Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Ries.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Hi. My name is Heather Ries. I am the owner of Mrs. Hippie Eats in Hernando Mississippi. I was the owner-operator of a LadyBugg Bakery in Hernando for 10 years.
We were voted the best bakery in De Soto County for a decade. Unfortunately due to unforeseen circumstances (Covid), we closed in March 2020. I opened a grab-and-go style business in April 2021. It has been very successful.
It’s a great concept and I believe has been good timing for the way the country has shifted in the past two years. Soups, salads, pasta, casseroles, meal prep items. etc. Made from scratch daily.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There have definitely been many highs and lows along the way. But I’m very grateful to have a successful business. I have a good following in Hernando. It’s a great community and I’m excited and privileged to run a business here.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
We are a gourmet grab-and-go market. All meals are prepared from scratch and house daily. We have a great selection of daily specials. Meal prep items like salmon, pork tenderloin, beef tenderloin, chicken, etc.
We have salads like egg salad, chicken salad, pimento cheese, and pasta salad. Green salads. Soups, casseroles, pasta. On the weekends we have a wonderful selection of fresh-baked bread and pastries. I am very proud to have started a business, especially a food industry business I’m the midst of the pandemic.
I believe that I have a niche that fits into the daily lives of folks these days. More so than ever, people are not wanting to dine out but still do not want to cook, I am here to help with that. But you don’t have to worry about unhealthy choices like fast food.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I believe in immersing yourself in the career. Especially, if it’s a restaurant/hospitality career. There is no better way to learn and hone your craft than to live it. Show up and work hard. Always be willing to volunteer and help.
I found that having a great work ethic makes it easier to find people willing to help you out. They will be more inclined to spend the time passing on their knowledge if they know you’re passionate
Contact Info:
- Email: Mrshippieeats@gmail.com
- Website: Mrshippieeats.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrshippieeats/
