Severn Couple Heads up Waugh Chapel Smoothie King Opening

David and Romica Brashear live in Severn with their two young children.  The couple has always had an entrepreneurial drive. 

David owns and operates Altus Technology Solutions, an IT consulting firm.  Romica has taught information technology courses online and also put her software testing career on hold to raise their children.  Now that the kids are getting older, the Brashears were in the market for another new venture to call their own.

After researching their options, the choice to go with was closely aligned with the Brashears’ personal philosophy. 

“We wanted to do a franchise that we could be proud about.  We care about what we put into our bodies," said Romica.

"Smoothie King is a brand that uses natural fruit, natural juices and has lots of options for milk alternatives.  We didn’t want to do heavy food.”

There are no value meals at the Smoothie King, but there are plenty of options for customers that want a nutritious, satisfying meal replacement or refreshment.  The location will have snacks available, such as nutrition bars, fruit snacks made with real fruit juice, vegan cookies and breads and vitamin supplements.

In today’s scaled-back market, the Brashears see the need for fun fast food that is healthy.    “We are very unique in our branding.  You would not typically come into a Smoothie King looking for a sundae,” said Romica Brashear.

“Smoothie King was really needed in Anne Arundel County,” Brashear explained.  “The closest location is in Columbia. Even in a down economy, people still go to McDonald’s and Chick-fil-A.  We want to be a healthy alternative so that if someone misses a meal, they’ll have a choice.  They’ll feel great, it’s good for you and it’s quick with the drive through.”

While the array of options is endless and the customer is king when it comes to replacing and exchanging ingredients, the process of ordering a smoothie is simple and streamlined.    The Smoothie King experience starts with determining your function.  Some options are Trim Down, Build Up, Stay Healthy, Snack Right and Get Energy.

After determining this, guests can select arranged flavor groupings and determine if there are any dietary requirements such as being corn-free, dairy-free, egg-free, fat-free, gluten-free or vegan.  Guests can then make any substitutions if needed and select additional enhancers to boost energy, their immune system, or add vitamins and probiotics.  “Over 70 smoothies are available.  The majority of our smoothies are vegan and they are highly customizable,” Brashear said.

“I’m excited to offer a healthy option to our guests,” Romica said.  “I also see this as a ministry.  We’ll be hiring many young workers, so this will be a chance for me to serve as a mentor to them.  I hope to be an example for them to help in the community and make good choices.”

Construction is already underway at the Waugh Chapel location and the couple expects to open in May.  The Brashears are currently organizing a family-oriented Grand Opening in June, complete with fitness demonstrations, face painting for the kids and samples. 

Keep posted with their progress by visiting the Smoothie King Crofton Facebook fan page.