How many kids do you have and what are their ages?
I have one son and he is 31 years old. My pregnancy was so difficult, I almost lost my life. From then, I decided I could only have one child.
What do you love about living in the Iowa City-Cedar Rapids Corridor?
I arrived here in 1991 from Vietnam with my son, Hung. I did not know any English. I didn’t know anything! Throughout school and work, I have always met so many welcoming people here. Everyone here has been so nice to me. So many people helped me be where I am today and love being apart of this community. That’s the best part of this place.
What’s your favorite restaurant and/or place to shop in the area?
I can’t stay away from Von Maur! And I love shrimp tempura at Konomi Japanese Restaurant, in Coralville.
Tell us about your career.
I graduated from the University of Iowa with a business degree in 2001. I have always been involved in business and I am the current owner and store manager of Liberty View Wine & Spirits, in North Liberty.
Why did you decide to open your own business?
Most of my career I’ve worked in customer service and management and personally I like a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon from time to time. I wanted to combine some of my skills with some of my interests. I have also always been a busy person. I do not like sitting at home.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Honestly, my regular customers are the best part of my job, many of whom have become my friends. I love to hear about their lives and families besides what they like to drink.
How did you juggle work with mommyhood?
Everything I did was helping my son get through life. I used to worry so much about making sure he was fed, had new clothes, and that he was doing well in school. Now that my son is a grown adult, I no longer worry. I am still his mother though. Even though I work every day, when he’s home I am always cooking his favorite meal and doing his laundry! He’s still my only son!
How has your job changed during COVID-19?
COVID-19 has really taught me to be more mindful of people. I want talk talk to everyone. But I need to make sure everyone is safe and their boundaries are respected.
What’s your advice to moms in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis?
Our family didn’t get together for the holidays and it made me very sad, but I understand. 2020 was not a normal year, but I would tell moms to still maintain a normal life somehow, do normal things, and even talking to family and friends you may have not talked to for a long time. Everyone needs support right now.
Angie’s Info
Liberty View Wine & Spirits
595 Country Lane, North Liberty, IA 52317
Phone: (319) 459-1408