and my ability to adapt.

But these struggles have also taught me a lot. I’ve learned the importance of planning ahead, keeping backup suppliers on hand, and staying flexible. There have been times when I had to hustle to find alternatives or adjust my production schedule on the fly. It’s been stressful, but it’s also pushed me to be more resilient and resourceful.

Through it all, I’ve stayed committed to delivering the best lemonade possible. No matter the obstacles, I’ve made sure that the quality of my product never wavers. These experiences have made my business stronger and my lemonade even more special because I know the effort that goes into every bottle.”

This version of your story highlights your perseverance and adaptability in the face of challenges, making your lemonade even more valuable to your customers.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
The Creative Vision Behind My Lemonade Branding

“When it came time to brand my lemonade, I wanted it to be more than just a refreshing drink—I wanted it to tell a story. The brand needed to reflect my journey, from those early days experimenting with Kool-Aid in the kitchen to overcoming challenges in building the business. I wanted every element of the brand to resonate with that personal touch, making it clear that this isn’t just another store-bought beverage, but a labor of love.

The design process started with the name. It had to be something that felt authentic, a nod to my roots, and my dedication to crafting the perfect lemonade. The logo followed, inspired by the freshness of lemons and the playful spirit of my early experiments with flavors. Bright, vibrant colors were chosen to capture the eye and evoke that feeling of a sunny day with a cold drink in hand.

Every detail was carefully considered, from the packaging that reflects the natural ingredients, to the story shared on the label that connects customers to the journey behind the product. The goal was to create a brand that stands out not just for its taste, but for its authenticity and the passion that goes into every bottle.

Ultimately, the branding is about more than just a visual identity—it’s a reflection of who I am and the love I have for what I do. It’s an invitation for customers to share in that experience and enjoy something truly special.”

This approach to branding emphasizes the personal connection and thoughtful creativity behind your lemonade, giving your brand a unique and memorable identity.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
My Perspective on Risk-Taking

“Risk-taking has always been a crucial part of my journey, especially in building my lemonade business. To me, taking risks is about stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the uncertainty that comes with pursuing something you’re passionate about. It’s not about being reckless; it’s about carefully considering your options, trusting your instincts, and being willing to face the possibility of failure to achieve something greater.

When I first started experimenting with different flavors and ultimately decided to create my lemonade, it was a risk. I didn’t know if people would like it, or if it would stand out in a crowded market. But I believed in what I was doing, and that belief pushed me to take that leap. I have to share part of the credit to continue pushing through the weeds with my family dynamics growing up ,it was a very tough road ,however I wouldn’t change a thing.
Along the way, I’ve encountered risks that could have easily set me back—whether it was investing in higher-quality ingredients, expanding production, or even pushing through supply chain delays. Each time, I had to weigh the potential rewards against the risks. But I’ve learned that without taking these chances, I wouldn’t have been able to grow or improve my business.

Risk-taking is also about resilience. It’s about understanding that setbacks are part of the process and that each one is an opportunity to learn and adapt. The most rewarding moments in my business have come from those times when I took a risk and saw it pay off, knowing that I was willing to bet on myself and my vision.

In the end, I see risk-taking as a necessary ingredient for success. It’s what allows you to innovate, push boundaries, and create something truly unique. And for me, it’s been the driving force behind every step I’ve taken in building my lemonade brand.”

This explanation of your views on risk-taking shows your thoughtful approach to challenges and highlights the courage and resilience that have driven your success.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.unclemarkslemonades.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unclemarkslemonades/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unclemarkslemonades
• Youtube: https://youtu.be/FLG1lKucCm0