Women’s Business Center Client Feature: Creole Made Easy, LLC 

We love shining a spotlight on small business owners who are doing big things. This month, we’re honored to share the story of Julie V, the founder of Creole Made Easy, LLC. 

Julie’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the incredible impact that connecting with a Women’s Business Center can have on an entrepreneur’s success.

Read on to hear from Julie herself about how she turned her passion for Creole cooking into a growing business—and how her WBC (The Urban League of Louisiana – Women’s Business Resource Center) played a key role in her story.

Turning Passion Into Products

Julie V’s love for Creole cooking inspired her to create Creole Made Easy, LLC, a business that celebrates the rich flavors of New Orleans. “Writing a cookbook has always been a lifelong dream,” Julie shares. Her book, Creole Made Easy, along with her line of Creole Mustards and Sauces, forms the foundation of her brand. “We also offer on-site cooking demonstrations featuring recipes from the cookbook,” she adds, creating opportunities for customers to experience her cooking firsthand.

Julie’s journey into entrepreneurship began as a vendor at local festivals. “We used so many condiments for our sausages at festivals that we thought, why not create our own? We worked to develop flavor profiles that would pair perfectly with our dishes,” she explains.

Overcoming Challenges

Women's Business Center Client Feature: Creole Made Easy, LLC

Turning her dream into reality wasn’t without its challenges. “Product development was one of the biggest hurdles,” Julie recalls. “And compiling all the recipes and information to write my cookbook was no small task. On top of that, finding funding sources to start and grow the business was a big obstacle.”

Finding Support at the Women’s Business Center

Julie’s breakthrough came when she connected with her local Women’s Business Center (The Urban League of Louisiana – Women’s Business Resource Center).

“The staff was so approachable and helpful,” she says. “When I found out I already knew some of the team, it made me feel even more comfortable reaching out.”

Women’s Business Centers are part of a nationwide network dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs. They provide invaluable resources, mentorship, and support to help turn business dreams into reality.

The Women’s Business Center offered Julie a wealth of resources, but one program stood out: the Women In Retail program. “The knowledge I gained there was invaluable,” she says. “It gave me the tools to plan and compete in the National Urban League’s Pitch Competition for Small Business, where I won first place!”

The Tools to Thrive

Julie credits the Women’s Business Center for equipping her with practical skills that have been essential to her growth. “The Women In Retail program introduced me to budgeting, forecasting, marketing, and distribution possibilities,” she explains. “These strategies have been key to planning and implementing my business operations.”

When asked to reflect on the center’s impact, Julie doesn’t hesitate: 

“The Women’s Business Center has allowed me to grow, expand, and scale my business. If not for the center, I really don’t know how far I would have gotten on this journey.”

Where to Find Creole Made Easy

Julie’s products are now available at Vaucresson’s Creole Café and Deli in New Orleans (1800 St. Bernard Avenue), as well as on her website, www.IamJulieV.com

Women's Business Center Client Feature: Creole Made Easy, LLC

Her cookbook, Creole Made Easy, along with her Creole Green Onion Sauce, Mango Mustard Sauce, and Creole Mustard, are some of her bestselling items that you shouldn’t miss!

A Final Word for Other Small Business Owners

Julie’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with passion, determination, and the right support system. Her journey shows how a Women’s Business Center can empower entrepreneurs to turn big ideas into thriving businesses.

If you’re a small business owner—or dreaming of becoming one—Julie encourages you to connect with your local Women’s Business Center. “The resources and expertise they provide can truly make all the difference,” she says.

Looking to start or grow your small business? Use our WBC Locator to find a center near you, or reach out to our national small business coaches at Hope2Women to learn your best next step!

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