// NOV. 27th UPDATE //
We did it! Thank you all for your wonderful support and encouragement over the last month or so regarding the campaign and getting these doors open!
If you contributed, we will be sending a separate email to gather additional information regarding your perk choices and pick-up/delivery. (more info on the "update tab above"
In the meantime, don't forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram:
http://facebook.com/blackberrymarket
http://twitter.com/bberrymarket
http://instagram.com/bberrymarket
// NOV. 8th UPDATE //
We are thrilled that with still 19 days to go, we hit our initial goal of $15K! We are overwhelmed with the support and encouragement from everyone. Thank you.
A few people have been asking about our current status/needs as it relates to funding since we hit our initial goal. In short, our original hope was to raise a minimum of $15K through Indiegogo and an additional $15-20K outside of Indiegogo. (The way Indiegogo works is that if you don't hit your goal, you pay a much higher service fee–which we are escatic to avoid now!–but the reason they encourage everyone to not set too hight of a goal). All this to say, we are still $10-20K short depending on some unknown costs and would be thrilled if we can continue to chip away at the remaining funds needed to open through this campaign and appreciate your willingness to consider, share, and participate.
We would love to answer any questions you might have and can be reached at: info [at] blackberry.is
Thanks again!
P.S. Construction started today within the space. Stay tuned for updates!
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Blackberry Market is...
a fast-casual cafe and marketplace in downtown Glen Ellyn (IL) offering fresh handmade daily meals, grab-and-go market items, a scrumptious bakery, premium coffee, and a superb catering menu and staff.
Who's Behind It?
Blackberry Market is the culmination of over 20 years of pursuing food in a creative and health-full way by Owner and Chef Anna Davidson. Anna has worked in food retail, specialty catering, and as a pastry chef in the Western Suburbs for the last 10 years.
In addition, a team of local community residents who are just as passionate about creative and delicious food and a community experience are involved with the project.
Why?
We have been a little disappointed at the lack of local or non-chain options that have a fast-casual (no waiter/waitress) setting in the area. Having lived in the community for almost 20 years, we have longed for a place that you can walk up and order a hand crafted meal or grab a freshly prepared lunch/dinner to go (and yes, we remember the old Spice-n-Easy).
We want to offer this experience by bringing the community a warm and nurturing space that embodies a new philosophy on food (see video for more regarding).
In addition, as Anna has served as an independent catering specialist and personal chef the last few years, we also recognize the need for a new catering option. This is our specialty.
What Are Your Offerings?
- Premium Coffee (Announcing Soon)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Baked Goods
- Dinner To-Go
- Market Retail Items
Here's What We Still Need
As with any startup business, there are significant costs to getting the doors open. We have currently raised about 85% of the money needed for equipment, build out, and inventory; however, we are still about $30,000 - $40,000 short of our goal.
We are looking to friends and the local community to help raise the remaining amount. We are hoping to minimally raise $15K via this campaign to help close the gap.
More specifically, we are seeking this funding to help...
- Cover the cost of the oven/venting needed to open (our highest expense)
- Getting initial retail inventory in the store
- Tables, chairs, and other smallware needs
Our Ask
It is our hope that you will join with us in this community funding venture by investing via one of the options presented here. There are numerous opportunities to contribute and help depending on your interest level.
And, obviously, we want to give a little back in return for your support and help...
Here's What You Get
Most "perks" listed in the right-side bar are self explanatory, but if you have any questions regarding, feel free to email us at info [at] blackberry.is.
*The timing for delivery will be based on our opening date (depending on construction and health department approvals). We will send out anticipated delivery dates as we approach the end of the campaign. Any catering or special event perk will be redeemable in 2013.
**We will be uploading some pics soon of the tote bag and t-shirt if your're curious.
Out of Towner?
We have a number of "out-of-town" options listed in the various perks. Just know that if you're not close by to enjoy the Blackberry goodness on a daily basis, just know that we'll hook you up too!
The Impact
We feel strongly about this entire project being "for the community" yet "by the community." We welcome your participation and involvement and look forward to getting the doors open to share food, ideas, and stories.
Other Ways You Can Help
Whether you can contribute or not, we would love everyone's help in getting the word out. Here's a couple of easy ways:
- Send out a personal email to your friends that you know will be interested with a link to this campaign.
- Post a link via your own social network (Twitter/Facebook) and help get the word out!
Opening Date
We are hesitant to suggest a date with so many unknown variables with permits, construction, and approvals; however, please know that we are shooting for December.
What are Your Hours?
We have not settled on the specific hours, but know that we will be open for that early morning coffee and breakfast, lunch, and late enough to grab our daily dinnner to-go.
Where?
For those familiar with downtown Glen Ellyn, we will be on the corner of Main St. and Hillside just south of the tracks in the former (and lovely) Craig's Pharmacy/Bells and Whistle space.
Updates
We will be posting regular updates via Facebook and Twitter, so be sure and follow us there. We will also be updating this campaign with info and pictures as we progress. Stay tuned and check back regularly.
Thank You!
We appreciate you giving the time and attention you already have to read about this project. Every little bit helps. Thanks!