Today we’re excited to be connecting with Jeanette Marcelle again. We’re excited to feature one of their products in our gift guide – learn more below and we encourage you to use your gift budget to support small businesses & creatives whenever possible.

Jeanette, thanks for joining us again. We’re so excited to have a product focused conversation today. Can you bring our readers up to speed on the product side?
Product Overview The Coconut and Pineapple Peri-Peri Hot Sauce is a bold and vibrant fusion of tropical flavors and fiery heat. It combines the sweetness of ripe pineapple and creamy coconut with the unmistakable punch of Peri-Peri, Scorpion, and Bird Peppers. This carefully balanced blend results in an intensely flavorful and versatile sauce

.What inspired this creation?
This product was inspired by the tropical bounty of the Caribbean, where I grew up surrounded by fresh, local ingredients. I wanted to capture these flavors’ essence and bring something unique to the hot sauce market. As a chef, I also saw an opportunity to reimagine hot sauces by incorporating layers of flavor rather than just heat. This sauce celebrates the Caribbean’s culinary diversity and its tradition of combining sweet, spicy, and tangy elements.

What problem does it solve, or what was missing in the market?
Many hot sauces focus solely on heat, leaving little room for complexity or versatility. The Coconut and Pineapple Peri-Peri Hot Sauce fills that gap by offering a bold, spicy kick without overpowering the palate. It’s designed to enhance rather than mask the flavors of your dishes, making it perfect for both adventurous foodies and those who love subtle tropical undertones in their meals.

What makes it unique, special, or useful?
What sets this hot sauce apart is its ability to deliver layers of flavor. The sweetness of pineapple complements the heat from the peppers, while the creamy notes of coconut add a luxurious, smooth finish. It’s a sauce that appeals to everyone, from home cooks to professional chefs, and it’s versatile enough to be used as a marinade, dip, or condiment. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or simply spicing up your favorite meal, it brings a tropical twist that’s both surprising and satisfying.

Who is it for?
This product is for anyone who enjoys bold flavors and a touch of heat. It’s perfect for people seeking healthier, high-quality alternatives to mass-produced hot sauces and for those who love experimenting with unique culinary pairings. From Caribbean cuisine enthusiasts to health-conscious food lovers, it’s a must-have for every pantry. It’s particularly special for those looking for a health-conscious option since it’s made with fresh, sustainably sourced ingredients and contains no artificial preservatives.

What’s been the most exciting part of the journey of taking this product from idea to real life?
The most exciting part of the journey has been watching an idea transform into a product that people can taste and enjoy. It started with a vision to bring the vibrant, tropical flavors of the Caribbean to life in a way that was both unique and approachable. Testing and refining the recipe was such a creative process—I loved experimenting with the balance of heat, sweetness, and creaminess until it felt just right.

One of the most thrilling milestones was the first batch being bottled. Holding the finished product in my hands for the first time represented all the hard work, creativity, and passion that went into its creation.

Another unforgettable highlight was showcasing the Coconut and Pineapple Peri-Peri Hot Sauce at SIAL Paris 2024. Seeing customers from all over the world try it for the first time and hearing them exclaim how good it tasted was truly rewarding. Watching their faces light up as they discovered the perfect harmony of sweet pineapple, creamy coconut, and fiery peppers reaffirmed why this product is so special.

What truly stands out throughout the journey is the connection with customers. Hearing how they’re using the hot sauce in their kitchens—whether as a marinade, a topping, or in unique ways—is a constant source of inspiration. It’s a reminder of why I started this journey: to bring joy and flavor to people’s lives.

Finally, the journey has been an affirmation of persistence and purpose. From sourcing the finest ingredients to ensuring sustainability in production, every step has been a labor of love. Sharing this product on a global stage like SIAL Paris and seeing it resonate with people makes every challenge worth it. SIAL Paris is one of the world’s largest and most prestigious food innovation events, bringing together industry leaders, brands, and culinary enthusiasts from across the globe.

Is there a core message, value or ethos you are trying to communicate through your branding and marketing?
At the heart of our branding and marketing is the message that great food can be both delicious and responsible. Handmade by Jeanette Company is built on three core values: sustainability, wellness, and authenticity.

We are deeply committed to creating products that not only taste incredible but are also made with care for the planet and the people who enjoy them. This means working closely with smallholder farmers to source high-quality, sustainable ingredients while supporting local agricultural communities. By prioritizing sustainability, we aim to inspire others to make choices that are better for the environment and future generations.

Wellness is another key part of our ethos. In a world where processed, unhealthy options are often the norm, we strive to provide flavorful, nutrient-rich alternatives. Our products are designed to bring joy to the table while contributing to a balanced, health-conscious lifestyle.

Lastly, authenticity is at the core of everything we do. Every product reflects the rich flavors, traditions, and innovation of Caribbean cuisine, ensuring that each jar or bottle tells a story of culture, creativity, and passion. Through our branding, we want to celebrate these roots while showcasing their relevance on the global stage.

Ultimately, our goal is to connect people through food—encouraging them to experience the unique flavors of the Caribbean while making choices that support their health and the health of the planet. Whether through our packaging, storytelling, or customer engagement, we aim to communicate this purpose clearly and consistently.

Do you have any advice for folks who are just starting out?
Absolutely! My biggest piece of advice is to start with a clear vision of what you want to achieve and why. Understanding your “why” will keep you motivated through the challenges and help you stay focused when things get tough.

Next, don’t be afraid to start small. Some of the most successful businesses began as humble ideas with limited resources. Focus on doing one thing well before expanding. Whether it’s perfecting a product, mastering a skill, or building a small customer base, quality and consistency will set you apart.
Be open to learning and adapt as you go. Mistakes and setbacks are inevitable, but they are also some of the best teachers. Surround yourself with mentors, peers, or a support network who can offer guidance and share their experiences.

Another key is to believe in your unique story. Your personal experiences, values, and perspective are what will make your brand or product stand out. Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle; stay true to your journey.

Lastly, remember that success takes time. Stay patient, celebrate small wins, and always keep moving forward. Hard work, resilience, and passion will take you further than you can imagine.

Image Credits
Handmade by Jeanette Company 2024