Two Tampa Businesses That are Offering Experiences & Products You Get Can’t Get Online
I love traveling and exploring the world, but as a Florida girl, I have to say there’s nothing like finding local gems like mom and pop shops that help a community come together. On a recent road trip to Tampa, thanks to American Express, I got to experience two unique companies that are giving locals an unforgettable experience and product. Both definitely inspired me to creatively continue to think outside the box with my personal business. Even though internet-based businesses are growing, but there is still a strong desire in people for a special, brick and mortar experience that they just can’t get off the web.
My first stop was the Mini Doughnut Factory. They’ve been voted the number one doughnut shop every year since opening two years ago. I was excited to learn about their recipe for success and to also take a bite out of it. Owners, husband and wife duo, Patrick & Zezura Ruddell were real-estate investors before getting into the culinary world. They wanted a recession proof business and they thought making mini versions of one America’s favorite desserts was their answer. They were right. In a couple of weeks, they will be expanding with a second outpost in St. Petersburg. It will be larger, serve beer and wine, and they will roast their own coffee. The couple also plans to expand in Orlando and Miami. I was curious to know why they chose mini doughnuts instead of regular sized ones. Patrick’s answer was simple: “Everything is made to order on the spot and customers can choose their own flavors and toppings,” said Patrick. “People like a variety of flavors and they can get this with the minis. It’s easier to make them fresh like this than a larger doughnut.” The health conscious are also fans since most minis average around 70 calories. Vegan and gluten-free versions are also available. Delicious doughnuts without the guilt? I was in heaven. I tried a couple of flavors like Guava and Cheese.
Right now, the shop offers 16 set flavors and 7 on the secret menu which is accessible to patrons only via their social media channels – @minidoughnutfactory on Facebook and Instagram and Twitter. The Ruddells are really big on their customer feedback. In fact, one of their set flavors Samoas, which is a hybrid version of a Girl Scout Cookie of the same name and donut, was born because a customer suggested it. On the menu, you’ll find Cookies and Cream, Fruity Peebles, Peanut Butter Cup and the Homer Simpson to name a few. They’re also always adding seasonal additions like pumpkin. There’s even a flavor with Sriracha sauce, but you’ll have to get on their social media channels to find out what it is since it’s a secret menu flavor. So how does American Express help this South Tampa business? Zezura said that they get a lot of corporate orders because they accept American Express. That’s not surprising since over 1,500 restaurant locations in Tampa-St. Petersburg area started accepting American Express® Cards in 2016.
My next stop was popular meeting spot, Oxford Exchange, that houses restaurants, a bookshop, a home decor store as well as handful of pop ups like Warby Parker, Buddy Brew Coffee and Tebella Tea Company. On average, four thousand people walk through this building a week. Once I stepped inside, I fell in love. It felt like I had been transported somewhere in Europe. Director of Retail, Jess Anderson said the decor has a lot of worldly influence. “It feels like you’re in a train station in Paris or London,” said Jess. I couldn’t of agreed more.
Each room is different from the lighting, floor, architecture, the feeling, and the scent. Co-owner Blake Casper is really into the theater and he wanted the Oxford Exchange to be a theatrical experience for patrons. Allison Adams, his sister, is the other owner. Together, they launched this eclectic meeting place five years ago.
These days, Jess works closely with Allison. They do a lot of shopping trips together around the world to look for items to stock the retail shop with. The store is also brimming with indie brands, local labels and the Oxford Exchange’s own line which is composed of candles, journals and chocolates.
“People like coming to the Oxford Exchange because everyone is looking for an experience that they can’t get online,” said Allison. “We merchandise the shop to inspire people to want to discover and explore,” added Jess. “We don’t have it organized by color or theme. We want people to pick things up and take their time and look and comb through.” With the owners being avid users of American Express, they were happy to welcome the card from day one and they know their customers appreciate that, too! I had such a great time exploring Tampa and meeting with Patrick & Zezura Ruddell from Mini Doughnut Factory and Jess Anderson and Allison Adams from the Oxford Exchange. It’s these experiences that make these trips even more memorable. If you’re thinking about planning a road trip like mine, rent your car, fill up your tank, book your hotel and pay for it with your American Express® Card. Sponsored by American Express
Interviews: by TheFashionPoet.com and photography by DanielleMargherite.com
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