So... funny story...
Truth be told I wasn't laughing at the time. Stressing, really, but I've had some time to think and come up with a plan.
I was a vendor at a pretty large festival not too long ago. Based on the numbers I was provided, I purchased the appropriate amount of everything I needed to accommodate 800 lemonades (a fraction of the people in attendance). Well, things didn't turn out the way they were anticipated to. Not just for me, but all of the other vendors in attendance too. After many discussions, it turns out we all either broke even or lost. I was fortunate enough to break even. Naturally, I had a ton of excess product. I was able to salvage a decent amount of the lemons, all of the fruit puree', the creamer, the beet sugar, and of course all of the extra cups and supplies. That's part of the risk you take.
Luckily, I can still use all of it for catering events and possibly even into next stand season. But the sugar... It still packaged and in a food grade sealed tote. There is 100# of it. (*sigh*)
What does that mean?
It means this fall and winter, The Lemon Jar will be offering its "Sweet Treats". Everything from single serve desserts to chocolate dipped awesomeness and candy boxes. Staying true to the Lemon Jar, there will be some lemon flavored things, but more importantly, all of it will be small batch handmade and packaged. Made with whole ingredients, no dyes, and no or artificial flavorings.
Don't be afraid to try new things. That's what this is. A new thing for me. I can make a mean lemonade (arguably the best), but I haven't made some of my best goodies for anything more than family functions and the kids school bake sales back in the day. Here we are. I like to think about all of the things that could go right with this. It's time for me to keep learning. That's what building a business is all about. Adapt and overcome. Continue to grow. You will never know the full potential of your capabilities unless you try. Who knows? Maybe I'll end up being the next Willy Wonka.