Today we’d like to introduce you to Delisa and Zach Harper.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I founded Funky Mello with my husband, Zach. As kids, we were obsessed with marshmallows, but as adults, our bodies couldn’t handle the unfriendly ingredients. So, we started our journey selling artisan crispy treats at Houston farmer’s markets. Then we set our sights on handmade vegan marshmallows, which are surprisingly trickier than you may think! Now we are creating deliciously clean, plant-based marshmallow cremes and we couldn’t be happier.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has definitely not been a smooth road (haha). We have faced so many challenges, from production to design. And growing a business amidst unexpected hurdles like COVID was no joke. One thing that helps us persevere is finding the silver lining.
For example, Zach went to the hospital several times last year for what we later found out was chronic gastritis. For him to enjoy food again he needed to have a cleaner diet. Although very scary, we wouldn’t have created our deliciously clean marshmallow cremes without that experience.
We knew being entrepreneurs would be hard but we are very resilient, determined, and believe in our vision and dreams. It takes guts to stick with your business. The rewards make everything worth it and keep us going. We’ve learned the most about ourselves through the hard times.
We’ve been impressed with Funky Mello, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We make delicious marshmallow cremes in fun flavors, using clean ingredients. And they’re plant-based, gluten-free, and top 8 allergen-free. They can be used as ingredients or toppings in s’mores, crispy treats, coffees, and so much more!
We are more than your average marshmallow company! For starters, we have a unique product that’s super versatile, rich in flavor, and made with friendly ingredients. And we are very proud to be a brand that’s inclusive, uplifting, and fun. We feature funky music from up and coming artists on our website, spread positive messages through our merch, and craft treats that just about anyone can eat, no matter their diet.
We want people to smile when they think about our brand. We always aim to make our customers happy in both their hearts and their tummies.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
There is undoubtedly a trend upwards of many people wanting to live a more sustainable life. That includes eating more wholesome food, and making choices that positively impact other lives and the planet. We will continue to shift people’s perception about marshmallows by innovating new products across different segments and curating special experiences that demonstrate just how magical food can be in making happy memories for generations.
Contact Info:
- Email: hello@funkymello.com
- Website: www.funkymello.com
- Instagram: funky_mello
- Facebook: Funky Mello
- Twitter: Funky Mello
