Founder(s)
Product(s)
Year Founded
Where did you initially create your product?
The original 14 products were developed and sold from my home – 8 are still on the market and 3 are regularly requested to come out of retirement. Once the launch kitchen was opened, product development was moved to their commercial space.
Where can you find your product(s) today?
The Wine Spot on Lee Road was my first retailer. Then, I was picked up by Market District, Giant Eagle, Heinen’s, Acme, World of Wine and Liquor and Merchant’s Mrkt at Legacy Village. My first restaurant was Market in Rocky River. Currently, you can find my Bloody Mary and other cocktail products at restaurants and bars throughout Ohio.
What did you do in a former life?
Restaurant Kitchen Manager, General Manager, Sysco Sales and Marketing, Special Events Director, Air Show Supervisor, High School Teacher, amongst other random adventures.
What inspired your product(s)?
History and responsiveness to the public and market forces.
How has Central Kitchen helped your business?
Central Kitchen has provided me with a safe, clean, ODA & FDA inspected space to create and produce my products.
Which Central Kitchen services were used?
Commercial kitchen space, Incubator class, and more. I have helped teach several of the Incubator classes and assisted in kitchen management. I introduced Central Kitchen to my contacts at local and regional stores and assisted to set-up the bi-annual Market District product review. I serve as a resource for labels, bottles, insurance coverage, licensing and more for new members.
Goals for the future:
Continued product development
Continued growth in the marketplace
Continued participation in the growth of the Cleveland food scene and protecting its reputation
Assist in the growth of the Food Hub’s co-packing program
Assist new companies with their growth
Continue to mentor developing companies
Possible return to teaching