We had the good fortune of connecting with Arda Sitiprawet and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Arda, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Before I started SugarCube Marshmallows, I wanted to start a business that would be unique but also create an impact of some kind in the food community. SugarCube Marshmallows specializes in homemade small batch marshmallows with a focus on Asian flavors. Marshmallows have always been that iconic treat that people can enjoy in multiple ways and anytime of the year. However, not many people are familiar with anything other than the generic store bought variety. By starting SugarCube Marshmallows, I wanted to show people that this well known treat can taste way more amazing when made with care and I wanted to bring forward and highlight all of the amazing Asian flavors from my childhood and community. I wanted to bring awareness of the many amazing Asian Flavors and what’s better to highlight them in a soft and fluffy treat!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
SugarCube Marshmallows specializes in small batch homemade marshmallows with Asian Flavors. What sets my business apart from others are the flavors for sure. There are so many wonderful and amazing flavors from many Asian cultures and I wanted to highlight them in a well known treat. I’m definitely excited to bring more awareness of the many Asian flavors to the world! During my pop ups, whenever I get an excited face after tasting my marshmallows, I get an amazing accomplishment feeling.

The business has been open for about 7 months now and its been an amazing experience so far learning so much about the food industry and starting a business. It was definitely not easy in the beginning since home based food businesses are so specific and laws around it are always changing so it required a ton of research and connecting with fellow home cooks. I learned so much and also made some great connections along the way!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
So I’m based here in San Francisco (Born and Raised) and I would say that when visiting, you definitely must take in the iconic sites and eat all the amazing food! First visit would be Pier 39 to walk around and visit all of the small shops in the area and of course to see the famous sea lions. Then next would be to grab lunch at the Ferry Building and take in picturesque sites of the Bay Bridge. If its a Saturday, then definitely checking out every stall at the Ferry Building Farmers Market. Next stop, depending on what you like to do, would be to go shopping in downtown union square and enjoying the many food options in the area such as Afternoon tea in the rotunda at Neiman Marcus or Ramen at Mensho. After downtown, we can head over to the the Palace of Fine Arts to take some amazing photos and grab dessert at Ghirardelli in Ghirardelli Square. Of course, no visit is complete without walking the Golden Gate Bridge! Though it can get pretty foggy most days, the bridge is always amazing to see in person. For those who enjoys museums, we can head over to Golden Gate Park and can either visit and learn about nature and animals at the Academy of Science or look at amazing art at the De Young Museum. And of course, explore the park! These are just the most famous and main things to do here in the city and the list can go on and on!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I definitely want to give a Shoutout to my Parents and my Husband! Growing up, I came from a family of foodies and entrepreneurs which definitely have influenced my choices and goals. Whenever I had an idea for a business, my parents would always be supportive and would push me to go for my goals. I can say that my mom is my #1 salesman! I also want to thank my Husband for always being my #1 fan and supporting all the aspects of my business.

Website: sugarcubemarshmallows.com

Instagram: @sugarcubemarsh

Facebook: facebook.com/sugarcubemarsh

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