Nourishing Community: How Vicky Nguyen’s Yummmm!Bar Delivers Wholesome Ingredients and Joy

Vicky Nguyen, founder of Yummmm!Bar, is on a mission to make healthy, handcrafted snacks accessible and delicious for modern families. Inspired by her own search for nutritious options and fueled by a passion for sustainability and creative flavor, Vicky has built a brand that’s about more than just food; it’s about connection, wellness, and community.

Learn more about Vicky’s journey, her approach to business and the heart behind Yummmm!Bar in this interview with Artisan Joy.

How did you get started creating your product?

Yummmm!Bar started from a personal need for truly healthy, satisfying snacks while juggling a busy lifestyle. Frustrated by store-bought bars that were misleading and unhealthy, I began crafting my own bars with a focus on taste, functionality and nutrition.

When did you realize that you could sell your product?

Encouraged by positive feedback from family and coworkers, I launched Yummmm!Bar at farmers markets, where both adults and kids embraced the product. Now, Yummmm!Bar is about more than just snacks; it's about building a community focused on healthy, nourishing choices.

How do you define success for your business?

I define success by the positive reactions from my customers and community, especially when kids—the pickiest eaters—love the bars. Seeing families enjoy them so much that they even argue over the last one is a testament to the impact. Additionally, word of mouth and opportunities to work at events and health fairs are key markers of success.

Where do you find inspiration for your work?

I find inspiration for flavors through my travels, like the Bali Bliss Bar, as well as suggestions from customers and ideas from Instagram. These sources help keep the creations fresh and enticing.

What's one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you first started your business?

I wish someone had advised me to hire an accountant and bookkeeper from the start. It’s easy to underestimate the non-creative, behind-the-scenes work that comes with running a business, which can often be the most challenging part.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start selling their art or creative product?

My advice is to just start and stay consistent. Be your own biggest promoter and cheerleader; no one can sell your product better than you! Build confidence in what you create and take pride in it every step of the way.

What's something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

People might be surprised to learn that I'm actually an introvert who loves alone time to recharge, especially after hosting events. I enjoy traveling to third-world countries for authentic, local experiences, embracing the culture and people.

How do you handle perfectionism?

I’ve learned to handle perfectionism by accepting that things don’t always have to be perfect, and that’s okay. While perfectionism can be a strength, it can also be draining when there isn’t enough time to focus on every detail. Over time, I’ve learned to let go, set boundaries, and be comfortable with imperfection.

What's something that surprised you about running a creative business?

I was surprised by how much I had to learn about bookkeeping and putting myself out there, especially since I used to be shy. Running a creative business has taught me to embrace rejection and keep going. I also discovered that selling can be about educating others, rather than feeling like a salesperson.

What’s your advice for handling the highs and lows of running a business?

Celebrate the highs and give yourself grace during the lows because both are inevitable in running a business. Accept that challenges will come, but it's how you handle them that matters. Stay resilient and keep moving forward.

Has someone ever criticized your work? How did you handle it?

Some people think the bars are too expensive or they’re not to everyone's taste. When that happens, I remind myself that such feedback often comes from those who aren't my target audience. I handle it by understanding that the criticism isn’t personal. It’s not a reflection of my personal worth or the value of my work.

What's a cause you are passionate about?

I am deeply passionate about helping the less fortunate. That’s why my team and I volunteer with the Restoration Project, a nonprofit dedicated to helping the homeless regain their identity and purpose. I have been so moved by the community's warmth and acts of compassion. To learn more or get involved, you can visit their website at restorationproject.org.

Can you share the name of a supplier or vendor that you use for your business that you just love—one that makes running your business a bit easier?

Hiring a content writer has been a game-changer for my business, as it allows me to trust that tasks are handled effectively without needing to be involved in every detail. This has streamlined my workload, and she has made the process seamless.

What brings you joy?

Walking my sister’s dog, Whiskey, every morning brings me immense joy. His wagging tail and cheerful presence can instantly lift my mood, especially on a tough day.

Thanks, Vicky! You can learn more about her brand at yummmmbar.com.

Editor’s Note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity.