Meet Rachael Roumaya: Business Owner I Board & Brush Fort Collins and The Waffle Lab

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rachael Roumaya and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rachael, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I don’t believe there is such a thing as work life balance. It’s more of a pendulum- sometimes your business will require more time, more effort, more focus and other times home life takes a front seat. There is tremendous planning and intentionality that goes into ensuring your family and your business are loved and well taken care of. 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I took an unconventional route to get where I am. After completing my freshman year at Baylor University, I decided to take some time off to travel. I joined a cruise ship and sailed around Hawaii for a year. It was on this ship that I learned some tough life lessons and the hard knocks of the real world. I believe that I learned more in that one year than most students do during their entire time at college. After getting a taste of the ‘real world’ I never looked back and fell in love with hospitality and service. It was then that I began my career, from the cruise ship, to country clubs and catering sales. I absolutely love creating experiences that people will never forget. Owning Board & Brush Fort Collins and The Waffle Lab have given me the chance to create environments and experiences that people remember for years to come. My biggest mark of success is when a guest turns into a raving fan and brings their friends and families back to share in their experience.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We’d start with a cocktail at Social, my favorite bar in Old Town. Then we’d grab dinner at Penrose (for a more casual night), or Sonny Lubick Steakhouse. On Saturday, we’d head out for a hike in Estes Park and grab dinner at Bird & Jim. On Sunday, brunch would be at The Waffle Lab where we’d indulge in a Waffle Bloody Mary and one of their decadent waffle creations. After brunch, we’d walk around Old Town and check out the adorable shops!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My biggest shoutout goes to my husband, Brad. He is my partner in life and in business. We’ve always thrived working together and I couldn’t imagine it any other way. Brad challenges me daily to show up well, take care of myself and give back to others. He grew up as a high school football state champ, and I have no doubt the life lessons he learned on the field have carried with him into adulthood. He is a tremendous husband, father, and boss to those who work for him. Growing up, my parents always taught to surround myself with people who are better than me. It’s something I’ve taken to heart and held onto through my life. I truly believe you become who is around you. If you want to be a better leader, hang out with superior leaders. If you want to be an entrepreneur, you better get some incredible entrepreneurs in your circle. At the same time, if you are constantly around energy drainers, you should expect your energy to drain and your dreams to fade.

Website: www.boardandbrush.com/fortcollins ; www.wafflelab.com
Instagram: @boardandbrushfortcollinsco ; @thewafflelab
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BoardandBrushFoCo ; https://www.facebook.com/TheWaffleLab