The mother of four fulfilled her dream of opening a tea and spice shop, now called Flavour Spice and Tea.
"It's kinda surreal because it has been a slow process. I was kind of worried if I was going to be able to fill it and if I was going to have product for it," said Bonton.The business took over a vacant storefront at the corner of La Mesa Boulevard and Jackson Drive, partially thanks to a grant program offered by the City of La Mesa.
"They were allowing, giving opportunities for some small businesses to come and fill up some of these vacant spots, so I was like - Let me try it, because if I don't apply I would be mad at myself," said Bonton.The City of La Mesa and the East County EDC to distribute up to $20,000 dollars to new restaurant, retail, and other enterprises, according to the website.