2021 was the year that I discovered nutrition teas and protein shakes, as I head down my own weight-loss journey. And, I am not the only one, as many of these protein shakes and tea shops have been popping up everywhere.
Kristen Bellico is the owner of the up and coming Brightside Nutrition, which is expected to open in May 2021. Kristen, a former teacher, has found a new career path as a business owner after losing 60 pounds. I got the opportunity to talk to Kristen recently over email to talk about her journey, and her new business.
What inspired you to start Brightside Nutrition?
Prior to COVID, I was a preschool teacher for 4 years. While teaching, I gained a lot of weight and lost a lot of motivation to be the best version of myself. It wasn’t until I found Herbalife Nutrition, got on a nutrition program, lost over 60lbs in 1-2 years and really wanted to share these products with others. As an additional income and side job, I became a health coach and distributor for Herbalife products. When COVID happened, my whole world changed. My preschool shut down and my teaching job came to a halt. However I then had the opportunity to manage a nutrition club in Monroe (Lakeside Nutrition) full-time. I fell in love with the business model and my new life as an entrepreneur. It feels incredible to share good nutrition and wellness with people who, at the time of quarantine and still, appreciate the value of our products.
Where will it be located? Do you have an opening date?
In the summer of 2020, I made plans to move forward opening my own nutritional beverage bar – Brightside Nutrition. I found my ‘dream’ location in the beautiful town of Southbury, CT. Currently, we just passed our rough-in inspection for electrical and plumbing. So we are now able to put in the finishing touches! We are aiming for a mid-May opening! When you come to Brightside Nutrition, our signature combo is a Funfetti Cake shake with a cotton candy fat reducing shot, paired with a Brightside ultimate energy tea.. with flavors of orange, pineapple, and blue blast.
What will be on the menu? What is an athletes menu?
I will be offering a wide variety of meal replacing smoothies, energizing iced teas, protein coffees, and healthy snack frappucinos. We will also have a selection for the ‘every day athlete’, meaning post workout recovery and preworkout boosters.
Can you tell me some of the health benefits from your drinks?
All of our smoothies have a minimum of 24g of plant base protein, 200 calorie base, less than 1% dairy. They carry all the macro- and micronutrients you need in a complete meal. All of our energizing teas are made with green tea, minimum 80mg caffeine with options to enhance with more caffeine. The teas are all sugar-free, made with a stevia sweetener for extra flavor. There will also be the option to enhance with some of our wellness boosters, such as: beauty collagen, probiotic, immunity support, and so much more.
Do you have any nutrition or fitness tips you want to share with readers?
80% nutrition 20% fitness 100% mindset. Eat balanced meals. Stay active. No diets, create a healthy lifestyle. Stay consistent. Small steps in the right direction will lead to big results.These products and my coaching are available at ANY TIME. Every month we run a 21 day challenge to jumpstart the best version of yourself. Starts on the 1st of every month. If you would like to enter or chat about your own customized nutrition plan, you can find me on instagram at @kristenbellico & @brightsidenutrition. Or e-mail me.
Do you have any tips for someone who wants to open their own business?
Stop thinking about all that could go wrong and start thinking about what can go right. There will always be an obstacle in your way testing your commitment to the goal. If you want it bad enough, keep a positive mindset. Have the “it’s no problem” attitude. The positive mindset will set you a part from the rest. Look on the bright side of every situation!!
You can find further information about Brightside Nutrition on Facebook and Instagram. Brightside Nutrition will be located at 220 Main Street in Southbury.
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