Today we’d like to introduce you to Nate Lossner & Dan Garwood
Hi Nate & Dan, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Our story began with two friends who had grown tired of the corporate world and were searching for something more fulfilling. We shared a passion for spicy foods and believed that we could create something extraordinary together. With this vision in mind, we embarked on a journey to craft the most delectable and homegrown hot sauce known to man. This started out as a hobby, selling to friends and family. Then we decided to do our first local farmers market this past summer at the Middlebrook Agrihood, and found instant success.
Driven by a commitment to quality and sustainability, we developed a unique process that involved fermenting our ingredients using purely organic methods. We call our brand “Wicked Ferments” as we want to capture both the wickedly delicious flavor and the beneficial aspects of the fermentation process.
Every batch of our hot sauce is carefully handcrafted in small quantities, allowing us to pay attention to every detail and ensure that each bottle is nothing short of perfection. Our dedication to using only the freshest and finest ingredients guarantees a savory and tangy experience with each bite.
Homemade is not just a word for us, but a philosophy that permeates every aspect of our business. We believe that the love and care we put into creating our hot sauce is what sets us apart from mass-produced alternatives. Each bottle contains not only the incredible taste, but also the passion we have for our craft.
As we continue to grow and expand, our mission remains the same – to offer hot sauce enthusiasts a truly exceptional product that can transport their taste buds to new heights. We strive to bring joy and excitement to every meal by offering a hot sauce that is not just hot, but also bursting with flavor.
Join us on our journey as we escape the corporate world and embrace a life filled with deliciousness and adventure. Together, let us explore the wonders of Wicked Ferments and discover the magic that can be created in a homemade hot sauce.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
This journey has truly been a wild ride. We experienced a rapid sell-out within days of our launch, followed by navigating the complexities of obtaining state licenses for retail and restaurant sales. While these challenges are positive in nature, they have certainly added pressure on my business partner and me, especially since we both maintain full-time jobs. we have also faced supply chain issues with bottles and labels, which can slow us down, particularly since we produce in small batches that require significant time to complete. Ensuring a steady supply of essential materials is crucial for our continued production. We are tackling these obstacles together and are optimistic about soon operating from a shared kitchen to get our products onto store shelves.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
We focus on creating hot sauce through a distinctive fermentation process, which enhances the bold flavors and differentiates our product from conventional boiled and vinegar-based sauces. One of our sauces undergoes a three-month fermentation, while the other five ferment for a month, making production a crucial aspect due to the time-intensive nature of this method.
We take great pride in the incredible support we’ve received from the community. My partner and I never anticipated such rapid growth, and it wouldn’t have been possible without this backing. I’ve also noticed that local small business owners collaborate to promote each other’s products, truly embodying the spirit of Iowa nice.
As mentioned, our hot sauce employs a unique process that sets us apart in a crowded market. Our branding is also engaging and fun, thanks to a talented friend who runs a small business and helped us create our logo, which has played a significant role in our success.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
My partner and I aren’t big readers, but we really enjoy the podcast “Small Town Murders” and “Your Stupid Opinions” by James Pietragallo and Jimmy Whisman, who are two up-and-coming comedians.
Pricing:
- $10.00 per bottle
- 5 pack sampler for $45.00
- 3 pack sampler for $25.00
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Wickedferments.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/wicked_ferments/profilecard/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/share/1GpV6Q4pct/
