Today we’d like to introduce you to Alicia & Mclain Ensrud.
Hi Alicia & Mclain, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m Alicia Ensrud, and along with my husband McLain, we’ve embarked on an incredible entrepreneurial journey that began over 30 years ago. Both hairstylists and barbers, we’ve built our careers while nurturing a vibrant family that includes our six children, ranging from our eldest, who turns 31 this year, to our youngest, Mason, who celebrated his 9th birthday in January.
Originally from Jackson, Tennessee, I relocated to Nashville in 2011 seeking new opportunities, while McLain, an Army veteran, hails from Oregon. Our business, Mason’s Hotdogs and Burgers, along with Mason’s Catering and Mason’s Loft, officially launched in 2018 following the birth of our son. After years of fertility struggles, including a tubal reversal and treatments, we were blessed to conceive Mason, defying the odds given our ages—38 for me and 40 for McLain. This prompted us to honor our faith in God and ensure our children, including Mason, have every chance to succeed, inspiring us to create a lasting family legacy.
We began our venture with a hotdog cart on 3rd Avenue next to a club, where we thrived for three years, even gaining media attention during the Nashville Draft. However, the onset of COVID-19 forced us to rethink our approach. During our time as vendors, we established a relationship with Metro Parks, which led to operating from the Concession building in Ascend Park for two seasons. This allowed us to participate in the CMA Festival and other local events, but we yearned for a more permanent home.
Eventually, we leased a space in our current building, launching our salon and the Loft as a small meeting area while simultaneously developing our catering brand. When we learned that the tenants next door were vacating, we seized the moment to expand into a restaurant, giving birth to Mason’s Hotdogs in Berryhill. Our goal is to blend our street food roots with a sit-down dining experience, offering fresh, delicious meals paired with warm southern hospitality—our motto being “come as strangers, leave as family.”
We’re dedicated to involving our children in the family business and are proud to have been featured in various news articles, often described as a hidden gem in the community. We love serving locals and visitors alike, showcasing Tennessee hospitality and creating memorable moments with everyone who walks through our doors. Our menu features over ten different styles of hotdogs and burgers, homemade sides, and a recently introduced Soul Food Friday.
Since opening in 2024, we’ve held two free community dinners on Thanksgiving, serving over 150 people, and during a recent ice storm, we provided meals for more than 100 displaced families, offering warmth and support in their time of need. Our mission is to spread love and engage in meaningful conversations with strangers every day, teaching our children that no matter where you start, perseverance is key—just like we say here, “Follow the Smoke.”
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey hasn’t been entirely smooth; we’ve definitely faced our share of challenges. Operating a self-funded business comes with its own set of hurdles, particularly with rising costs and unexpected setbacks. One of our biggest struggles has been reaching new customers. As a mom-and-pop establishment, we don’t have the same resources that larger restaurants might enjoy, so we rely heavily on community engagement and word-of-mouth to get our message out there.
We work tirelessly every day to spread the word, and while we believe our efforts are making an impact, it’s a continuous process. Maintaining Mason’s Concessions has helped us stay connected to the community, allowing us to promote our brand and engage with potential customers directly.
Rising food costs have also presented a significant challenge. We strive to keep our prices reasonable and accessible for our customers, even as we navigate these increases. Our goal is to provide quality food without burdening our patrons with higher prices. We’re optimistic that costs will stabilize in the future, but for now, we’re committed to making it work. Ultimately, our passion for what we do drives us, and we take pride in delivering a great experience for our customers.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Mason’s Hotdogs and Burgers ?
At our core, we are a family-owned business dedicated to delivering exceptional service and delicious food. With eight years of experience in the industry, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse menu that goes far beyond just hotdogs. While our signature hotdogs are a highlight, we also provide an array of gourmet burgers, homemade sides, and unique culinary creations that cater to a variety of tastes.
What sets us apart is our commitment to quality and the personal touch we bring to every dish and interaction. We believe in using fresh, local ingredients whenever possible, ensuring that our customers receive the best flavors and quality in every bite. Our goal is to create a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels like family, which is why we often say, “come as strangers, leave as family.”
We’re particularly proud of our community involvement and the relationships we’ve built over the years. Our brand is not just about food; it’s about fostering connections and a sense of belonging among our customers. We aim to create memorable experiences, whether it’s through our engaging events, our participation in local festivals, or our community dinners that serve those in need.
We want our readers to know that when they choose us, they’re supporting a business that genuinely cares about its customers and the community. Our menu features over ten different styles of hotdogs and burgers, complemented by homemade sides and our popular Soul Food Fridays. We invite everyone to come and experience the warmth of Tennessee hospitality, enjoy our flavorful offerings, and be part of our growing family.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Absolutely! Finding a mentor can be incredibly beneficial, and I believe it’s a key step in any entrepreneurial journey. Even though McLain and I have years of experience and business degrees, we’ve found immense value in consulting with others who can provide insights, encouragement, and financial guidance.
One of the best resources I’ve come across is a program called Corner to Corner. This business program offers essential tools and strategies for success through a comprehensive 10-week course. The mentoring and support we received after graduation were invaluable, and I highly recommend seeking out similar programs in your area.
In addition to formal programs, networking is crucial. Attend local events, join business associations, or participate in community gatherings to meet like-minded individuals. Building relationships with fellow entrepreneurs and industry professionals can open doors to new opportunities and insights.
Always be open to learning from others, regardless of their experience level. Engaging with a diverse group of people can provide fresh perspectives and ideas that can be instrumental in your growth. Remember, mentorship isn’t just about finding a single person to guide you; it’s about creating a network of support that can help you navigate the challenges of running a business.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Masonhotdogs
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EPDgvMeB3/?mibextid=wwXIfr
