Hello,
Jenny here. I have had a fantastic time making assorted flavours of marmalade at my home in Ross on Wye.
I ran out of all my fruit jams by Christmas…and when I looked in my store cupboard it was totally empty. That was such a lovely
surprise and I got some fabulous feedback I’m delighted to say. I also have some super customers who return again and again. And that means everything to me.
So back to marmalade. As I discovered by trial and error…purchasing citrus fruit in this country was getting to a point where the fruit was just not up to scratch. I’m not going to mention politics….which to my friends will be a total shock!!!
However, I was very lucky to find a collective in Europe who have supplied me with Lemons, Oranges and Grapefruits. So never thinking I could import such things, I have discovered the best fruits I have ever seen or eaten. Picked on the day of order and despatched asap. They arrive in England about 3/4 weeks later in magnificent condition. And it’s true to say the flavours are magnified in my preserves. The Torocco Oranges were a delight…and several got eaten before the jamming started. I just wish the citrus season wasn’t over…and I could get more….but next year .. all being well … I shall double my orders.
I have been attending some lovely local produce fairs and markets and sold a very happy amount of preserves. People who sampled them…purchased them. You have no idea how lovely it is when someone’s face turns from inquisitive to pure surprise and happiness. The smiles just make it all worthwhile.
I have come home on a high many times….and those that know me know I can talk for England…and I have…I’ve been elated by the complements I have received. I’ve even sent out packages to folk who aren’t local. That in itself proves all to me.
I have been fortunate to meet people from all over. I never, in a million years, thought my little jamming business would be so amazingly well received. I am joyous!
Now, in truth, I couldn’t do this without the support of my family who have encouraged me every step of the way.
Especially my lovely man Phil. When he retired it never occurred to me that he would get so involved and become a major player in our venture. He has and he’s amazing. There’s so much more to do than the making of the preserve…and that’s mostly done by him. So it’s been a joint venture…but guess what
folks…..I’m the mouthpiece…!!! What I hear you say? You’re not surprised!!!! Well you definitely know me then!!!
No additives, no preservatives….just fruit and sugar. I’m very proud of that. I even got a phonecall from the manager of a company called Certo. They make a manufactured pectin to help set your preserves. My Mum used it donkeys years ago to make strawberry jam …which is hard to set. Anyways, he was a very nice man…but I had to say no. But it was kind of him to think our little business was worth calling!
I have to wait a while now…cos production has ceased until the summer…when fruits will hopefully have ripened and I can get to the farms to purchase the summer fruits we all love.
So time to catch up on other things …housework!!! Gardening…difficult due to physical problems…so I need a willing volunteer……….Phil…..Phil!!!?
Hope you have enjoyed reading an insight into Jams and Jellies. I thank all my customers and look forward to meeting more.
Love and best wishes to all.
Jenny