For Julian, his journey with UFCU began long before La Ola Pop Shop opened its doors.
After experiencing financial challenges, Julian turned to UFCU to get back on his feet. What started with a car loan grew into a lasting financial relationship.
"When I came to UFCU, they told me they would take care of it," Julian recalls. "When it came time to open the business, we kept everything in-house."
Paulina's journey was similar. To help prepare for their future business, she worked to establish credit through UFCU's Credit Builder Loan.
"I did two or three Credit Builder Loans to help build my credit before we opened the business," Paulina shares.
Those early steps laid the foundation for what would eventually become La Ola Pop Shop.
Sharing Family Traditions Through Food
Inspired by their family members who owned paleta shops in Mexico, Paulina always envisioned creating something of her own.
"My dad's family has shops in Mexico. That's what they do for a living," she says. "That inspired me to do the same."
In 2017, Julian and Paulina began making paletas in their garage and sharing them with family, friends, and neighbors. What started as a small operation quickly gained momentum, leading them to open their first store.
Today, La Ola Pop Shop serves handcrafted paletas and ice cream made fresh throughout the week, featuring authentic flavors like horchata, arroz con leche, tamarindo, and more.
For Julian, one of the most rewarding parts of owning the business is introducing customers to the traditional Mexican treat.
"I enjoy showing people what a paleta truly is," he says. "When people try one and tell us it's the best thing they've ever had, that's special."
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Every Day
Both being born in Mexico, preserving their culture remains at the heart of everything they do.
For Paulina, Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the traditions, recipes, and hospitality that shaped their business.
"We want to bring a little taste of Mexico to people who may not have known these flavors existed," she says. "We're proud of our culture and how hardworking Hispanic families are. In Mexico, everyone is welcome, and we try to bring that same energy into our shop every day."
That commitment to authenticity has helped make La Ola Pop Shop a loved destination in Kyle and throughout Central Texas.
A Relationship That Continues to Grow
Today, Julian and Paulina maintain both personal and business memberships with UFCU and appreciate the relationships they've built over the years.
"They know who we are," Paulina says. "Everyone takes the time to introduce themselves. It feels personal."
As La Ola Pop Shop continues to grow, so do their plans. Their next goal is opening a second location in Buda, bringing their authentic recipes and welcoming spirit to even more communities across Central Texas.
UFCU is proud to support Members like Julian and Paulina as they continue building a business rooted in culture, community, and connection.
MemberJulian and Paulina
Member since 2010
Services Everyday Banking, Credit Builder Loan, Business Banking