Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Jones.
Nicole, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Pop it in your mouth started off as a hobby, honestly. At the time, I was a full-time physical therapy assistant, mom and psychology student. Even though I really didn’t have the time or commitment to pursue and effectively put in the effort required. I began the business anyway and it has blossomed into what it is now. PINYM has grown over the year we have been in business. I’ve learned so much from fellow boss women they all have been really encouraging and supportive since day one. PINYM has been such a creative outlet for me.
I love interacting with customers answering their questions regarding the popcorn and seeing their reactions when I tell them it’s liquor-infused lol. I started off with two flavors and now I have over 12 on my menu. I introduced the gourmet flavors this year and the success from the new flavors has been nothing short of amazing. I also now have merchandise to include (hoodies, bike shorts and socks) but I also have been consulting and collaborating with other black business owners to create popcorn for their bars or brands.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It definitely has not been a smooth road at all!!!!! My son is autistic so I became extremely overwhelmed at one point and time trying to juggle him, work, school, my business and myself. I was really in a dark place and I was stretched so thin mentally, emotionally and financially, I took a step back from my business. Then COVID happened and instead of me jumping out on faith, God pushed me out!!!! I left my good job with good benefits. The school shut down HELL, life shut down. Then their was just silence, peace my son, me and my business. The anxiety, depression and adjustment disorder I suffered trying to be superwoman and not being able to say no really took a toll on me. However, the unexpected quarantine gave me a chance to breathe and really focus on my business again. PINYM has been growing and gaining popularity since.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
PINYM (Pop it in your mouth ) is a liquor-infused and gourmet popcorn business. I’m definitely not the first person to do this but I am the one who’s doing it my way. I specialize in popcorn. I’ve made my brand sexy from the name, logo and owner!!!! The name alone raises eyebrows. I’m most proud of how my customers react to the popcorn. Their happiness and smiles make me happy.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I personally define success as customer service. If my customers are happy and I’m putting out a quality product that’s a success for me, I knew my popcorn was a big deal when I went to a doctor’s appointment and they asked me what I do for a living. I answered, I’m a business owner. I make liquor-infused and gourmet popcorn. The next thing the nurse said blew my mind she stated that she had a patient in her office the previous day raving about my popcorn!!!! That was an amazing feeling
Contact Info:
- Phone: 7628229284
- Email: popitinyamouf@gmail.com
- Instagram: popitinyamouf
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PopItInYourMouth/
Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
