Shortly after falling in love over their shared passion for cooking, chefs Hannah and Xavier combined forces to launch Nightingale Ice Cream Sandwiches. These signature treats are always handmade using 14% butterfat ice cream and freshly baked cookies. In addition to boasting restaurant quality, Nightingale Ice Cream Sandwiches are available in decadent flavors like Strawberry Shortcake, Chocolate Blackout, or Cookie Monster. Craving a true taste of your childhood? The Classic offers nostalgia in every bite.
Recently, we caught up with Hannah to learn more about their journey and hear her advice for fellow entrepreneurs.
1. Why did you start Nightingale Ice Cream Sandwiches?
I started Nightingale because I noticed a gap in the market for high-quality, handcrafted ice cream sandwiches that deliver a truly elevated dessert experience. I wanted to reimagine the classic treat—not just as something nostalgic, but as a product that could stand on its own as a gourmet indulgence.
Growing up in the South and working as a chef, I’ve always been passionate about creating food that brings people joy. Ice cream sandwiches hold a special place in many memories, but I felt they deserved more love, more care, and better ingredients. It’s about bringing a sense of wonder and delight to every bite.
2. What obstacles did you face along the way?
Starting Nightingale came with its challenges, from convincing people that ice cream sandwiches could be a premium dessert to scaling production without compromising quality. Logistics were also a hurdle, as ice cream requires precise cold chain distribution to maintain its integrity. Like any small business, we faced tight resources and wore many hats to grow the brand. Each obstacle pushed us to innovate and stay true to our vision, making every milestone even more rewarding.
3. What lessons do you have for other entrepreneurs?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the power of persistence. There’s a quote I love: “A river cuts through rock not because of its power, but because of its persistence.” Building a business is rarely about overnight success—it’s about showing up every day, solving problems, and staying committed to your vision, even when the path gets tough.
4. What’s on the horizon for Nightingale Ice Cream Sandwiches?
The future of Nightingale Ice Cream Sandwiches is incredibly exciting! Our main focus is expanding our national reach so that even more customers across the country can experience the magic of our handcrafted ice cream sandwiches. We’re working hard to bring Nightingale to new markets and retailers, ensuring our products are as accessible as they are delicious.
5. How do you keep work/life balance? What drives/inspires you?
Finding balance as a founder isn’t easy, but I’ve learned to set boundaries and focus on what matters most. I love spending time with my husband, Xavier, and our three dogs—whether I’m hiking, we’re cooking at home, or simply enjoying a quiet evening together. Trusting my incredible team keeps me grounded and allows me to stay focused.
I’m inspired by the joy our ice cream sandwiches bring to people—knowing we can brighten someone’s day is so rewarding. My team inspires me every day with their knowledge, dedication, and passion for their craft. Personally, I’m fueled by my love for creating, whether in the kitchen or building our brand. The opportunity to innovate and make a positive impact keeps me motivated.
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