If you have a sweet tooth, prepare to be tempted. Creating Nashville’s first Black- and woman-owned cotton candy company in 2017 on somewhat of a whim, Teneal Ivery has proven to be a savvy businesswoman with an knack for coming up with irresistible flavors. From Maple Bacon and Nashville Hot cotton candy to boozy popcorn, Ivory Cotton Bar puts a “modern spin on timeless treats.”
Whether you’re looking for a fun little “extra” for your next event (she has nostalgic mobile carts that can spin cotton candy anytime, anywhere) or you’re ordering from her online shop to indulge your own cravings, Teneal has you covered. Get to know this innovative FACE of Nashville!
Where are you from, and what brought you to Nashville?
I was born in Memphis, TN, and raised in the small town of Henderson, TN. I came to Nashville at the young age of 18 to attend college, and 20 years later, I am still here! So, I like to say I grew up in Nashville.
Before we go any further, what inspired you to start Ivory Cotton Bar?
After undergrad, I continued my education with an MBA. I have always been interested in business and wanted to own a business. However, I wasn’t sure exactly what that business would be. One day, while doing some online research, I found that machine-spun cotton candy was invented in Nashville by a local candy maker — and a dentist, of all people! This caused a light bulb to go off in my head and sent me down a rabbit hole of all things cotton candy.
I found that there were no cotton candy companies in Nashville, and I felt that was such a shame, considering the historical ties to Nashville. Not to mention, I already had an affinity for cotton candy, so it was kind of a no-brainer. Then, just like that, Nashville’s first cotton candy company was born.
Why were you drawn to organic cotton candy, and how does it differ from what we’ve tasted before?
When I started Ivory Cotton Bar in February of 2017, there wasn’t much available information on starting or running a cotton candy company. After all, it is a very niche market. Because of this, there was a lot of trial and error in the beginning.
Originally, I purchased premade sugars like what people think about when they think of pink or blue cotton candy … which aren’t flavors, by the way. Within the first month, I knew I wanted to put a modern spin on a timeless treat, so I began making my own custom flavors. I figured this could help set my company apart, and it could also give me the opportunity to do cotton candy in a healthier way.
Once you taste it, you can instantly tell it isn’t that old-school pink or blue stuff. It is lighter and fluffier, and you can actually identify the flavor profiles. Most importantly, you taste flavor, not food dye.
What are some of your most popular cotton candy flavors? If we could only try one flavor, what should we choose and why?
Some of the most popular flavors are Strawberry Lemonade, Cookies and Cream, Maple Bacon, Peach Cobbler, Orange Sorbet, and Tennessee Whiskey. Of course, this is Nashville, so yes, it is infused with actual whiskey.
If you were to try one flavor, I would recommend Orange Sorbet because it is truly shocking how much it tastes just like orange sorbet ice cream.
You serve so much more than cotton candy. What else should we come in for?
We carry cotton candy-topped lemonade and [natural] fruit slushes. Both of those come in clutch during the summer heat. We have also added churros to the menu starting this spring. You definitely don’t want to miss fresh churros with all the fixings.
Talk to us about your boozy popcorn and cotton candy!
Our boozy popcorn and cotton candy are definitely popular with adults and a huge hit at corporate events! People really love the idea of having an adult treat with a nostalgic vibe. We infuse the sugar or popcorn with a liquor of the client’s choosing, and the magic is a trade secret.
You have an online shop and adorable mobile carts for events. You’re even sold at Macy’s and BNA! To what do you owe the rapid growth of your business?
Honestly, I give all the credit to God. He gave me this business. I’ve been blessed every step of the way. I do my part by being relentless, cold calling, sending out samples, and spending most nights researching new opportunities and business trends on my laptop.
Who are some of your mentors, and how did they impact you?
Karlton Dennis. He has given me countless tips on taxes and business structure.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Reading is fundamental. In most instances, we are our own limitations. Accept that your wildest dream can come true if you allow it.
Outside of faith, family, and friends, what three things can’t you live without?
Three things that I can’t live without are travel, good food, and sunny days.
LIGHTNING ROUND:
Go-to Nashville spot for a sweet treat: Nothing Bundt Cakes
Last memorable meal in Nashville: Jeff Ruby’s, for my birthday
Destination at the top of your travel bucket list:Â Fly First Class Emirates to Dubai
Favorite local hidden gem:Â Darfons restaurant
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Nashville women are doing inspiring work. Meet more of them over at our FACES archives!
