Marcus Sonnier says he’s in the business of selling smiles. As the owner of Snowie Atlanta, a rapidly growing shaved ice company, Sonnier has transformed a frozen treat into a joyful experience that brings families and communities together. His journey from corporate executive to full-time entrepreneur is one of bold decisions, unwavering faith and a commitment to delivering outstanding customer service.
A Refreshing Approach to Business
Snowie Atlanta serves finely shaved ice topped with an array of flavorful syrups, but Sonnier sees it as more than just a sweet treat. It’s an opportunity to connect. “It takes two hands to enjoy a Snowie — one to hold the cup and another to hold the spoon. So you have to put down your phone or tablet,” he explains. “That gives families a chance to focus on each other and have a sweet experience together.”
His passion for creating an exceptional customer experience has fueled the company’s rapid expansion. Since launching five years ago, Snowie Atlanta has secured vending spots at Coolray Field, the Georgia World Congress Center, local universities and — starting this season — Truist Park as a proud partner of the Atlanta Braves. The business is a fixture at festivals, fundraisers, collegiate sports and cheerleading competitions. Sonnier sees his product as a value-add, enhancing the atmosphere at these venues. “We want to help create an experience for customers that adds value to the venue. At Truist Park, for instance, one of our stands will be located near the new kids’ area. We want to be one of the reasons that families look forward to going to Truist Park.”
From Corporate Climb to Entrepreneurship
Before stepping into the world of shaved ice, Sonnier built a successful 25-year career in financial services, rising to the role of vice president at a major corporation. As his sons grew, he wanted to find ways to teach them financial literacy and business principles. Snowie Atlanta provided the perfect setting and started as a side venture for him.
As demand grew, Sonnier faced a turning point. “The business needed full-time attention. With my wife’s support and strong faith that God was leading me in this direction, I left my corporate position to build Snowie Atlanta full time.” That was nearly a year ago, and the decision has paid off. Today, the company employs 25 part-time team members and three full-time staff.
Investing in the Next Generation
Sonnier is passionate about mentoring young people, offering high school and college student internships that provide hands-on experience in entrepreneurship. “The more they want to learn, the more I want to teach,” he says. “Whether they’re studying accounting, finance, marketing or business, we want them to come work with us and gain meaningful experience while earning money.”
His own sons have reaped the benefits of working in the business, learning financial management, customer service and event coordination. One has even decided to stay with Snowie Atlanta after college. “Everything we have worked on together is a bridge to life,” Sonnier reflects. “This business has given me the chance to teach my sons the value of working hard and persevering through the ups and downs.”
The Power of Chamber Connections
Sonnier credits the Gwinnett Chamber as a key factor in his business success. Though he had been a member in his corporate role, it wasn’t until he transitioned to entrepreneurship that he became fully engaged. He quickly joined the Chairman’s Club, accepted a position on the Board of Directors and found this new level of involvement to be game-changing. “It was one of the best things I’ve ever done,” he says. “By getting involved and connecting with people, I’ve made relationships that have opened important doors for me.”
For other business builders, Sonnier offers this advice: “A lot of business owners think they don’t have time for the Chamber. I tell them, you don’t have time NOT to be involved if you’re trying to grow a business. The people you can meet and the connections you can make are something you can’t afford to miss.”
The Joy of Building Something Meaningful
As Snowie Atlanta continues to grow, Sonnier is savoring every moment, especially the chance to mentor his sons. He says, “To be able to create amazing experiences for customers while watching my sons learn and grow — it’s the joy of my life.”