Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Thomas.
Hi Erica, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My father and I are the heart and hands behind Big Belly Vegan. My journey to veganism started three years ago when I was battling fibroids at a time I dreamed of becoming a mom. I learned how much meat and dairy were messing with my hormones, so I made the decision to ditch the old way of eating and embrace a healthier, plant-based lifestyle. That choice not only changed my health but also lit a fire in me to share what I learned—through food.
Based in Deltona, FL, Big Belly Vegan is all about bringing you the comfort foods you love, but with a creative, plant-based twist. From stuffed waffles to spicy egg rolls, everything on my menu is made to hit the spot—whether you’re vegan or just curious to try something different. My mission is simple: serve up bold, flavorful dishes that make you feel good while showing how delicious sustainable living can be. Not to mention, everything is gluten and soy free!
Big Belly Vegan isn’t just a business—it’s my passion and a reflection of my journey. So, if you’re looking for plant-based comfort food that satisfies your cravings and keeps you coming back for more, I’ve got you covered. Come eat with me—you won’t regret it!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Let me tell you, the love and support I’ve received from the vegan community has been absolutely heartwarming. Every time we set up, customers are already waiting, excited to grab their favorite dishes. It’s moments like these that remind me why I started this journey—to share flavorful, plant-based comfort food that brings people together.
But keeping it real, the biggest challenge has been finding a permanent location where you can come and enjoy Big Belly Vegan on a regular basis. Right now, I’m renting vehicles to set up at events and paying vendor fees for farmers markets and pop-ups, which has been draining both financially and emotionally. The biggest struggle is with farmers markets that aren’t exclusively vegan. Adding vegan food to non-vegan spaces sounds good in theory, but it never seems to pan out. The audience isn’t always aligned with what we offer, and honestly, it feels like a setback every time.
Despite these hurdles, my vision hasn’t changed. I’m determined to keep pushing forward, finding new ways to make Big Belly Vegan more accessible and continue serving up the comforting, plant-based meals you love. Thank you for riding with me through this journey—your support keeps me going!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My journey has been anything but ordinary. Born and raised in the vibrant city of Miami, FL, my love for storytelling started early, back in high school. I would spend hours crafting short stories and poems, letting my imagination run wild. When I got to college at FAMU, I took my passion to the next level, writing for The FAMUan newspaper, starting a newsletter for the Social Work department, and eventually becoming the editor-in-chief of Statis Magazine after I graduated.
As time went on, I ventured into screenwriting, bringing my love for storytelling to a whole new medium. In 2016, I opened an indie author bookstore in Tallahassee called Book Teas—a space where authors and readers could connect. Though the bookstore closed when I moved to Jacksonville, it was just the beginning of a new chapter for me. I became a certified coach and shifted my focus to helping others grow their businesses, take control of their health, and navigate life’s challenges.
Fast forward to 2023, I launched the Indie Book Fair expo series to celebrate and showcase independent authors in select cities, with Orlando as the home base. I also started a children’s book series, The Kyndall Series, which has been so much fun to create.
One of my proudest accomplishments was adapting my book into my first movie. Stepping into the world of filmmaking as an executive producer was a dream come true. Seeing my stories come alive on the screen has been an incredible experience and a testament to the power of chasing your dreams.
Outside of writing and film, I’ve continued to push myself creatively. I started two new businesses—Big Belly Vegan, my vegan food business inspired by my own health journey, and Take Those Out, a service specializing in hair extension removal. Both ventures are close to my heart and reflect my passion for creating solutions and connecting with people.
Whether it’s through my books, films, coaching, or businesses, my goal has always been the same: to inspire, empower, and leave a little piece of myself in everything I do.
What does success mean to you?
Success is deeply personal and can look different for everyone, but for me, success means living a life that aligns with my values, passions, and purpose. It’s about:
Impacting Others: Knowing that my work, whether through writing, filmmaking, coaching, or my businesses, makes a positive difference in people’s lives.
Personal Growth: Continuously learning, evolving, and stepping outside my comfort zone to reach new heights, while staying true to who I am.
Balance: Finding harmony between my personal and professional life, so I can enjoy the fruits of my labor without losing sight of what truly matters—my health, happiness, and relationships.
Authenticity: Creating and contributing in ways that feel genuine to me, without compromising my beliefs or vision.
Legacy: Building something meaningful that not only serves me in the present but also leaves a lasting mark for the next generation, whether that’s through my stories, my businesses, or the lives I’ve touched along the way.
To me, success isn’t just about reaching a destination—it’s about enjoying the journey, celebrating the milestones, and staying open to what’s next.
Pricing:
- Stuffed Chick’n in Waffle $15
- Boudin Balls (3) $25
- Fried Lasgana Roll $15
- Empanadas (2) $18
- Eggrolls (2) $16
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thomasandthings.com/bigbellyvegan
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigbellyvegancomfort/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bigbellyvegan/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BigBellyVegan
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@bigbellyvegancomfort
Image Credits
Everlasting Memories by Ira Willis
