It has been a remarkably busy year, and I wanted to take a moment to share a major milestone in the Naked Jam story. Building our very own dedicated commercial kitchen!
Back in January, I moved out of my previous unit in search of a new location that felt more authentic to the Naked Jam vision, a place where we could cook and produce our small-batch preserves. I searched high and low across the region, but nothing seemed quite right. That was until I stumbled across a premises that, at first glance, looked nothing like a kitchen at all it was an old furniture shop!
Finding Potential in an Unexpected Place
Stepping into an empty retail store, I wrestled with doubt. I worried, questioned, and constantly debated whether transforming a former furniture showroom into a food production kitchen was the right move.
Those doubts began to fade after a conversation with the wonderfully supportive landlord, Mr. Stuart Bailey. He reassured me that the space could become whatever I envisioned, encouraging me to take the leap and transform it into something truly special.
A Garden Built for Jam-Making
What truly sealed the deal was stepping out the back door. Beyond the retail room was a wonderful garden space. The perfect plot to grow our own fresh fruit, tend a greenhouse, and even set up hives for future beekeeping projects.
Having a garden on-site meant we could experience the entire journey of artisan preserve-making right here. From harvesting fresh fruit in the garden straight to the jam pan. Seeing that potential made everything click. I signed on the dotted line, ready to bring the vision to life.
Sledgehammers, YouTube, and Hard Work
Armed with a plan, a sledgehammer, and endless hours spent watching construction and plumbing tutorials on YouTube, I set to work. Converting a former shop into a fully compliant commercial kitchen was a monumental task. But every coat of paint, set of prep tables, and installed cooking station brought us closer to our goal.
Looking back on the dust, sweat, and transformation, I couldn't be prouder of this home for our jams and preserves. Here is the story of our kitchen build in pictures!
