Every comeback story has a turning point—and for Lansing entrepreneur Tammara, that moment came after she lost everything she thought defined her. But what she found in the process was something far more powerful: purpose, perseverance, and a second chance.
Tammara is no stranger to Lansing’s food scene. Many will remember her as the face behind Smoothie Queen, a popular smoothie brand once located inside the Allen Neighborhood Center. With no formal training but a whole lot of heart, she built a loyal following with her vibrant, dairy-free creations.
Photo Credit: Kayla Turpin aren’t just smoothies—they’re symbols of resilience, revival, and real flavor. Tammara’s comeback tastes like community support and second chances.
“I was just a first-time business owner with a deep passion and a delicious product,” she recalls. “People loved what I was making.” But passion alone wasn’t enough. Without the infrastructure and support to keep the business sustainable, Smoothie Queen eventually closed. And with it, a dream came crashing down."
“That failure crushed me,” she says. “I felt like I had lost not just my business, but also my identity and sense of purpose.”
In search of healing, Tammara moved to Chicago in 2023, telling herself she was done with the food industry for good. But the spark never fully faded. She found herself attending food festivals, feeling the familiar pull of entrepreneurship. The dream still lived within her—and as it turned out, Lansing wasn’t done with her either.
“Even while I was gone, I kept getting messages from people in Lansing asking me to bring Smoothie Queen back. That love never stopped.”
After time away and a complete reinvention, Tammara is back with a new name, vision, and renewed determination.
From Smoothie Queen to Smoothies n’ Stax—same heart, stronger vision. Witness the evolution of a brand built on resilience, flavor, and faith.
Introducing Smoothies n’ Stax: a fresh, pop-up style concept featuring the same beloved dairy-free smoothies Lansing fell in love with—plus new, customizable mini pancake and waffle stacks. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious smoothie or a comforting breakfast bite, Smoothies n’ Stax is where health meets flavor, with a side of joy.
“This time, I’m doing it differently,” Tammara says with confidence. “I’ve written a 23-page business plan. I know my numbers. I have my branding strategy in place. And I’ve built a network of mentors who are helping guide me through this process.”
Tammara is asking the community to rally with her once more to turn this vision into reality. Tammara has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise $15,000 by May 1st, which will go toward startup costs like equipment, permits, licenses, and staffing.
“So far, we’ve raised just over $1,000,” she says. “I’m so grateful—but there’s still a long way to go.”
“This isn’t just a story about smoothies,” Tammara says. “It’s about resilience. About listening to God’s calling. About stepping back into purpose and letting community uplift you when you need it most.”
At The Chronicle, we’re proud to stand behind entrepreneurs like Tammara—those who dare to dream again. We encourage our readers to support her relaunch, whether through donations, shares, or simply cheering her on.
Let’s help build something beautiful—together.
Support her GoFundMe campaign:https://gofund.me/cb444ce9
Connect & Follow: Instagram: @smoothiesnstax
Facebook: Smoothie Queen Lansing
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