Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Reilly.
Hi Amy, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was home recovering from a long series of major surgeries, far from ready to return to work. I felt the urge to create and get busy, so into the kitchen to cook a batch of candied jalapeños. After giving most of it away to family and friends, requests for more started coming with offers to pay for them. That turned into “you oughta sell this.” From farmer’s markets to craft shows, it just grew. We started adding products and our following became store owners wanting to put us on their shelves.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Certainly, there have been a few. Aforementioned medical issues sometimes come up at inopportune times. The process for becoming certified to produce shelf-stable acidified foods is both daunting and arduous. Our dept of agriculture inspector told us many people give up. Jar shortages due to COVID (ongoing) and availability of fresh ingredients and the best problem to have, high demand from our retailers and loyal fans.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
It started with candied jalapeños and that remains the flagship top seller. It is so versatile and pairs well with almost anything. From there, we added combination jams and jellies, some featuring hot peppers for that sweet heat. Others not so hot. Then we expanded to include cheese spreads and a variety of fresh hummus flavors. What sets us apart is producing small-batch handcrafted products. Also, hiring a consultant to help with branding yielded one which reflects our community. Highlighting our space race heritage and our pepper manatee mascot has delighted fans and newcomers alike.
What’s next?
Currently, we operate from a commissary kitchen, a shared commercial space with other vendors and caterers. We are aiming for a facility of our own, perhaps with a small storefront. Of course, we’ll continue to craft all our favorites and introduce new recipes going forward.
Contact Info:
- Email: Amy@spacecoastspreads.com
- Website: Spacecoastspreads.com
- Instagram: Space Coast Spreads
- Facebook: Amy’s Candied Jalapeños
Image Credits
Store shelf… Green Turle Market Candied jalapeños, burger and Flamin Hawaiian… Moth & Moon Photography Hummus… Amy Reilly Charcuterie… Kayla Camera Eats Amy Reilly… makeup by Darcy
Jenn Miller
June 8, 2021 at 8:46 pm
I worked with Amy (at Publix) when she first started her business. I am so extremely proud of all the blood, sweat and tears she has put into it to be successful. I can not wait to see what the future holds for Space Coast Spreads and Amy’s Candied Jalepenos!!