FAHM Feature: “Big Pivot Energy” Keeps Berry&Thyme Tenacious | Sacramento Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce

Oct 13th, 2021

In celebration of Filipinx American History Month (October), we’re focusing our small business highlights on Filipinx-owned businesses in Sacramento.

“Unique. Just like you.” That’s how Erin Burrise describes Berry&Thyme, her botanically infused fruit preserves business. The business launched on October 1, 2020, while the coronavirus pandemic continued to affect businesses at every level.

“It is a beauty and a curse to start and run a business during a global pandemic. The beauty is that this chaos is all I know,” Erin said. “All this chaos for my entire first year of business has given me a strong foundation and what I like to call ‘Big Pivot Energy,’ because being flexible and making pivots is all I’ve done.”

Erin maintained this energy from the start. Originally, she had envisioned a charcuterie board company, and the idea for botanically infused jams evolved during the brainstorming process. Not long after, Erin started making jam and fell in love with the art of fruit preserving. Berry&Thyme was born, and delicious creations like Strawberry & Lavender jam, Blood Orange & Rose marmalade, and Pineapple & Habanero jam followed.

“Big Pivot Energy” makes Erin and her business resilient as the pandemic continues. The small businessowner said, “I’m so thankful for it, because if I can power through these hard times, then I know I can be even more successful without the numerous roadblocks in the way.”

Since the business’ conception, Erin has tackled supply shortages and increased supply prices all while facing the usual growing pains experienced by new businesses. She faced these obstacles as both the businessowner and the only employee in the kitchen. Erin makes each batch and pours, seals, labels, and ships every jar and Berry&Thyme order herself.

“I truly do put all of myself and my love into sharing the jam and marmalade I make, and I hope it shows and is felt by folks enjoying it,” she said.

With uncommon flavors pairings, Berry&Thyme products are inspired by Erin’s experiences and creativity – she said 95% of flavors come to her by intuition, and 5% are typically inspired by cocktails and beverages she’s seen or heard about. The businessowner explained how her cultural experiences also framed her tastes.

“I have great pride in growing up in a Filipino American and African American household, and I know my exposure to both cultures shaped my palate,” Erin said. “I recognize being a Filipino and Black jam maker is not something folks often see, and it’s important to me to take a seat at this table and be a positive influence.”

She continues to honor her cultures by donating proceeds to organizations and fundraising for high school clubs like the Sariwa Club at Cesar Chavez High School in her hometown of Stockton. Additionally, the businessowner has donated to Taking Ownership PDX, an organization that renovates Black-owned homes with an emphasis on enabling Black homeowners to age in place. While she gives back to her communities, Erin also looks toward the future.

“I know once I can get into a commercial kitchen space and hire helping hands, we can produce more products, be in more people’s mouths and bellies, and pour more proceeds into our community by donating to local organizations,” she said. “Berry&Thyme is my first real step into the food industry, and I would love to share the knowledge I have gained about preserving with folks who may otherwise not have the opportunity to do so.”

Collaboration is already a part of the venture as Berry&Thyme has previously worked with local businesses like Joon Market, Plum Patrol Bakery, and Mahina + Soul.

“The small business scene in Sacramento is robust and full of talent and I feel so fortunate to be part of it. I’m in awe and shocked from the enthusiasm I experienced from this community in my first year,” Erin shared. “Sacramento, keep doing what you’re doing.”

Here’s where you can support Berry&Thyme:
Website: www.shopberryandthyme.com
Instagram: @berry.and.thyme
Facebook: @berryandthyme
TikTok: @berryandthyme