Where does your passion for food come from?
It comes from my family. I remember my grandmother cooking what I dubbed Friday stew–a delicious and savory mish-mash of the week’s leftovers. In it could be fried chicken, beef steak, and some veggies. She had to find ways to stretch food, especially with a dozen people to feed. To this day, I don’t know how she made that stew so yummy. My passion for food also comes from just being around good food all my life. My mom and dad, aunts and uncles all are amazing in the kitchen.
Tell us about your culinary journey.
It all started when I burnt bacon when I was in high school. My mom made me cook bacon and I didn’t now how, so it burnt. I was traumatized after that experience and did not go near a stove until I was well into college. To be fair, my parents owned a restaurant and I just went there to eat. Often times my mom and dad would pack me bucketfuls of food to take to school; there was no need to cook for my self. Things started to change after college. I had to learn how to cook. Interestingly enough, I felt right at home in the kitchen; probably through osmosis or some genetic predisposition, I discovered I enjoyed cooking and feeding people.
What will our fans find at your booth this fall?
They will find my super addictive and savory Garlic Peanuts! If they are garlic lovers, they will love these peanuts! Garlic Peanuts are great paired with beer, wine, cocktails and other beverages! It’s also an interesting addition to a recipe. If they are looking for unique and delicious food gifts, I’ve got them packaged in cool Kraft bags and ready-to-gift jars.
What are your goals for your business in the next year?
Aside from selling at a farmer’s market next season, one goal is to expand my business and have people reach for a package of Iris and Poppy’s Garlic Peanuts while standing at the checkout line. Another goal is to launch a new flavor in the summer.
What was your biggest challenge when starting out?
Getting over the hurdle of self-doubt. When I decided to start this business, I went through a lot of soul searching and questioning my ability to carry this through. Fortunately, I’ve got some incredible people around me who believe in me and my product and have shepherded me through to the other side.
