TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — If you take a stroll down Florida State University's campus, you will probably find Carrie or Joe Woodson getting their hot dog stand ready.
The couple owns two Mom and Pop's on campus, but their history dates back decades.
"Joe's mom, about 23 to 24 years ago set up a stand across from the fine arts building to sell hot dogs and lemonade," Carrie said.
Popularity for the stand quickly grew, and Joe's parents Ronnie and Rudy Woodson expanded to opening the first Mom and Pop's in front of Strozier Library in 1997.
Seven years later, Carrie and Joe joined the family business.
"We fell into the role," Joe Woodson. "One stand opened and my parents talked me into it, and I was reluctant, but now looking back it was probably one of the best things, best decisions I've made."
Joe said he and Carrie have found a family on campus through generations of students.
It was these Noles that helped keep Mom and Pop's open back in 2003 when university leaders worked to get rid of private vendors.
Thanks to the support of students, they remain a staple on campus.
"It's a job where everyone is happy to see you," Joe Woodson said. "Everybody is happy when they come up. They're happy when they leave."
Those happy memories, giving Seminoles life-long connections.
"We had a bride that met her maid of honor at the hot dog stand and at her wedding day they were going to get their hair done, but stopped by here to get a hot dog and lemonade."
If you're ever on campus, Carrie will be ready to squeeze you some fresh lemonade, and Joe will have one of their famous hot dogs on hand.
