Today we’d like to introduce you to Amaris Blake.
Hi Amaris, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Drippy Sips started as a fundraising idea for my eldest. Instead of the typical lemonade stand we decided slushies was a no brainer because of how hot it is here. I however went overboard buying a slushie machine and trying to really making it something presentable. We were raising money for her class trip to Washington, D.C.. with the Close Up program, which is a tangible civics lesson to explore the grounds of D.C. and our government. The success of the fundraiser snowballed into something more — a way to create our own avenue of income while teaching our girls the value of hard work, creativity, and entrepreneurship. I really began to do the research and sample all of our products we wanted to present. I got insurance and licensing with the state so that we may go anywhere. We definitely wanted to be legit. My husband and I even created our wooden cart by hand. There is a lot of time and sweat equity we have put into trying to create something we can do as our own business that even my girls participate in. They approve of the flavors and presentations. And my eldest is able to have first hand experience of taking payments from customers. Every event we serve it is a chance for our daughters to learn, grow, and see firsthand what it means to build something of your own.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My husband has been the best supporter. It is very expensive behind the scenes to be a legal operating business. I really didn’t know how much up front expense it would be just to operate. Besides licenses you also need permits. We had to find a kitchen to partner with as well which is required even as a mobile business. We are not a food truck so there definitely is more expenses there. And while we wanted to be a party or event rented service no one knew who we were. So I had to look for all of the wonderful event markets and pop ups around south Florida and become a vendor so people would see what we are all about.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
So, until recently I was unemployed for a few years because of a car accident. I needed rehabilitation for about two years before I was able to walk without help and become physical. I worked in healthcare previously, but right now I am a substitute teacher. I love our youth. I want to help others like I’ve raised my own children. My girls are so intelligent and creative and I take that energy to every classroom. My schedule is flexible which allows me to work around my husband’s schedule so I am present for our girls with appoints and etc. My family and my faith is my motive for each day I am blessed to be alive. I am a proud mother and wife. When you see Drippy Sips you see a family business, creativity, someone that cares about delivery, what we serve, and your experience.
What does success mean to you?
Success is when you have found happiness and fulfillment in whatever you have chosen to do. Whether you’re apart of a company or have created something for yourself. When I can close my eyes and know that what I’m doing can take care of me and my family, that is it. Money will multiply when you are happy doing what you love.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.DrippySips.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drippysips
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DJZDaNZWm/
Image Credits
Amaris Blake
