How It All Started
Creative Flavors & Specialties all began 40 years ago when I walked into a local business looking for a job to help support my family. I was the youngest of 8 siblings and barely 14 years old and I already understood that every little bit helped, so off I went. I found myself in a lab sweeping the floor and washing out pipettes and beakers. The lab was very busy and only had one lab technician. One day my boss asked me if I wanted to learn how to compound formulas. I agreed, and what seemed like overnight, my responsibilities consisted of duplications, color matches, quality control and compounding formulas. At first it was not easy but my boss was such a great teacher. When I would have those days where you feel like you just can’t get it right she would be right there yelling from across the lab:
“ Don’t worry Es, you’ll get it!”
I guess that was all the inspiration I needed and it all just started coming very natural to me. I was so grateful for having a job and even more fascinated about what I would be making. I walked or rode my bike to work everyday, rain or shine. I never missed a day. Yes, I was still responsible for cleaning the pipettes and beakers. Not only was it a part of my job description, I knew how important it was to maintain a clean work environment, so I never left without making sure they were spotless everyday. I worked so hard that on my 17th birthday, my boss cosigned a loan for me to get my first car. I was also given a raise to make sure I could pay for it. I worked for her for 15 years and since then, I’ve worked in 3 major flavor and compounding companies. Now I’m the proud owner of Creative Flavors & Specialties, along with my son Michael.
Our Philosophy
- Esther
At Creative Flavors & Specialties, our mission is to provide innovative product solutions by using nothing but certified, quality ingredients. We want to provide people across the globe with superior flavoring solutions whether you’re starting a new product line or just looking to enhance what you currently have and just need a little direction. We understand how important being a satisfied customer is to you because you are to us. That’s our mission!
- Michael
