For some, the taste of a sweet treat after a meal, as a snack, or when it is hot is delightful. Rochelle Bellemare’s business, Sweet B’s, was inspired after walking in the sun one day and needing a cold treat to satiate her. Her desire to create her business resulted in the opening of Sweet B’s in 2019. Rochelle provides Yello with some insight into Sweet B’s and advice for others interested in entrepreneurship.

Please share what inspired you to start your business.

I wanted to become a business owner to make my dreams a reality. I got the idea for the business concept while walking in the sun one day. I wanted to make gourmet popsicles to cater to the constant hot temperatures experienced in the Caribbean.

Share a few details about the products you offer.

Sweet B’s is the only supplier of liquid nitrogen ice cream in Trinidad. We also provide gourmet ice cream popsicles and ice cream sandwiches. We have alcoholic and non-alcoholic flavours. The best-selling flavours are Blueberry Moscato in the ice cream, Oreo in the popsicles, and Birthday Cake in the ice cream sandwiches.

Please share a challenge you encountered and how you handled it.

One of the main challenges we still experience is that we offer new and innovative products that must break socio-cultural norms. Some customers are reluctant to step out of their comfort zone and try products they are unaccustomed to having.

What has the response been like since you started the business?

Initially, customers were reluctant to try the liquid nitrogen ice cream. They were accustomed to regular homemade ice cream, and some were concerned about the safety of ice cream made with liquid nitrogen. However, after many free samples and educating the public, we built our customer base and have returning customers. The feedback on the popsicles and ice cream sandwiches has always been good, as we offer unique flavours unavailable elsewhere.

What do you admire most about your team?

My mom, dad, sister, and partner assisted me when we began operations. Last year, I employed two hardworking people excited about the business. I admire their passion and consider them family.

Please share advice that you believe might be of value to others.

Hard work and consistency are crucial. Keeping the end goal in sight will help new entrepreneurs push through the hard times. There will be a lot of challenging situations, but when you begin seeing the rewards, it will be worth it. Also, do a lot of research about the field you are aiming to enter and about your competitors. It is wise to provide a product that no one else offers to make your business relevant and needed.

What is the most important thing you want people to know about your business?

We are committed and invest a lot of love into making our business work. Sweet B’s is unique because of our distinctive product offerings. Our customers can expect consistency with high quality, great taste, and visually appealing products.

Thank you for sharing with us, Rochelle. Good luck with Sweet B’s and treating your customers to innovation in your industry. If you want to stay updated on Sweet B’s, visit their Instagram page (@sweetbeginingsTT) or email [email protected] for business queries.