We were lucky to catch up with Vel Wall recently and have shared our conversation below.

Vel, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.

Krispies by Vel was an idea I actually had nearly a decade ago! I tried a cake batter rice crispy treat at a work event- which was delicious- and in that moment, I realized how much you could do with rice crispy treats. I immediately started brainstorming flavors. I was so excited about this treat that I knew others would love it, too! I began making flavored treats for my family and coworkers which solidified that I wasn’t the only one who would like uniquely flavored rice crispy treats.

I had seen plenty of elevated cookies and whacky cupcakes, but not many unique rice crispy treats aside from the one I tried previously and that company only had three flavors. This meant that there was a nearly untapped market with endless potential in the world of sweets.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Vel Wall and I am the owner of Krispies by Vel. I am a self proclaimed foodie with a retail background. Aside from my passion and love of good food, I don’t have conventional culinary experience but I can definitely whip up some tasty treats!

Krispies by Vel makes gourmet rice crispy treats with a huge focus on flavors! The rotating monthly menu debuts unique flavors that fit each season, from key lime pie in the spring to pumpkin cheesecake in the fall. The goal is to provide an exciting and delicious experience to all rice crispy treat lovers.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I think that what helped to build my reputation is my character. I do my best to operate with integrity which affects what I deem as two of the most important parts of a business: customer service and product. I won’t put a treat out that isn’t just right in order to get new flavors out and I am consistent with my recipes. I also genuinely enjoy what I do and view getting to share my treats with others as a blessing. I am genuinely happy to meet my customers and develop a relationship with them and I believed it shows.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I worked in retail for nearly a decade when the company that I was employed at filed bankruptcy in the midst of me preparing for a promotion. My co-manager position was cut and my career was immediately put on pause. I decided I needed a change in scenery and a more flexible job so that I could go back to college. I became a server and enrolled at YSU. I did not realize how well I could do in the food service industry. I was actually able to pay for my schooling and eventually the launch of my business with my tips.

My old job going bankrupt and cutting my position was a turning factor in my life. Even though at the time I was devastated, I know I wouldn’t be where I am today if that hadn’t have happened.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.krispiesbyvel.com
• Instagram: @krispiesbyvel
• Facebook: Krispies by Vel