Lani here, with an update on our operations under the name Big Spoon Sauce Co. We are looking forward to continuing the saucy small business journey under a new name. But we are asking for your help to get our rebrand off the ground!
Our GoFundMe page is live.
It's been a long time since I've shared anything about the trademark dispute over our company name. In case you are new to following us, here's a quick catch up: earlier this year, we faced an unexpected legal challenge that has resulted in us needing to transition away from the name Big Spoon. Legally, all I am permitted to share on the matter today is the following:
‘The Parties have agreed to resolve the dispute outside of court. Big Spoon Sauce Co. will abandon its registered trademarks and rebrand its business and products to no longer use the term ‘Big Spoon.’ Neither business received payment as part of the settlement. Both parties look forward to full resolution of the matter and moving forward with their respective businesses.’
Now, we are SO looking forward to putting this chapter behind us and to focus the entirety of our energy on creating more joy. That is the essence of this chili crisp project, no matter what it's called. We created something that was bold and unapologetic and a flavor experience with no rules. We partnered with local farmers, growers, and chefs and introduced our community to coriander-raspberry ice cream chili crisp sandwiches, Meyer lemon chili crisp + Thai sausage sourdough pizza, and a habanero chili crisp-laced fried chicken sandwich.
It's with this energy that we humbly ask for your help in rebuilding the brand so we can continue operations under a new name.
We appreciate everyone who reached out to us asking about a legal fund to help us weather the trademark predicament. At that time, it didn’t feel right to ask our community for help defending ourselves. We decided it was more appropriate to ask for assistance with our rebuilding effort, to raise the resources to pay local creatives rather than a legal team.
If you are in the position to donate, we'd appreciate any amount of help to reach our fundraising goal. Every dollar will get us closer to relaunching this small business and continue to share the flavors, traditions, and non-traditions we are most passionate about.
There is more information on the GoFundMe page about where these funds will go!
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We very much understand that these are uncertain times and now may not be the right time for people to give financially. There are so many other ways you can support us:
1. Spread the word. Forward this email to a friend who loves chili crisp, supports small businesses, or with anyone you think might resonate with our story. Share our GoFundMe link in your group chats and on social media!
2. Leave a review! If you've purchased our chili crisp in the past, write a review on our website! It helps others discover the product line as we prepare to make a big transition in our digital presence.
3. Tell your local stores! Let your neighborhood grocery or specialty shop know that you'd love to see our chili crisp on their shelves. Your recommendations go a long way!
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And as usual, please support our online store! Your purchase today goes straight towards our rebrand budget. We will also be set up at the Sebastopol Farmers Market tomorrow (and every Sunday after that!) from 9am-1:30pm.
Thank you for your support and for reading this post. It's been a privilege to be a part of your routine and take up space on your countertop :)
xo+sauce,
Lani
