Conversations with the Inspiring Susanne P. Stretch

Today we’d like to introduce you to Susanne P. Stretch.

Sue is a retired teacher of 41 years, turned jam and jelly entrepreneur, working out of her residential kitchen in Bedford, NH. She started the business in 2007 and has won numerous awards for her creations such as “Zetz” red pepper jam, wine jellies, tea jellies, and fruit jams and jellies. She’s been making jams and jellies since she was a young girl growing up in Weymouth, MA. She remembers picking beach plums on the Cape to process into jellies.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Starting a business is not easy. The road is curvy. There are lots to learn about health and safety rules and regulations, formulas, water testing, Ph levels, and other topics regarding commercial products.

My advice is to connect with others who have some experience in the field, and not to be afraid to ask others for help.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into Laurel Hill Jams & Jellies story. Tell us more about the business.
I’ve grown to appreciate local farmers. I try to use as many local products as possible for the jams… such as fruits – blackberries, strawberries, peaches, raspberries, blueberries, and crabapples. I’m known for using local wines and meads for jellies, I also use spirits and teas to produce unique flavors.

Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
NH Made is an organization which provides support and workshops for their members. SCORE is another helpful source for information/how to start a business.

Pricing:

• 5.95 for a four oz jar on the website
• 8.95 for a 9.7 oz jar on the website

Contact Info:

• Address: 47 Birchwood Circle,
  Bedford, NH 03110
• Website: www.laurelhilljams.com
• Phone: 603-472-5388
• Email: sue@laurelhilljams.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurelhilljams/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laurelhilljams
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/laurelhilljams

Image Credit:
Woot

Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.