We were lucky to catch up with Kayla Jasperse recently and have shared our conversation below.
Kayla, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Alright, so we’d love to hear about how you got your first client or customer. What’s the story?
My first client, I can’t believe that this was only back in May! I am lucky enough to say that I had multiple first clients! I had posted on my personal page and Facebook marketplace a picture of a box that I had made for a friend of mine. Since this was a couple weeks before a Mother’s Day, I advertised these boxes as Mother’s Day boxes. I was expecting to get a few people, maybe that I knew, to buy a couple just because they knew me. I was in awe when I had over 30 customers reach out and order one or two boxes! Some of these people I knew but about half just appreciated the Beauty of my charcuterie and wanted to gift it! That first “order” was 30+ orders, and from there I jumped right into the charcuterie business.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Berries + Honey is a product of being a stay at home mom and looking for an outlet outside of being just a mom, although being a mom is the best job there is. When I had my second son, my wonderful husband and I decided I would stay home with him, along with our two year old, I have loved every second I have been able to be home with them, but I was needing some sort of creative outlet. Back in May, I had created a small charcuterie box as a gift for s great photographer friend after a family session. We discussed the idea of me doing this as a hobby and I loved the idea because I absolutely love creating. Once I started advertising for my business on my personal page, I realized there was a huge opportunity in the KC to start a real business out of this! I had started creating boxes, board, tables, and even hosting public charcuterie workshops all around the KC metro.
It took many, many hours of research to find exactly what I wanted to offer, for how much, what my starting costs would be, anything that goes into a business. With the help of my husband, I was able to get a good idea of all of these things, start selling and create a website, with each question and each order, I like to update my website with as much information to help potential customers know exactly what I offer.
Everything I create is customizable to the customer, and each order is different than the last, no cookie cutter boards here. (Unless requested)
I like to think that what sets me apart from others is the amount of choices there are on each board or table. I like to include as many options of cheese, meat, fruits, veggies, dips, and sweets, as possible, That way there is something for everyone! Even the picky eaters.
My clients know that I will do just about anything to help make their event just a little easier. I communicate with them to make sure they know exactly what I can do for them and that there is nothing to worry about when it comes to their order.
Where do you think you get most of your clients from?
Word of mouth! I cater many events, small and large. I also include business cards and signage, with every order. I always get new followers and clients from past tables or boards I have created. I also work with many other vendors in the KC, that I have built relationships with through vendor expos and styled shoots. These relationships have helped me reach clients through referrals from other small businesses.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Pictures pictures pictures! I like to think that my charcuterie speaks for itself, I try to post as many pictures of my work as I can. Not only does it keep peoples interest in what I do, but it helps show the diversity in what customers can orders. My advice for those trying to build a social media presence is to just to post your work as often as possible! Those who are your biggest fans will always comment and like your posts and every time you post, someone new will see it.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.berriesandhoney.com
- Instagram: @berriesandhoneykc
- Facebook: @berriesandhoneykc