Kelli Powell

Kelli Powell, mom of two and owner of Ginger Bugs, Lodi, was born and raised in Stockton. She left for college and returned to Lodi in 2011. Our conversation with Kelli reveals her dedication to family and community.

HLM: How long have you lived here? What do you love most?
KP: I grew up here! My mom’s family was in Stockton and my dad’s family in Lodi, so we were between Stockton and Lodi often, much as we are today. Although there are fewer orchards and more houses today, I love raising our family where I grew up. What I love most about being here is of course family, but also the small-town feel.

HLM: How is your heart inspired to serve the community?
KP: I love our community and have found a passion for supporting young kids and families. Through Ginger Bugs, I have enjoyed being a part of families’ lives and watching their kiddos grow up. We love being a part of community events, volunteering with local nonprofits, celebrating holidays and children’s milestones. I really enjoy seeing the pure joy on their faces at each event.  

HLM: What sparks joy for you?
KP: Absolutely my family first and foremost! Cabo has a special place in our hearts, so we travel there as much as we can. We love to hang out with friends and enjoy local pubs and live music. Ginger Bugs is really a joyful place for me. Whether I’m working on or in the business, it’s always fun to see your dream become a reality and have the entire family get to be a part of it!  

HLM: What’s your free time passion?
KP: With our busy life, which I love, I don’t get much spare time. Between shuttling the kids to their activities, work, home duties and being a wife, not much time left. I try to do yoga at least twice a week to clear my mind. However, most who know me know I like to zone out on my BRAVO Housewives shows too!

HLM: Top three bucket list goals?
KP: Travel more often; visit Ireland specifically. Create a fun, healthy, stable life for my kids. Finally, complete home improvement to-do list.

HLM: What accomplishment are you most proud of?
KP: Besides my kiddos, opening Ginger Bugs was definitely a labor of love. I had talked about opening for years before actually doing it. Now having survived the pandemic and keeping our doors open, it’s really an accomplishment I’m proud of.  

HLM: What are you currently reading?
KP: A lot of emails. Ha! I have never been a huge book or novel reader. I think my ADHD brain has a hard time focusing. I do better with shorter articles.

HLM: Favorite food or dessert?
KP: I’d say carbs are my favorite. Most who know me, know I’m not a huge foodie. As the saying goes, I eat to live, not live to eat.