When Erik and Shelly Alexander were looking to open their own business, they let their sweet tooth guide them.
‘Why not ice cream ? it makes everyone happy,? Shelly said.
The Alexanders, residents of Warren, opened a Marble Slab Creamery franchise at 6315 Sashabaw Road, in partnership with Tim Jarrett. Makers of rich, homemade ice cream, they mix each cone or cup to order on a frozen slab of marble.
‘It’s super-premium ice cream,? she said. ‘The taste, the flavor makes it so good.?
Erik is switching careers from the information technology field, working for a General Motors? supplier for 12 years.
‘We decided to get out do something on our own,? he said. ‘Something that’s enjoyable for the community.?
They plan to join in community activities, joining the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce.
‘We very excited to have them,? said Penny Shanks, executive director for the chamber. ‘Judging by how well the public responded at the Taste of Clarkston, they will have a nice, long life in Clarkston.?
Erik is also contacting local schools to invite students to tour the shop.
‘I’d explain the history of ice cream, show them how to make their own, and give them a taste,? he said. ‘It’s cool to see all the kids light up when they see all the ice cream and the candy on the ceiling.?
The shop stores candy, cookies, chocolate chips, and other mix-ins on shelves along the counter and ceiling.
‘We make cones around 3-4 o’clock,? Erik said. ‘The cone smell, the look of the place, puts you in the right mood for ice cream ? I can’t wait to do this full time.?
Grand opening is set for 12-10 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 20. Festivities will include Kids Coloring Contest for free ice cream, free temporary tattoos by Show Offs Body Art from 3-6 p.m., games, and guest ‘scoopers.? Twenty percent of sales will benefit Rainbow Connection.
For more information, call 248-625-8211.