We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jean Park. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jean below.

Jean, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

In Korea, my country of origin, a captivating new dessert had taken hold of the culinary scene: Croffles, a delightful fusion of croissants and waffles. Eager to introduce this exciting craze to Minnesota, I embarked on a journey to bring Croffles to the local community. My initial steps involved thorough research into launching a business showcasing this innovative treat. Guided by experienced mentors, I discovered the cottage food producer law, enabling me to create and sell baked goods from home. Without hesitation, I obtained the necessary permit and set to work refining the recipe to suit American palates. Procuring high-quality ingredients became my next focus, as I meticulously sourced materials for my venture. Drawing upon my background in marketing, I crafted a distinctive brand identity, devised a comprehensive marketing strategy, and curated appealing design aesthetics to attract the right clientele. Engaging in numerous sampling events across the city, I tirelessly promoted Croffle Corner, primarily through online orders from my Instagram. Recognizing the importance of direct interaction with customers, I sought out local markets and secured a spot at the Eagan Indoor Market Fest during the winter months. While progress has been gradual, I remain steadfast in pursuit of my goals, continually steering towards success with unwavering determination.

Jean, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I ventured into entrepreneurship, particularly focusing on crafting croffles, after observing the widespread appreciation for Asian desserts such as bubble tea and mochi donuts. The marriage of the buttery, flaky essence of a croissant with the crispiness of a waffle presented an entirely novel taste experience, poised to captivate enthusiasts. Leveraging my proficiency in digital marketing, I strategically utilized visually compelling photos and videos to propagate the croffle phenomenon. It fills me with pride to have spearheaded the introduction of croffles to Minnesota, introducing the community to the innovative ingenuity of Korean dessert culture. Who could have imagined the delightful concept of transforming croissant dough in a waffle maker?

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Maintaining a steadfast commitment to consistent branding has played a pivotal role in cultivating my reputation. By adhering to a set of brand guidelines and a comprehensive branding strategy, I ensure that every aspect of my marketing endeavors, vendor booth presentations, packaging, and promotional materials align harmoniously. While this level of attention to branding may not be commonplace among small businesses, it serves as a beacon, drawing attention to my presence—be it on Instagram or at local markets. Furthermore, prioritizing rigorous quality checks and a dedication to excellence in crafting croffles seamlessly bridges the professional branding I’ve cultivated with the products themselves.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The most impactful approach for expanding my client base has been through word-of-mouth recommendations. As previously mentioned, I’ve invested significant efforts in offering free samples at events to generate buzz around the business and our delectable croffles. As satisfied customers shared their experiences with friends and family, I began to receive a steady stream of referrals. Additionally, I’ve placed considerable emphasis on leveraging social media platforms, recognizing that my target audience predominantly resides on Instagram. Capitalizing on the inherently photogenic nature of croffles, I prioritize capturing stunning photos and videos to showcase our offerings, ultimately driving orders for various gatherings and events.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @the.croffle.corner
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/the.croffle.corner.mn