Jillian’s Farmstead Kitchen
“I am so proud of the growth we have had and continue to look forward to the future.”
Background
A Recipe for Growth
When Jillian Korugic first connected with the Shenandoah Valley Small Business Development Center (SBDC), she was turning a passion for homemade meals into a business. With guidance from the SBDC, she developed a business plan, refined her marketing strategy, and gained the confidence to grow beyond farmers’ markets and special orders. That early support helped lay the foundation for what Jillian’s Farmstead Kitchen has become today.
Working With SBDC
Using Start Smart to Iron Out the Details
Jillian worked with the SBDC to strengthen her business foundation, plan for growth, and navigate the challenges of turning her homemade meals into a sustainable business.
The SBDC has remained a trusted resource as the business continues to evolve. Jillian now works with the Laurel Ridge SBDC, where advisors help her think through expansion plans, brainstorm new ideas, and develop practical tools like a catering contract for clients.
Outcome
A Brick-And-Mortar Milestone
In Mount Jackson, Jillian’s Farmstead Kitchen has reached one of its biggest milestones yet: opening its first brick-and-mortar and building, complete with its own catering service, and a team to support its growing business.
Located at 5421 Main Street, Suite 600, in Mount Jackson, the new storefront has transformed the business into much more than a place to grab lunch. The shop offers a large grab-and-go selection featuring homemade meals, sides, desserts, and a fully stocked freezer with entrées, breakfast items, and baked goods, making it easy for families to enjoy home-cooked meals any day of the week.
“We can be your meal plan,” Jillian said. “Shop our cooler and freezer to make meals a breeze.”
Growing With the Community in Mind
Looking ahead, Jillian hopes to expand the Mount Jackson location to create additional dining space and a reservable area for business meetings, book clubs, birthday parties, and other small gatherings. Her goal is to create a welcoming space where customers can connect, celebrate, and enjoy meals made with care.
For Jillian, however, success is measured by more than growth. It’s found in the relationships built through food. One customer who helps care for his aging parents visits the store several times each week for lunch specials and family meals. Jillian’s homemade meals have helped take some of the stress off his shoulders, making it easier for him to provide meals for his family. They enjoy the food so much that they purchased a separate freezer specifically to stock up on Jillian’s homemade entrées.
More Than a Meal
Reflecting on the journey, Jillian is grateful not only for the growth of her business but also for the support of the community that has embraced it.
“I am so proud of the growth we have had and continue to look forward to the future,” she said. “Shenandoah County has been so very welcoming to us, and the Town of Mount Jackson has embraced us in a huge hug. It truly means the world to us.”
A full menu and hours of operation can be found at https://jilliansfarmsteadkitchen.com/
