Exploring Life & Business with Mary Raley of Maggie’s Popcorn & Nuts

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Raley. 

Hi Mary, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My parents started Maggie’s when I was 12 years old. We would do events and festivals in the Pittsburg Kansas Area with Cinnamon Glazed Nuts and Gourmet Popcorn. I helped my parents throughout High School and while I attended college. I eventually got a manager job at a local custard company where I eventually became a district manager in Joplin, Missouri. I worked for that company for 7 years but continued to help my parents with events. In May 2011, I lost my home and was severely injured in the Joplin tornado. I relocated to Ottawa Kansas where my boyfriend now husband lived. We started doing local events in Ottawa Kansas and surrounding areas with our Glazed nuts and Popcorn and got such a great response we decided to open a store front in 2017 and have been going strong ever since. After opening in 2017 we purchased the 140-year-old building and since then have expanded our business to carry over 20 flavors of gourmet popcorn, homemade fudge, old-fashioned candy, and old-fashioned shakes, malts, and sundaes. Maggie’s is involved in the community with helping local schools and organizations with popcorn fundraisers.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has been challenging and very rewarding. Learning what customers like and what you can do better on. The year 2020 and 2021 were and have been challenging with supply shortages and covid. Learning to implement new and fun ideas with challenging and changing times.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Maggie’s Popcorn & Nuts?
We are known for our Gourmet popcorn, over 20 flavors, Cinnamon Glazed Nuts, Old Fashioned Fudge, old fashioned candy. We also have old-fashioned hand-dipped Ice cream, over 14 flavors, Milkshakes, Malts, and Sundaes. We make homemade Cinnamon Rolls, Pies and cookies. We also have a party room for Birthdays and special occasions. We are a family/veteran-owned business.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I love Ottawa Kansas! I love the feel of our downtown and the community involvement. Our town takes pride in taking care of and preserving its town. I think our town is the best! Its a very inviting community and would encourage everyone to visit!!

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.maggiespopcornandnuts.com
• Facebook: @maggiespopcornandnuts

Image Credits
Mary Raley