Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Cherry
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
The Dip Dispensary started as an idea born out of a big life shift. In March 2023, I (Melissa) stepped away from my previous job due to health complications. Once I was back on my feet, Tony casually suggested starting a business making dips and sauces. We were all in from the start.
We launched at the St. Charles Riverwalk market in June 2023, and the response was incredible. What began as a small, fun idea quickly turned into a growing business with recipes and branding that exceeded even our own expectations. From markets to online sales and wholesaling, business grew fast. In October 2023, we found a space in Elsberry, MO, where we built a commercial kitchen and opened a cozy retail shop.
After over a year, a new opportunity arose for a commercial kitchen space elsewhere, so we decided to close the shop in December 2024 and focus on expanding our reach. As we head into 2025, we’re excited for steady growth and continuing to share our dips with more people!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Overall, the journey has been pretty smooth. Running your own business comes with challenges—mainly the reality that your livelihood depends entirely on its success. It’s a different kind of pressure compared to clocking in for someone else and knowing exactly what your paycheck will look like. That said, we wouldn’t trade it for the world.
One of the biggest lessons has been learning to balance business and personal life—it’s a work in progress! The business has a way of following you home, and we’re figuring out how to set boundaries. Just to keep things exciting, about a month into launching The Dip Dispensary, I (Melissa) found out I was pregnant. That was all the motivation needed to make sure this business worked.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The Dip Dispensary is all about bringing bold flavors and fresh ideas to your table. We specialize in handcrafted dips and seasoning blends that make snacking, entertaining, and everyday meals a little more exciting. Whether you’re hosting a party or just dipping into a quiet night at home, we’ve got something to elevate every bite.
What sets us apart is the love and creativity we pour into our recipes. Each dip is crafted with care, using high-quality ingredients and flavors that stand out. We’re not just about good food—we’re about creating moments to savor and share.
One thing we’re most proud of is how much our brand resonates with our customers. From the playful name to the delicious products, The Dip Dispensary brings a sense of fun and connection to the kitchen. We started with a vision, and seeing it come to life—and into the homes of so many people—has been an incredible journey.
For anyone new to The Dip Dispensary, we want you to know that we’re always working on new flavors and ways to make your experience even better. Whether you’re shopping online, catching us at a market, or enjoying our products at a local retailer, we’re here to bring a little extra flavor and joy to your day!
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
We believe risk-taking is an essential part of creating the life you truly want. It’s terrifying, no doubt, but it’s also incredibly fulfilling. Taking risks forces you to step out of that cozy comfort zone and push the boundaries of what you thought you were capable of. With each risk you take—and each achievement that follows—you expand your level of comfort and confidence.
For us, starting The Dip Dispensary was a huge leap. It meant leaving stability behind, taking on challenges we’d never faced before, and trusting in a vision that only existed in our heads at the time. But with every step forward, we’ve felt the reward of those risks: the pride of building something from the ground up and the joy of connecting with people who love what we create.
Risk-taking isn’t about being fearless; it’s about taking the fear with you and moving forward anyway.
Contact Info:
- Website: thedipdispensary.com
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/dipdispensary
