Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura Imhoff.

Hi Laura, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I run a small boutique canning business, Roots & Spoon, where all my produce is sourced from local farms. I have recently transitioned the business to online, so that I can begin to focus more in supporting the local farm-to-table community, including providing small farms and food businesses with marketing and other business support.

If you’d asked me fifteen years ago if I saw myself here, I’m not sure I’d have had an answer. My journey started in art school, with music and working at a coffee shop to pay the bills, but food and farming were always in the background—whether I was experimenting in the kitchen, hosting dinner parties, or visiting farmers markets.

Over the years, my career path has been diverse, taking me from running bars and restaurants to working at a culinary school and even managing farms. One constant, though, has been my passion for food—particularly seasonal produce—and my desire to work for myself.

Roots & Spoon grew naturally from my earlier crafting side hustle in Texas, where I embroidered, made jams, and refinished furniture. When I moved back to Massachusetts, I decided to rebrand and focus on food. For me, creating unique flavor combinations and cooking is as much a creative process as any art form. That passion is what has shaped my journey and brought me to where I am today.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Anyone who’s driven in Massachusetts knows the roads here are far from smooth—watch out for those potholes! Starting my business has felt much the same. While I never expected it to be easy, the journey has been equally challenging and rewarding.

Like many entrepreneurs, I’ve faced the long hours with little immediate payoff, the constant self-doubt, and the nagging question, “Is this worth it? Will this ever pay off?” There have been moments where others didn’t believe in me—and worse, moments where I didn’t believe in myself.

Breaking into the already tight-knit farmers market community was another hurdle. It took time, persistence, and proving the value of what I bring to the table. But despite the struggles, each challenge has shaped my journey and made every success feel that much sweeter.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Roots & Spoon?
Roots & Spoon offers fresh, flavorful, small-batch jams, jellies, pickles, and relishes handcrafted from seasonal, locally grown produce. But these aren’t your average grocery store jams and pickles—I specialize in unique flavor combinations that surprise and delight. Think Orange and Thyme Pickled Golden Beets, Sweet Pickled Cranberries with Ginger and Cardamom, Blueberry Basil Jam, or Malaysian Squash Relish. The list goes on, and each product is as creative as it is delicious.

What makes Roots & Spoon truly special is my dedication to supporting local farmers. Every jar includes the name of the farm where I sourced the produce, connecting customers directly to the local growers who make it all possible. By doing this, I’m not just creating exceptional products—I’m supporting the local economy and ecosystems, helping farms thrive, and introducing customers to the incredible agricultural community around us.

I’m proud of every batch I make personally. Each jar is more than just a product—it’s an experience, a journey from farm to table, crafted with care and creativity. Roots & Spoon isn’t just about food; it’s about community, sustainability, and the joy of discovering bold, seasonal flavors. In that vein, I have recently pivoted the canning part of the business to online only. I’ve realized that the community isn’t just about selling at farmers markets but ensuring that other small food businesses and farmers continue to grow and flourish. I have also begun to provide small business services and marketing for my peers to continue to support the local food community.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
It’s hard to pick just one favorite childhood memory, but many of my best moments revolve around food and music. I can still picture dancing around the house with my mom to Gloria Estefan or Harry Belafonte or roasting chestnuts with her during the holidays. Family gatherings were filled with overflowing counters and tables—baked brie, bacon-wrapped watermelon rinds, smoked salmon—there was always something special to eat.

I also remember the spicy curries my dad would whip up after returning from work trips, filling the house with incredible aromas. Food has always been at the center of my most cherished memories because it’s what brings people together. It’s those shared meals and moments that have stuck with me and shaped my love for cooking and creating.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rootsandspoon.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootsandspoon
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rootsandspoonofficial
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-imhoff-a7113a35/