An entrepreneur’s dream has bubbled into a reality with the official opening of her new business. 

On February 22, the grand opening for the Soda Junction in Cody, Wyoming, commenced, giving fizzy drink fans a spin on the new flavored beverages. While the outside suggests the business was brought up with ease, behind the scenes suggests differently. 

Entrepreneur Ashlie Winter put out fire after fire until her dream business became a reality. Although the process was not without its challenges, Winter felt rewarded for the experience. 

“The Soda Junction has been a dream of mine for almost 6 years,” Winter said. “If you know me, you know my obsession with soda! But after becoming a mom, I wanted to be able to make some extra income so I could be home with my boys more. I have also always been a dreamer when it comes to business ideas. Starting something from scratch and watching it grow is so amazing and rewarding.”

The rocky path to a successful business was certainly prominent in Winter’s case. However, she left no stone unturned when it came to successfully managing every conflict that came her way. 

“The process of starting most businesses is extensive,” Winter said. “In this case, there was way more to it than I ever imagined. In my mind, I was going to buy a kiosk, place it in a visible spot, buy inventory, and get started. Well, that was not the case. First, we had to start with getting all of the permitting from the City of Cody. This process alone took months to accomplish… Luckily every roadblock that came my way was an opportunity for me to learn a valuable lesson and know what to do moving forward when I open a second location.”

The soda junction is not the only ball Winter is juggling. As a mom of two, a supportive wife and hairstylist, she manages more than her customers see. 

“I do not know one person who is an entrepreneur that has this balance figured out,” Winter said. “In conjunction with The Soda Junction, I have another business that I work to provide a steady income for my family. I work Monday-Wednesday as a hairstylist and then nights and the remainder of the week I work on things for The Soda Junction.” 

Winter notes her appreciation for the support of her other half, Jordan Winter. The dynamic duo works together to balance demanding jobs while still keeping their two son’s best interests at heart. 

“I will tell you that I would not be able to do this at all without my husband’s support,” Winter said. “He also has a very demanding job, but we work together to make sure we put our family first and that our boys are taken care of no matter what. The best way, in my opinion, to figure out a good work/life balance is to figure out your priorities and go from there. This will look different for every person and every family.”

In addition to support from her husband, Winter’s employees share her enthusiasm for the business’s future. 

“My favorite thing about working there is the creativity and the fun environment created by my coworkers and customers,” Soda Junction employee Ryli Belliston said. “I would encourage everybody to stop by the Soda Junction while they’re in Cody. It’s a triple threat—fun, friendly, and amazing craft sodas!”

Another employee, Eliza Clark was looking forward to her employment at the Soda Junction, and the opportunities that would come with it 

“I knew Ashlie Winter would be a great boss, and I was excited to work with friends and connect with new people,” Clark said. “I hope the community keeps supporting us!” 

Ashlie’s vision for the business included a timeless and recognizable aesthetic. As for the process of the soda’s flavors and combinations, months were set aside to achieve carbonation perfection. Winter encourages anyone passionate about opening their own business to take the chance. 

“When it comes to business you need to full send,” Winter said. “The more you prepare the more successful you will be. You are never too young or too old to start something new. If you work hard and believe in yourself, people will follow your lead. Always remember it is going to take way longer and cost more than you expect it will.”