Meet BSBA Member Jill Pharis, Sweet Jill's
Belmont Shore is home to over 150 businesses, with a story behind each one of them. Please meet BSBA Member Jill Phairs, owner and operator of Sweet Jill’s.
Sweet Jill's has been providing traditional baked goods, including their famous cinnamon rolls, cakes & muffins in Belmont Shore since 1987.
Starting a small business is hard, what advice would you give to those with similar aspirations?
Do you research, be creative and be different. Do not do the same thing your neighbors are doing thinking yours will be better.
How did you get your start?
Growing up on a farm in Nebraska, baking everything from scratch and learning recipes from my German and Swedish grandmother. Family and friends loved my product encouraging me to open a business and sell my products.
“I’m a passionate hands-on operator, and I love the customers we serve. I’m a very grounded person and content doing what I do.”
Do you believe formal training in your field is necessary to success, why or why not?
No, these skills are not taught you learn things through experience.
You must have common sense, personality, patience and understanding. There are no two days a like. Be financially savvy. Think before you invest.
I have been a runner for over 50 years, I enjoy running on the Belmont Shore beaches, the Marina, around our local University.
Why Belmont Shore?
Love the neighborhood community, the small city atmosphere, the shops and restaurants, and a need for something different. I love dashing in and out of the various shops on 2nd Street, going to the banks and they knowing who you are, the personal touch that the local business gives you.
To what do you attribute your success?
Common sense, motivation, responsibilities, being a hand on’ operator, interacting with employees and customers, working hard, confidence, making products that people love.
