Melissa VandenBurg — Owner at Sugar Bar Sips & Sweets

For a while now I have been wanting to expand my interview section, as that is what makes Jandroz truly unique. I stumbled upon this wonderful opportunity to interview the owner of Sugar Bar Sips & Sweets when I least expected it. After a handshake and an exchange of smiles, the interview was set. Walking into Sugar Bar I was greeted by the owner, Melissa VandenBurg. Before formally starting the interview, I need to make it clear that this is not only a bar for sweet treats, but also alcohol, something fun for the whole family on a night out in the city, featuring some of the cheapest shots in the city as well as very fun and bright seasonal cocktails. I got to see Melissa prepping the sweets while we set up for the interview. My favorite interviews are the ones where there is really no rush to get things done. To get an environment that is relaxed is a real sweet treat, and here at Sugar Bar you get exactly that.
Melissa was a manager under the old owner for only one year before getting the opportunity to own it herself. Melissa came into ownership only four weeks ago. She has always been a fan of baking. Before dedicating herself to this business she was an administrative assistant for 28 years. The big shift started when she decided she wanted to help those affected by the 2015 earthquakes across Nepal. Without knowing what else to do, she figured she could bake some cupcakes to raise money to send over there. She started with three flavors, then quickly got to six. After things had settled, she got a request to make some for a wedding. Then for another event, and another. "Things spiraled from there." Melissa had baked something for the last owner of Sugar Bar, and that is how she was able to get the manager position. It wasn't easy turning away from being an administrative assistant, but Melissa felt in her heart that she needed to take the risk. That was just to work at Sugar Bar. With only a year into the role, she was given the opportunity to purchase it. While she jokes about how this is her midlife crisis job, it is clear she is capable and willing to do whatever it takes to succeed.
Melissa's favorite part of owning Sugar Bar is the staff. "They are creative geniuses." While Melissa employs some of her family members, she also has a team of VIP Staff that consists of six women with Down syndrome. These women are amazing and do all the same tasks that anyone else would, while adding a lot more joyous flair to the business. They write on cards to convey their appreciation toward the staff and the customers, with notes such as "Sugar Bar Loves You" and "Melissa Is The Best!" Melissa showed me these, and since I thought they were so sweet, I laid them out for everyone to see while I conducted the rest of the interview. Unfortunately I was unable to get a picture of the VIP Staff all together. You will have to go find them working throughout the weekdays, as they typically have the weekends off. Melissa dreams of expanding the VIP team to give opportunities to more people with disabilities. Melissa is truly grateful to all her customers, as when they support her business they support the ability to expand and hire more people with disabilities, giving them a structured routine that is helpful, fun, and beneficial in a much larger way than just financially.
While we were having our conversation, I got to see how Melissa treats all her customers, not only going above and beyond for all of them, but also making an effort to make their days better, whether it was with jokes, compliments, or just her kind smile. Melissa tells me, "The only thing you can control in this business is how you treat people." Regardless of how your day is going, sharing a smile with a stranger can never make you feel worse. As Melissa and I are on this subject, we go over the homeless population of Grand Rapids. She tells me that as long as people are respectful of her and her space, she will always try to help, whether it's a cup of joe, water, or just warmth for a bit. She is happy to talk to them, knowing many by name.
My three topic format will naturally not be able to reveal everything we talked about, but I believe these paragraphs show just what kind of person and business owner she is. Melissa hosts a game that is free to play on Thursday evenings called Unclaimed Bingo. It has been an absolute hit at Sugar Bar Sips & Sweets. Melissa will gladly explain Unclaimed Bingo better than I can when you go and play for yourself.
Thank you for your time, Melissa. It was an honor getting a peek into your life. I wish you success in the ways you want it, and safety for your family.
Chow to chow ~ Jandroz.

This interview is a standalone feature and is not connected to a restaurant review.