Small batch preserves made by hand.
My grandfather kept a larger-than-necessary garden every year. Every summer would challenge us to preserve as much of the produce from the garden as possible.
I grew up preserving with my grandmother. We started with strawberry jam when I was so little that my mom would get mad at my grandmother for having me on a chair that close to the stove.
Ever since, I’ve had an interest in food culture: in fact, I completed my master’s thesis on ancient olive oil presses. I returned to preserving five years ago, finding it to be both something I enjoy and a great way to stretch the season of a particular fruit or vegetable. Family and friends raved over jars I gave as gifts or opened to share during gatherings.
After having my daughter, I realized that my more-than-full-time career managing museum collections was going to cause me to miss time I’d prefer to spend with family. That’s when I began working with select clients to manage their private art collections.
And in between, I started making small batches of preserves to sell.
I grew up surrounded by family businesses and always hoped to one day have one of my own. I love the idea of an opportunity that allows me to care for my daughter while giving me a creative outlet that brings together my professional skills, academic interests and genuine love of food.
With Neat Nick Preserves, I’ve found a venture that allows me to explore, experiment and continue learning while celebrating the joy people find in jams, jellies and preserves. Some people are reminded of their own childhoods, others simply enjoy finding and trying something new.
Whatever brought you here, I’m glad you found us. And I look forward to taking this new journey together.
With gratitude,
Nicole Paterson
Founder, Neat Nick Preserves
