Chances are, you've seen Double Take Salsa at your local grocery store, but it hasn't always been that way. Bernie Dahlin started crafting salsa from his own back yard, and the response he got from his simple, homemade batch planted the seed that he could create a business. Years later, he took the leap, and he's grown his business to carry a full line of salsas, hot sauces, and now marinades. You have to sample the flavors for yourself... it will make you do a "Double Take!"
Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Bernie, and I make gourmet Salsas and Hot Sauces.
What’s the latest thing you’ve been working on?
There are a few things that I am really excited about. 1- The launch of Mama Kicks authentic marinades and sauces. 2- getting into my own space to cook so I can continue to grow.
.jpg)
Will you be featuring any special holiday items?
Yes, I am in the process of designing and making custom gift boxes. These are going to be great. Colorful, and a good variety for almost anyone you know. They are also going to be very reasonably priced too.
What do your customers love most about your product(s)?
I will never get sick of people saying to me “Wow” or “OH GOD that’s good”. People do a ‘double take’ on the intense and beautifully crafted flavors that we created in all of our products. So yeah, the flavor is what people love.
.jpg)
How did you get started in your business?
I got started by growing tomatoes and habaneros in my back yard. One summer I had way too many tomatoes, so instead of throwing them out, I decided to make some salsa and bring it into the office. The tradition started…. And 7 years later, I finally quit my fulltime job. It was scary but the best thing I have done.
What has been your favorite moment since creating your business?
This one is EASY…. Even though it is always special and exciting to see someone try my salsa for the first time and look at their friend and say “OMG that is the BEST SALSA EVER”, the best moment was when I walked into Linden Hills Co-op and saw my products on the shelf for the first time. I think I shed a tear.
What are some tips or suggestions you’d like to offer to fellow makers?
Decide/ make a plan on what you want your business to become. That way you can get there. If you want to go big, you are going to have to work REALLY hard and many times not get compensated for a long time. It’s been over three years, and I still haven’t paid myself. Also, you will need thick skin as some people will be verbal on how much they don’t like your product, also there will be other tough times where you feel like giving up. STAY WITH IT!!!
Check out more about Bernie's products online, and be sure to stop by his booth at the Minneapolis Gift & Art Expo, November 2-4, 2018 at the Minneapolis Convention Center!
www.doubletakesalsa.com
www.facebook.com/DoubleTakeSalsa