” Since opening, we have more than doubled the number of spices we offer, just by adding products people ask for and by learning about new spices.”
— Mark Schmidt
peppercorn, and three types of cinnamon. Schmidt says the most unique products include a rare French pepper called Pimente d’ Espelette, and African long pepper.
“ We filled the store with spices and blends we were interested in,” Schmidt said.“ Since opening, we have more than doubled the number of spices we offer, just by adding products people ask for and by learning about new spices.”
One of the most important and interesting parts of the business, Fox said, is learning about the products.
“ We make sure we’ ve learned and studied everything we sell, it’ s one of the things we pride ourselves in,” he said.“ A big part of our business is education. Educating customers adds to their experience. We offer tastings on the weekends to give customers a chance to taste the spices. That’ s the fun of food, it’ s all about the experience.” Customers from across the region regularly visit the store for the fresh, diverse products, Schmidt said.
“ There is a group from Chicago that drives four hours just to come to our store. They call it the pilgrimage,” Schmidt said.“ How cool is that?”
Barbecue contestants often feature Nashville Spice Company spices in their entries, and students studying culinary arts at Ivy Tech in Columbus use the spices in class.
“ I think people really appreciate the variety and freshness that we offer,” Schmidt said.
To their delight, the store is thriving, having been named the Brown County Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year in 2017 and winning a Bloomie Award in 2018 from Bloom Magazine.
“ We have our land legs and now it’ s about thoughtful growth and product expansion,” Fox said.“ We absolutely love our customers and are excited about where the future will take us.”
To learn more about the Nashville Spice Company, visit < facebook. com / nashvillespicecompany > or < nashvillespicecompany. com >. •
Fine Leather Goods
Featuring Leather Goods Made in Brown County
• Handbags
• Belts • Hats
• Accessories
• Holsters
• Leather
• Tools • Dye
• Supplies
And Shoes: Haflinger, Arcopedico, Sheepskin Slippers 92 W. Franklin, Antique Alley, Nashville, IN 812-988-4513
Sept./ Oct. 2018 • Our Brown County 21