Today we’d like to introduce you to Melanie Fuentes.
Hi Melanie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started selling spicy gummy bears in 2014 with the intention of making extra diaper money when my 2nd child was born. My recipe was a hit amongst my friends and coworkers and before I knew it, I was doing farmers markets and became known as the Chili Gummy Queen for my unique recipe. Selling my candy has always been a means to make extra money to get my family ahead. I never imagined it would be my full-time job. Then COVID hit mid-March of 2020 and two weeks later, my employer of 20 years let me go. Just like that! So here I was with a new home I had just purchased five months earlier and jobless. Needless to say, I cried for weeks not knowing how I’d be able to pay my mortgage with just my candy money. I worked my business full time for the first time and realized it was time. Last November, I decided to take a leap of faith and invest everything I had into opening my own store. I found a storefront with an upstairs unit where my kids could feel at home while I worked downstairs. I knew it was meant to be, so I signed the lease this past February. It’s been a long and tough process but I am now weeks away from opening and couldn’t be more excited with this new chapter.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
My biggest challenge has been balancing mom life with entrepreneur life. As mothers, we wear many hats, chef, teacher, nurse, etc. and when you add President of your own corporation to that list, it becomes a bit overwhelming at times.
We’ve been impressed with ChilOSO Gummy Bear, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
ChilOSO Gummy Bear was created with the intent to bring something new to the table. I am known for combining Latin spices and gummy candy and creating a concoction that will leave everyone craving more every time. My customer service is what sets me apart from the rest and my secret recipe is what keeps everyone coming back for more. BET YOU CAN’T HAVE JUST ONE!
I’m most proud of what I have built for myself. I took and idea and turned it into a successful corporation. Everything you see behind Chiloso was created by me down to the logo. Starting a business with only a few dollars is not easy and to now say I’m opening a storefront is something I’m extremely proud of.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
My hard work can only take me so far. Support small businesses and tell your friends, family, coworkers. Word of mouth is everything!
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.chilosogummybear.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/chilosogummybear
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChilOSOgumybear
- Other: https://linktr.ee/Chilosogummybear
