Why Small Businesses Matter
Shop small, do big things for your community
Why Small Businesses Matter puts a spotlight on the local merchants who donate their time, talent, goods, and services for the betterment of our community. The shop local movement spreads virally as local businesses who are “tagged” have the opportunity to share their story!
You're IT Dani’s Pantry!
Four questions with Daniella Brooks, founder of Dani’s Pantry.
Why did you start your business?
After a 25+ year career as an HR professional, I desired to have more time at home with family. I was also interested in pursuing my true passions, food, and Italian culture. I started by selling fine Italian imports online while working. The next year, I obtained my prepared food license and began selling products and cooked foods at local farmer's markets.
What is your best-selling product/service?
Hard to say one item is my best seller. I take pride in curating only fine Italian imports and use the best quality ingredients (local and imported) for my cooking. There seem to be many favorites; some of them include my artisan flatbread pizzas, salads, hummus, fine olive oils, balsamic vinegar, and Calabrian chili peppers.
How many local businesses do you use to support your business (products and services) and can you name them?
I am a big supporter of local farms. I obtain local produce and ingredients whenever possible. Some of the farms include Ambler and Millstone Farms in Wilton, Geremia Farms in Wallingford, Arethusa Dairy Farm in Litchfield, Lost Ruby Goat Farm in Litchfield, Oui Charcuterie in Woodbridge CT, Ariston Specialties in Bloomfield CT, Wild Hive Farms in Clinton NY, and more.
Have you "reimagined" your small business?
I began selling Italian imported products online while working in my previous career. Within a year I decided to begin selling prepared foods in person. Using the best of my imported ingredients and locally grown produce, the business has grown into a specialty type food business providing quality imported products and prepared foods.
Dani would like to nominate Bubble and Brew beverage to be featured next - "They are a mobile service based in nearby Wilton!"
Dani’s Pantry is located at 45 Ethan Allen Hwy in Ridgefield. Visit Dani’s Pantry online here, and make sure to check out their Facebook and Instagram pages as well!
HamletHub thanks Fairfield County Bank for making our Why Small Businesses Matter series possible!