She's Empowered Spotlight: Lauren Montgomery of Monty's
We're celebrating Women's History Month by highlighting some of our favorite female-founded businesses in the food space! Empowering women has always been at the heart of what we do here at Ground Up, where every jar directly fuels our job training program, helping women overcome adversities. That's why we're so grateful to celebrate this season by amplifying the voices of these amazing female founders and their journey's! So, without further ado, let's meet Lauren, founder of Monty's — a plant-based, dairy-free cream cheese and butter brand set on making healthy and craveable products that don’t compromise on exceptional taste!
What was the inspiration for Monty’s? Tell us about your professional journey.
As a chef, my personal health journey led me to create a pure, plant-based, dairy-free product. I’ve always prioritized clean eating and being mindful of what I put into my body- it's what makes me feel my best and most in tune. I love sharing that feeling and energy with others through things that I create. What started as a mission for myself quickly became a passion for providing nourishing, intentionally crafted and uncompromising products that stand apart from anything else on the shelf.
How do you stay motivated?
I stay motivated by reminding myself why I started–my own health journey showed me the power of clean, nourishing food, and I want to share that with others. Hearing from people who consume our products daily, love them & feel better because of them keeps me going. I also love experimenting in the kitchen, constantly improving and innovating and creating new products to share with others really excites me. Knowing that I can make a real difference in someone’s well-being through the foods they consume everyday, there is nothing better.
Do you have any advice for someone who is interested in starting a business/blog?
Go for it. Don’t wait for things to be perfect. Work through your self limiting beliefs and doubts and become the best version of yourself for you first. Share that through what you create. I’m naturally an introvert, and putting myself out there to build this brand has been a challenge, but it has been so worth it. Growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone, and the more you do it, the easier it gets. Believe in what you’re creating, stay consistent, and don’t let fear hold you back from creating the life (and products) of your dreams.
What are your favorite ways to #spreadgood in your community?
I love supporting local businesses with aligned values. I always shop at the local farmers market and love working with local bakers & food businesses to shape the community and food system I want to be part of.
Who is one person who inspires you and why?
My dad; he's built a couple incredible businesses with the utmost integrity and is the most humble guy I know.
How do you work to stay centered and practice self-care in your busy day-to-day reality?
I make it a priority to slow down and check in with what my body needs. I carve out time everyday for myself to just be still, to meditate, to reflect and I take more time throughout my day wherever needed, no shoulding or guilt. I have my daily non-negotiables like working out and slowing down to cook and be present or going for a mind clearing walk. I remind myself that there is no Montys without me. As much as I pour into my work, I know I can’t show up fully if I don’t take care of myself first.
What do you like to do for fun, when you aren't working?
Working out, meditation retreats, traveling, cooking, connecting with people creating cool things :)
What are some of your favorite recipes with Ground Up?
Flourless chocolate chip & almond butter cookies! And sauces! Love a savory nut butter moment; and I am a self proclaimed sauce queen.
