Litehouse Inc.’s Post

A year has passed since I closed the chapter with Sjaak's Organic Chocolates. I don't often open up about my personal life, but losing a job unexpectedly is not something you can easily share. The process of grieving that chapter took some time. Over the past year, I’ve applied to hundreds of graphic design positions, facing rejections and being ghosted more times than I can count. The tough job market can be incredibly discouraging, making me question my abilities as a designer. I even applied for a couple of barista jobs (no luck there either). Amidst the countless job applications and rejections, I've been nurturing my little coffee business. For years, I've had this deep desire to do something with coffee, but I hesitated, thinking my dream of owning a coffee shop was silly and I should just work as a "designer" with all the years I've gained. I am immensely grateful for my family and friends, who have been my pillars of support, constantly encouraging me to pursue this dream. Their unwavering belief in me has been the fuel I needed to keep going. Reflecting on this past year, I realize how much I've grown. I've learned resilience, patience, and the importance of believing in myself, even when the odds seem stacked against me. Each rejection taught me something new, making me a better designer and a more determined entrepreneur. I want to take a moment to appreciate the journey itself. Every setback was a setup for a comeback. These experiences have shaped me into someone stronger and more passionate about my dreams. To anyone facing similar struggles, remember that you are not alone. It's okay to feel discouraged, but never let it dim your light. Keep pushing forward, because your dreams are worth it. As for my little coffee business, it's growing day by day. I recently reached a significant milestone doing a *soft pop-up* and getting a Square reader (LOL), and I couldn't be more excited for what's to come. The dream that once seemed silly is now my reality, and I'm thrilled to see where this path will lead. Here's to chasing dreams, embracing the journey, and believing in ourselves. The road might be tough, but the destination is worth every step. This is just the beginning of it all. #smallbuisness #sandiego

"Looks like someone decided to prove that size does matter... in beer packaging! 🍻 Who needs a modest 6-pack when you can show off with a 99-pack? 😉 If you ever find yourself in need of packaging that commands attention and leaves a lasting impression, reach out to us at Hood Container! Let's make your packaging as big and bold as your weekend plans. Cheers to thinking outside the BOX! 📦💥 ⁉️WHAT are your thoughts about this? Let us know in the comments below. #77PoundsOfBeer #SizeMatters #OversizedPackaging #HoodContainer" #PackagingHumor #JumboBoxes #HoodContainer" #JamesMarsh #CorrugatedBeerBoxes #99Pack #BeerGoals #99BottlesOfBeerOnTheWall"

Ever wondered how your favorite crispy snacks get their satisfying crunch? It's all thanks to gun puffing! This amazing process transforms ordinary grains into the light, airy treats we love. Imagine biting into a perfectly puffed cereal that's not only delicious but also easier on your stomach. From your morning bowl to your midday munchies, gun puffing makes snacks that are kinder to your wallet and stay fresh longer. Next time you enjoy that crispy bite, you'll know the tasty science behind it! Remember to follow us as we dive further into the fascinating world of food processing technology next week! Book your first complimentary meeting with us - www.sensepd.com #SnackSmarter #PuffedPerfection #Sense #Gunpuffing #Envision #Innovate #Create #Productdevelopment

This week’s new blog post is titled “Why Grocery Store Coffee Falls Short and How Altruistic Joe Delivers a Superior Brew”. Visit AltruisticJoe.com and click the “Blog” link at the top of the page to read more on this topic. Thank you for your support, and have a great week - Cheers! #altruisticjoe #specialtycoffee #premiumcoffee #singleorigincoffee #veteranownedsmallbusiness #veteranowned #supportsmallbusiness #coffeeblog #blogger #coffeebreak #coffeetıme

How do you go from making your famous chips in your home kitchen for your friends and family to launching them in stores across the country? First, you learn a lot about potatoes. Gary Edell and his son Brian Edell took an idea and saw it through to launch and growth in a category that is arguably very crowded. Join us as we hear about how they created My Dad's Chips. Tune in @angrakis on IG in an hour! #MyDadsChips #marylandfoodie #marylandfoods #favoritedaughter #favoritedaughterfavoritethings #IGLive #smallbusiness

Waffles… from a petrol station? 🤔 Some things are meant to be eaten fresh. Or are they? Hot, fluffy, straight-off-the-griddle waffles are something we expect at a cozy breakfast spot or fresh from our kitchen. But now? You can find them neatly packaged and sitting on shelves at a petrol station, ready to grab and go 🎉 🎊 It got me thinking: Can waffles — or even pancakes — go fully “convenient”? On one hand, this feels like innovation — a beloved format made portable 🚀 On the other, waffles are all about that just-made experience: crispy edges, warm insides, a drizzle of syrup 😋 Can that magic survive in a pre-packaged format? The question is: Are some food formats just too fragile to go convenient? Or is this where innovation pushes boundaries? 🤔 🙌 Would you pick up a packaged waffle? Or does convenience take away the magic? #Innovation #FoodandBeverage #Waffles #Pancakes #GrabandGo #Zoom #Convenience

Thinking about using shrinkflation to your advantage? Go for it! Just be smart about it. A loaf of bread slimming down? No one will blink. But shrink a hot dog and suddenly your customers feel like they’re eating a bun salad. Shrinkflation that works:Chocolate bars (less guilt, right?)Ice cream tubs (no one measures their sadness)Bags of chips (it’s mostly air anyway)Shrinkflation fails:Yogurt cups (suspicious spoon counting)Deli meats (people notice the thin slices)This Sukkot, it’s all about balance—bring people together, shrink products wisely, and keep everyone happy! #Shrinkflation #ProductHacks #Sukkot #BusinessWithABite

🔥 Looking for a last-minute gift for Mom or planning ahead for that hard-to-buy for Dad? Look no further! Support this fantastic family-owned startup founded by my friend Cedric Corbett 🎁 I like to refer to this as "The YETI Cooler of Sauce Dipping Vessels" - this is a stainless steel wing caddy 🍗 - and it is an absolute game changer! For brands, this could be perfect to bundle with your sauces, added to a subscription box, or sold in sauce-centric retail environments 💼 - use code BKYD for an exclusive discount and elevate your dip game this summer! ☀ Give them a follow here at Sauce Box and get in touch if you think there could be larger ways to collaborate with them. Not just for sauce freaks either...it has helped my picky toddlers get excited about meal time and dipping all sorts of snacks and toddler staples like Dino Nuggets and Fish Sticks. 🐟 And for my fellow NewEnglandahhhhs- this gem keeps drawn butter hot and is a must-have for Lobstahhhs & Steamahhhs at your clambakes. Let's dip into summer and get geared up for Memorial Day Weekend! 🦐 #saucelover #cpgbrands #supportsmallbusiness #productinnovation

It’s finally Pumpkin Spice Season! 🎃 Did you know CHEP pallets and Pallecon IBCs help ship all the essentials for your favorite fall treats – from the syrup in your latte to the pumpkins on your porch? What’s your go-to pumpkin spice treat? Share in the comments! #CHEPNorthAmerica #SupplyChain #PumpkinSpice

Time to fuel... 😋 Really excited about this news! Allsup's Convenience Store is coming to a town in Johnson County, Texas, loaded with famous Allsup's burritos. When driving long distances, I personally like the following items from ALLSUPS CONVENIENCE STORE : Pringles plus Sour cream   Spicy Chicken Bites 🤭😏 Seasoned Curly Fries with Side of Ketchup World Famous Burrito, beef or chicken I would love to hear what your favorite item is in the comments. #conveniencestores #burritos #texas #retail #businessnews