Today we’d like to introduce you to Yara Rifai-Gil.
Yara, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I got started in 2013 making custom sugar cookies, which then turned into full on custom dessert tables, and now I make chile candies and boozy gummy bears which I called BoozOsitos. It’s been an incredible journey these last seven years! I am constantly trying to think of new things to do to keep my business intriguing so I “experiment” with different things until I find something that excites me and that I see other people enjoy. With the constant love, support, and push from my family, I am proud of where my business has gone to these last few years, but I’m far from where I want to be!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Let’s just say there have been a few bumps on this smooth road. I had a terrible accident in 2016 making candy apples which almost resulted me losing the use of my left hand, but I pushed through and now have zero issues with it. It’s tough here in such a huge city to make a name for yourself because of course you’re not the only one that does this so the constant struggle of attracting more business has and probably will always be there, but the loyal support from all my clientele and word of mouth has been tremendous in helping my business grow; especially these last few years. If it wasn’t for that, I probably wouldn’t even be doing this interview!
We’d love to hear more about your business.
My business is all about sweets!! I myself have a huge sweet tooth so it would only be fitting that I make and sell them. I used to specialize in custom dipped treats with fondant decor, edible glitter, and all the bells and whistles, but now my business has shifted more onto chile covered candies and boozy gummy bears. I am so extremely proud of all my products because I put so much time and effort into coming up with the recipes. There has been a ton of sleepless nights experimenting, many many ingredients purchased, and a huge handful of taste tests to ensure the product is exactly what I was striving for it to be. Hearing so many positive reviews about our products shows me that all that work wasn’t done in vain and completely worth it! I believe my flavors are what set me apart from others because I don’t just cater to one flavor palette. My chile products aren’t overly sweet, spicy, or sour because I want them to be enjoyed by everyone from children to grandparents. It’s no fun eating a product where you feel like your mouth is literally going to burn right off from all the heat and you can’t taste the actual flavor of what you’re supposed to be enjoying. The BoozOsitos are truly my baby out of everything because they aren’t just your average Jell-O shot. they are made with various high quality ingredients, juices, and flavorings as opposed to just a box of flavored jello and liquor.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Gosh. I have so many plans and dreams for this company! I am hoping one day to have a mobile food truck to offer my treats to several different areas. Why a food truck instead of a brick and mortar storefront? Because I want people from various locations to have a chance at trying my products! You know there have been places you want to try, but they are just so far so you don’t ever get a chance to try them. Yes, I know if the product is worth traveling for, it will bring business no matter how far you are, but I think food trucks would just be more fun! I don’t like being in the same place all the time anyways lol.
Pricing:
- My Chile products range from $5-40 (sauces, single bags, and platters)
- BoozOsitos range from $12-100 (single bags and platters offered)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.yarasyummies.com
- Email: yarasyummies@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/yaras_yummies
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/yarasyummies
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