Today we’d like to introduce you to Meghan McCarthy
Hi Meghan , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started City Hippie granola back in 2018 on a whim.
I was a new mother, who left my managerial role at a law firm in downtown Cleveland, to take care of my child, while simultaneously managing my post-partum depression and anxiety.
I was shopping at the West Side Market one day, when I purchased maple syrup from a local vendor, so I could make granola. The vendor and I got to chatting. They wanted to know if I had different granola flavors and would I be able to sell it. I answered yes to both questions. While I had been making my various granola recipes for years, I had never sold it before. Within a week of that chance encounter, I had chosen a company name and designed a logo. I sourced supplies, priced out my ingredients and returned to that same vendor with product in hand. Thus, City Hippie granola was born.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
While creating City Hippie happened quickly, the rest of the road was much more challenging. Food service was new to me, so I had to familiarize myself with the varying laws and regulations. I had to learn how to negotiate and communicate with other vendors to carry my products.
Also, as the sole owner and employee of City Hippie, I have to wear ALL the hats. I am the baker, the dishwasher, the custodian, the accountant, the marketing guru, and the IT staff, just to name a few.
We’ve been impressed with City Hippie LLC, 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?
City Hippie is a women owned and operated business that specializes in making small batch granola, using high quality ingredients.
My granolas are nut heavy compared to most, and I use pure maple syrup and dried fruit for my sweeteners. My granolas are nutrient dense, and I offer twelve different flavors, including a Savory Parmesan Rosemary Granola, which was awarded Best Savory granola by Cleveland Magazine in 2021. Ten of my twelve flavors are vegan and I’m happy to make gluten free batches upon request. Some of my most popular flavors are Jail House Rock (a cinnamon raisin blend), Lemon Blueberry, and Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip.
At the end of the day, my goal is to share tasty food that makes people feel good about themselves, while fueling their bodies in a positive way.
What makes you happy?
People make me happy. A genuine connection with others, with food, and with life’s simple pleasures is where I find happiness.
Pricing:
- $3.25 – $3.50 for a snack pack
- $10 – $12 for a ten ounce bag
- $18 – $20 for a variety box
- $45 to $170 for the Granola of the Month Club
Contact Info:
- Website: https://city-hippie.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/city_hippie_granola/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cityhippiellc
