Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Annette Pardun, Founder and Owner of Fill My Jar, LLC., located in Brookfield, IL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Fill My Jar is a candy company that makes caramel, English Toffee as well as a line of unique chocolate barks. Our candy is made in small batches and uses real butter, cream, and natural oils to create amazing flavors. Our store caters to the local neighborhoods that bring in children that enjoy our old fashion candy flair, to the adults who seek out the sophisticated flavors the FMJ line offers, and many other handmade treats. We also cater to a large corporate population as we do many pop-up events throughout office buildings in the city and suburbs of Chicago and the Chicagoland area. Offering custom label options and shipping for clients' gifts throughout the continental US as well as creating beautiful and tasty party and event favors perfect for all occasions.
Tell us about yourself
I have always had a passion for creating in the kitchen. As a young mother of 3 daughters, I enjoyed baking and candy making as a way to send gifts to teachers, coaches, neighbors, etc. This became a craft I truly enjoyed, so I pursued learning all I could about making bakery, pastry, and candy treats. Seeing how people truly enjoyed my candy and sweets, I began taking my confections to farmers markets and craft shows. The business began to grow as I rented my first commercial kitchen and started pursuing pop-up events in the high-rise offices in Chicago.
Creating my first website was a big accomplishment and gave my customers a place to go where they could order from me. In early 2021 I purchased my first building and opened the first Fill My Jar candy store and kitchen. To this day, the thing that motivates me the most is knowing that I can bring joy and happiness to so many people. Knowing how complicated and stressful life can get, it makes me feel great knowing I can bring someone a little joy.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Looking back at how this all started, I am so proud that I was able to take my candy line and create my own store and kitchen in a building I was able to purchase.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the more difficult aspects of owning a small business for me is trying to keep up with not just running the store and making the product but finding the time to keep up with the social media and marketing demands as well. Because you are a small business, I feel there are never enough hours in a day to get everything that needs to be done and keep up with how engaged you must be on social media to keep your business fresh and in your customers' view.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Have people who support what you are doing. For me, even though this was my business, my spouse, children, and family were always happy and supportive of my efforts. It helped me feel great about what I was doing, even through the rough spots.
- Try getting your product/brand out there by doing markets and local events first. It is a great way for you to build a customer base before you jump into opening a location.
- Do not be afraid to try new things. Many times when I was creating my candy line, I was very skeptical and worried that even though I enjoyed the flavor I created, others would not. I was always pleasantly surprised at how well my unique flavors were received.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.fillmyjar.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fillmyjar/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fillmyjar/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annette-pardun-b7473533/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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