Step into the world of artisanal snacking with mother and daughter duo, Elisabeth and Gina Galvin, the creative minds behind Stellar Snacks. With Elisabeth also being the mastermind behind snack brand Delyse, this dynamic duo has taken the snacking industry by storm. What started as a side hustle in an old CVS has now grown into a thriving business supplying gourmet snacks to national airlines like American Airlines and JetBlue.
Image Credit: Courtesy of Stellar Snacks. Gina Galvin, left; Elisabeth Galvin, right.
Embark on their journey:
Born with a dream of entrepreneurship, Elisabeth Galvin moved from the South of France to the U.S. in the 90s. Despite the language barrier, she immersed herself in studies at the University of Nevada, Reno, while nurturing her love for cooking at night. Inspired by her family’s recipe for French pralines, Elisabeth developed her signature snack, igniting a spark that led to partnerships with major airlines.
Key milestones and challenges:
From selling snacks on campus to securing a deal with airlines, Elisabeth navigated challenges like establishing credit and finding employees. Within two months, her side hustle was earning consistent revenue, leading to explosive growth. By introducing advertising on snack packages, Delyse expanded its reach and revenue, setting the stage for future success.
Innovations and evolution:
Despite challenges like a vendor shutdown, Elisabeth’s resolve led to the birth of Stellar Snacks, a venture co-founded with her daughter Gina. Today, their pretzels are enjoyed by millions of passengers and are available in stores across the nation, showcasing a commitment to quality and innovation that has propelled their revenue into eight figures.
Image Credit: Courtesy of Stellar Snacks
Lessons learned and advice given:
Elisabeth and Gina’s journey as a mother-daughter team exemplifies the power of collaboration and trust in achieving business success. Their advice for aspiring entrepreneurs includes creating a solid business plan, securing your first customer, learning from trusted individuals, and fostering genuine partnerships.
As you embark on your entrepreneurial journey, remember that challenges will arise, but the rewards of pursuing your passion are truly priceless. Believe in yourself, stay committed to your vision, and watch your dreams unfold.