National Small Business Week is being celebrated this week, with the Small Business Administration recognizing various small businesses across New York. One of these businesses is Comb Grown Mead, a new Auburn-based venture that produces alcoholic beverages made from fermenting honey diluted with water.
Comb Grown Mead, which opened its doors in the summer of 2023, is owned by Elaina Ferrier, a mother of two who began her business while she was six months pregnant. The meadery was established when Ferrier found the perfect space and partnered with a landlord to bring her dream to life.
Ferrier, reflecting on her journey as a business owner, acknowledges the challenges of balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship. She highlights the importance of women who have cribs and play spaces in their businesses, as their children often accompany them to work. Despite the complexities of running a business while raising a family, Ferrier finds it all worth it.
As a small business owner, Ferrier values being a part of the local community and enjoys networking with fellow entrepreneurs. She appreciates the support and connections she has made with others in the small business community, making her journey as a business owner a rewarding experience.