Meet Haily Sutton

We were lucky to catch up with Haily Sutton recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Haily, really appreciate you joining us to talk about a really relevant, albeit unfortunate topic – layoffs and getting fired. Can you talk to us about your experience and how you overcame being let go?

The restaurant layoffs at the beginning of the pandemic were a significant turning point for my husband and I. As bartenders, we found ourselves suddenly out of work, facing an uncertain future. Instead of letting the situation bring us down, we decided to seize the opportunity to pursue our small business dreams.

For years, we had toyed with the idea of creating a business that centered around our love for cooking and bringing people together. The pandemic, with all its challenges, gave us the push we needed to turn that dream into reality. We channeled our energy into developing Crock’n CLE, specializing in small batch crockpot meal packets. This venture not only gave us a sense of purpose during a tough time but also allowed us to bring convenience and comfort to others who were also navigating the difficulties of the pandemic.

What started as a necessity quickly grew into a passion. We found that our skills in the hospitality industry translated well into running a business. The experience taught us resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community support. The initial setback of losing our jobs ultimately became the catalyst for creating a thriving business that we are incredibly proud of today.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

At Crock’n CLE, we specialize in creating small batch crockpot meal packets designed to make mealtime both convenient and delicious. We offer a diverse lineup of 35 different meal options, each designed to serve 6-8 people with minimal prep work. Our packets are crafted to bring families together around the dinner table, simplifying meal preparation so you can focus on what truly matters – spending quality time with loved ones. What excites us most about Crock’n CLE is the way our products fit seamlessly into busy lives, providing home-cooked meals without the hassle. Our packets use high-quality ingredients and are tailored to deliver a variety of flavors, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s a hearty stew, a comforting soup, or a flavorful chili, our meals are designed to be both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Beyond our day-to-day operations, we are actively involved in initiatives that help us grow and improve. We recently participated in the JumpStart Impact Program, a 12-week program where we worked closely with advisors to refine our business strategies. This program will culminate in a 10-minute pitch, giving us the chance to win a $10,000 grant. Additionally, we made the top 20 semi-finalists in The Cleveland Chain Reaction, a competition that offers a substantial opportunity for growth. As part of this, we will work with JumpStart to create a 15-minute pitch for the chance to secure $40,000 in funding. These programs not only provide potential financial support but also valuable mentorship and networking opportunities, which are instrumental as we aim to expand and enhance our business. Stay tuned for more exciting developments as we continue to strive for excellence and bring even more convenience and joy to dinner tables everywhere.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Resilience was crucial as we faced numerous challenges and setbacks, especially during the early stages of the pandemic. Instead of being discouraged by these obstacles, we viewed them as opportunities to grow and learn. My advice to those early in their journey is to embrace challenges as part of the process and stay focused on your goals. Building resilience means staying persistent and maintaining a positive mindset, even when things get tough.

Adaptability was another key factor. The ability to pivot and adjust our strategies based on changing circumstances allowed us to navigate the uncertainties brought by the pandemic effectively. For anyone starting their journey, being open to change and willing to try new approaches is vital. Develop a mindset that welcomes innovation and flexibility, as these traits will help you stay relevant and responsive to market demands.

Lastly, a strong sense of community played a significant role in our success. Engaging with our customers, receiving their feedback, and building relationships with local businesses and organizations provided invaluable support and insights. For those just starting, my advice is to prioritize building a community around your brand. Connect with your customers, seek mentorship, and collaborate with other entrepreneurs. These connections can provide you with support, knowledge, and opportunities that are essential for growth.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

Absolutely! At Crock’n CLE, we are always looking for new opportunities to partner and collaborate with like-minded individuals and businesses. We are particularly interested in collaborating with local farmers, ingredient suppliers, and other small food businesses who share our commitment to quality and community. Additionally, we welcome partnerships with retailers who are interested in carrying our product line and helping us reach more families.

We are also keen to collaborate with influencers, bloggers, and social media personalities who are passionate about food, family, and convenience. If you have an audience that would benefit from learning about our easy-to-use crockpot meal packets, we would love to explore partnership opportunities.

If you are reading this and are interested in collaborating with us, please reach out! You can connect with us through our website at Crock’n CLE or via email at info@crockncle.com. We look forward to hearing from you and exploring how we can work together to bring more convenience and joy to dinner tables everywhere.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.crockncle.com
• Instagram: @crockncle
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/crockncle