In our most recent homestead blog post article below, we get to chat with Cheryl Later of Wawa’s Jam’s and Jelly’s in Abbotsford, you can find her at the local farmer’s markets and she is super passionate about high-quality small batch hand made artisanal jam and jelly, and her products taste amazing!
Who are you, where are you based, and what is it that you love about running your jam and jellies enterprise?
Hello, I’m Cheryl, fondly known as Wawa, the driving force behind Wawa’s Jams and Jellies. I operate my business from home in the heart of Abbotsford, British Columbia Canada.
Making jams and jellies is a passion I’ve nurtured since my early twenties when I started my own family. Now, at the age of 58, with three sons and their respective families who cherish my canned delights, my love for creating these sweet treats hasn’t waned a bit.
How did you initiate your product creation and what advice would you offer to those keen to start?
Canning has been a lifelong fascination for me, but the greatest satisfaction comes from knowing others cherish my products. I fondly recall my childhood spent picking blackberries, followed by my mother turning them into delicious jam or pie. My endearing nickname, Wawa, originates from my first grandson, Nixon, who coined it in lieu of ‘grandma.’ It resonated with me, and now all my kids’ friends and my grandchildren’s companions refer to me by this name.
Could you tell us about your product offerings and where people can purchase them?
My inventory comprises a wide variety of jams and jellies, each with a unique spicy zing. You can spot me at various local markets across Fraser Valley. I regularly update my Instagram and Facebook pages with details about upcoming venues. Alternatively, customers can reach out to me directly via email to place orders.
What advantages can customers expect when buying from you?
Purchasing from Wawa’s ensures you get a product brimming with love, locally produced, and perfect for your entire family to relish.
What ingredients go into the making of your products?
All my products are crafted using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Could you talk about the advantages of operating a small home-based artisan business for yourself and your family?
For anyone considering joining the market, my advice is to embark on a venture that not only brings you joy but will also resonate with others.
What significant life lesson has entrepreneurship taught you about yourself?
The main takeaway from my journey as a business owner is simple: do what you love, and your passion will touch others.
Aside from your enterprise, how do you spend your leisure time?
I’m blessed with nine grandchildren, with another one soon to join our big, happy family. This keeps me filled with joy and incredibly engaged.
Finally, is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself or your business?
This journey wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of my family. My mother and sister are my cheerleaders, my husband aids in dismantling the market stalls, and my daughter-in-law captures beautiful pictures and serves my pepper jellies to her friends.
For more info, you can follow them on Instagram and Facebook
Wild Bluebell Homestead is a charming hobby farm located in Abbotsford that offers a range of hand-made artisanal products, curated vintage furniture, sourdough bread, and other homemade items. The homestead is dedicated to creating unique and high-quality products that are beautiful, functional, and long-lasting, plus each item is carefully crafted with attention to detail. Customers can expect a warm and welcoming experience and a range of products that are perfect for adding a touch of rustic charm to any home.
