Today we’d like to introduce you to Carla Thomas.
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?
Thanks so much for this opportunity to share my story.
“BERRY” Fabulous Berries all started just me being a single mom trying to make some extra money so that my oldest son could enjoy his senior year to the fullest. I just wanted him to experience what I didn’t. That was 8 years ago. (OMG) “BERRY” Fabulous Berries made it possible for all 3 of my son’s to have that “Senior Year” experience. I had no clue as to what I was doing. I was just going to the store buying strawberries and chocolate. Melting chocolate & burning chocolate along the way. I was trying my best to learn how to dip berries between working 2 jobs. I did it
I’m thankful for that one person who took a chance on me.
He trusted me after one picture I posted on Facebook. (I still have that picture by the way lol). He placed an order for his wife & the door of opportunity opened. I was so worried about making sure I was doing everything right and before I knew it I had started a business. I didn’t even have a business name but, I asked God to give me a name that would stand out from other businesses & that would also identify me as a person. “BERRY” Fabulous Berries was indeed born. Yes, I’m Fabulous & Sweet as a fresh ripe strawberry lol
Drive, Prayer, My Children, Determination, Tears, & More Prayer, (lol) got me where I am today. I am so so very grateful for each and every one of my customers (My Berry-Heads) without them I definitely wouldn’t be who I am right now. Not only has “BERRY” Fabulous Berries allowed me to grow in business, it has allowed me to grow as a person. My mom who is my #1 fan keeps me on my toes. She gives me so much energy to keep going when there are moments I doubt myself. I also enjoy sending my son’s new products or ideas. That’s like one of the highlights of my business (Their opinion). They’re the reason “BERRY” Fabulous Berries even exist.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road at all but, those bumps in the road has now leveled out. When I first started I wasted so much money and product because I was teaching myself. I had to learn what works for me and my business. I’m grateful for the struggles throughout my journey because there came a lot of lessons behind those struggles. Those struggles has help mold me into the treat maker I am today. Which is so much of the reason I decided to teach others. It is so much more I plan to learn but with the knowledge I have, I try my best to share it with others.
Knowing the proper way to clean, dip & package your product takes your business a long way. I had one friend that showed me where I could find certain products but not knowing the proper way to use the product is pointless and very discouraging. I had not one person to turn too. I asked but was turned down by someone I thought would help me along the way. I got it though (lol). I just never want another person who’s trying to learn go through the things I did. If I can help one person be successful with something they are passionate about I’m willing to do so.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in an array of chocolate-covered treats, mainly fruit. Chocolate-covered strawberries are the #1 seller & my turtle chocolate-covered pineapples are a fan favorite as well. I have now grown a passion for now teaching others to make treats. I provide one on one classes in their homes right now but plan to host a group session soon.
Teaching has become one of the things I’m most proud of. 4 out of the 9 people that I’ve taught thus far are now small business owners. They are doing excellent & I am proud of each one of them. Although they have now started their businesses the lines of communication is always open for me to assist them in any way possible. I also offer classes via zoom & have a student in Michigan that I’m excited for as well & really can’t wait to teach more out of state.
What sets me apart from others? I’m “The Berry Lady” lol. My customer service skills & prompt responses are one of the things most of my customers love about me. Outside of the razzle, dazzle I add to my treats it is so much love & patience put into every order. I enjoy making treats. I love the smiles that comes with every package.
Risk-taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
In my opinion with just about everything we do in life, we are taking a risk. I have taken a few risks which lead basically to me trusting people and taking a few major hits financially. That comes with lack of business knowledge & financial literacy.
Taking risks in the business world can either make you or break you. Every risk that I have taken has allowed me to come back way stronger. At this moment, I feel I’m the strongest I’ve ever been in my business. I love where I am at this moment and can’t wait to go even further growing even stronger. The goal is just for me to Keep “GROWING.”
Contact Info:
- Website: BERRYFabulousBerries.com
- Facebook: BERRY Fabulous Berries
