CSUF alumni embrace the success of Tasetea

By Kayli Craig, Daily Titan

While some college students spend most of their time hanging out with friends, partying or studying, Ted Vu and Scott Nguyen started their own business.

Tastea drinks. Photo by Kayli Craig / Daily Titan.

At the time, a then 22-year-old Vu and 23-year-old Nguyen were  attending Cal State Fullerton full time.

The pair’s business, Tastea, began in a garage when Vu and Nguyen would make drinks for their friends and co-workers to enjoy during lunch hour.

Enduring a lot of sacrifices with their new business, education was something they did not have to forgo. Both are grateful that they completed school and put a high value of education into their business.

“When you’re going to school and taking these classes, you’re like ‘When am I ever going to use it?’” Vu said. “As we are going through this business, day-to-day stuff, planning for the future, it’s actually ingrained in your mind and you are using it and applying it without even realizing it.”

The pair came up with the idea of Tastea as the boba and “asian-flare” businesses began to rise in popularity. Vu and Nguyen took what they learned from competitors and decided they could make this business their own through creativity and exceptional customer service and experience.

“When someone comes in, it’s the energy, the colors around the wall … ” Vu said. “We appeal to everybody … It’s a place for friends and family.”

The owners take pride in their service and speed in preparing orders, but also the customers’ experience.

“I think they serve amazing products and offer great customer service,” said Lan Pham, a Tastea fan and CSUF alumni. “They are innovative and the background of the owners exemplify the American dream … Ted and Scott are savvy entrepreneurs who are smart and brave enough to take chances with their business endeavors. It has obviously paid off.”

Vu and Nguyen were previous classmates at Fountain Valley High School, but it was in college where they paired up and began chatting and toying with the idea of starting Tastea.

Vu studied business administration with a focus in finance and Nguyen studied arts, making the pair a powerful team.

“I think we compliment each really other well … ” Nguyen said.

Read the full article by Kayli Craig from Daily Titan.