Mike and Christine Nelson transformed their camp counselor experiences into a gourmet marshmallow business that’s all about creating joy through better s’mores. Since 2014, their all-natural marshmallows have been bringing camp-inspired happiness to events, gift boxes and lakeside gatherings across Minnesota.
THE SPARK: “My wife and I both wanted something better than the current s’mores options, without all the junk! We also wanted to do something that brought joy to people, and the best s’more you’ve ever had definitely does that!”
DAILY DRIVE: What connects Mike to his creative work is family moments and flexibility. “To be able to have flexibility with my family, to travel when we would like and to show our daughters how they can create something.”
BEHIND THE SCENES: His favorite part of creation? “I get to create fun flavors of marshmallows and custom s’mores kits for corporate gifts!” And you might be surprised to learn: “I was a history major in school, focusing on Greek and Russian history. I thought I was going to be a teacher, then I started a s’mores company!”
MILESTONE MEMORY: “Everyone loved it, and most people didn’t even know you can make your own marshmallow. When we were able to bring so much joy to people with simply a better s’more, we knew we had something special.”
LAKE AND COMPANY CONNECTION: Their partnership has lasted several years, with Vanilla Bean marshmallows being the most popular product at Lake and Company. Mike notes, “Our most popular product on our website is our S’mores Kit, though.”
LOOKING FORWARD: “We will be launching limited-time flavors this year!” And Mike’s dream? “To be able to be ‘The S’mores Guy’ for the next 30 years!”
MAKER’S ESSENTIALS:
Favorite Minnesota lake: Gull Lake
Essential tool: Sugar!
Morning ritual: Wake up a couple of hours before our kids; coffee; Wordle; and organize my thoughts for the day.
Advice for aspiring creators: Start simply and focus on a niche.
Instagram: @northmallow
Website: northmallow.com