In a heartwarming episode of the “Leave Your Legacy” show, host Kenyon Murray sits down with Jerry Vasquez and Tyler Tiecke, the dynamic duo behind Estella’s Fresh Mex. Their journey from salsa kings to restaurant moguls is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and the importance of family and community connections.
Jerry Vasquez and Tyler Tiecke’s story begins in Muscatine, Iowa, where Jerry helped his mom open their first restaurant at the age of 20. Fast forward 20 years, and Estella’s Fresh Mex has become a staple in Iowa City, known for its fresh, delicious food and welcoming atmosphere. Jerry’s entrepreneurial spirit and Tyler’s keen business sense have been the driving forces behind their success.
The Power of Hard Work and Dedication
Jerry and Tyler’s journey is a prime example of how hard work and dedication can turn dreams into reality. Starting with a small salsa business, they expanded to selling their salsa in local stores and eventually opened their first restaurant in 2017. Their relentless effort and passion for what they do have been key to their success.
Jerry recalls working long hours and making sacrifices to ensure the success of their business. “We were bottling our own salsa, putting labels on the salsa, and taking them to the stores ourselves. It was a lot of hard work, but we loved every minute of it,” he shares.
Balancing Family and Business Responsibilities
For Jerry and Tyler, family is at the heart of everything they do. Both men have found ways to balance their demanding business responsibilities with their family lives. Jerry, who had his first child at 36, emphasizes the importance of spending quality time with family. “I built up all that time in the early years so that now I can spend more time with my family. It’s all about being intentional with the time you have,” he says.
Tyler echoes this sentiment, crediting Jerry for helping him find a balance between work and family. “Jerry always makes sure we take care of our families. He reminds me to take breaks and be present with my family. It’s about making sure you’re happy at home so you can be happy at work,” Tyler explains.
Embracing NIL Opportunities
One of the unique aspects of Jerry and Tyler’s business strategy is their embrace of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities. By partnering with University of Iowa athletes, they have created a strong connection between their restaurant and the local community. This innovative approach has helped Estella’s Fresh Mex stand out and attract a loyal customer base.
“We always wanted to work with the athletes and give them a platform to express themselves. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see these young people grow and succeed,” Jerry says.