Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Joanna Callaway. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Joanna, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Day to day the world can seem like a tough place, but there’s also so much kindness in the world and we think talking about that kindness helps spread it and make the world a nicer, kinder place. Can you share a story of a time when someone did something really kind for you?

My family and I decided to live in Mexico City for one month. Prior to our arrival, our flight was delayed 12+ hours. Now think about that much time at the airport with a 3 and 1 year old. It was INSANE.

Everyone was exhausted when we arrived. We were starving… and decided to have dinner at the food court inside the mall, it was fast and easy. We sat down and ordered our food. The boys were out of control. I had food all over my shirt from attempting to feed them. Let’s just say that this mama was STRUGGLING. I was holding back tears of frustration and exhaustion.

An elderly couple across the food court kept looking in our direction. They gave a smile and a nod. With just that gesture, I was reminded that everything was going to be okay. They left and we continued to eat. When we asked for the check, the waiter told us that someone had paid for our ENTIRE meal!

My heart was so full of gratitude, I couldn’t hold back the happy tears. I truly believed God sent angels that day.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a stay-at-home mom by day and registered nurse by night.

In 2020, I rolled lumpia as therapy to cope with postpartum depression. It made me feel as if my family was there with me. From there, Lady Lumpia ATX was born!

I developed my skills and love for Filipino cooking in Pampanga with my family. Apparently Pampanga is the culinary capital of the Philippines because their food is so delicious…who knew?!

I sell uncooked/frozen lumpia shanghai to the surrounding Austin area once a month! So be sure to subscribe to my email list to get first dibs. I usually sell out pretty fast.

My customers LOVE my lumpia shanghai. The lumpia I make is nostalgic to those who are familiar with the dish. As for those who never had lumpia in their life, it’s like Pringles, “Once you pop, the fun don’t stop!”. No joke…^_^

I’m currently developing an online/in-person Filipino cooking course where students can learn how to cook authentic Filipino meals with me!

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

I didn’t want to go into debt for any business. EVER. The only money I contributed to my business was $50 out of my own pocket. From there, I would rely on pre-orders so I knew exactly how much ingredients and materials I needed to buy.

I would set aside the earned money I made into purchasing the essentials for my business, then just keep slowly building!

Again, I only release my pre-orders once a month.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

I kept my audience involved and presented my “business idea” on my personal social media platform. From there, they helped me decide on a name for my business and were also coming along the journey with me behind-the-scenes.

My advice. Keep it real, we’re only humans. Show your wins, but also show your struggles too. You’d be surprised at your audience and how they are willing to help you out!!!

Contact Info:

• Website: www,joannapcallaway.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/ladylumpiaatx
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/ladylumpiaatx
• Youtube: www.youtube.com/joannapcallaway

Image Credits
Ayuma Photography Griego Films