Summer Black, owner of Fleur De Crème Gourmet Ice Cream, is one local businesswoman who knows how to give life a bit of flavorful fun. Black started her ice cream business in July 2014. She and her husband are both Shreveport natives, having relocated back home from Baton Rouge. They love supporting local businesses and sharing their delicious brand of creativity with their community.

What inspired you to start Fleur De Crème?

Black: When I moved back home, I was really impressed with the ‘Eat Local’ campaign that has swept the area. However, I noticed that it lacked any local ice cream. I wanted to help fill that void and create something unique to Shreveport.

Q: What is your favorite part of your job?

Black: The best part has to be actually serving people and being present for their facial expressions. I love how personable everyone in this city is, so being afforded the opportunity to interact with people is a lot of fun.

Q: What surprised you most about starting the business?

Black: The most surprising thing about starting this business has been the opportunities that are available for entrepreneurs and artists in Shreveport. The definition of professional is changing in this city to include the small business owner, as well as all of the creative juggernauts. If you are more inclined to specialize in the development in your product, there are programs at Cohab and Louisiana Startup Prize that will provide resources to learn more about developing a business. I was not aware of any of these things when I began my business, but I want to tell everyone now and encourage as many people as possible to follow their dreams!

Q: What would you tell other women about going for their dreams or goals?

Black: Don’t wait another day or even moment to pursue something that makes you happy. If you are reading this and have not begun mapping out your future to include your dreams, then sit down and work on your plan for 20 minutes right now. When you begin believing in your dreams, support will begin to pour in from the most unexpected sources.

Q: Does faith play a part in your life?

Black: I was never very religious until I began this journey of following my dreams. But the chain of events that has unfolded and the incredibly gifted people that have entered my life is not by coincidence. The love and support that I have been given is not by chance. I am blessed. A good friend that attends seminary and his wife have begun teaching and talking to me, regardless of how cynical I once was. That love and understanding comes from a greater place.

Q: What is your passion?

Black: My passion is people. I love to ask and learn from absolutely everyone around me and I am hardly intimidated of anyone. That blind fearlessness has allowed me to learn on so many different levels and is the most priceless gift I have been given.

Q: Where do you hope to see Fleur De Créme in the next year? Five years?

Black: Expectations lead to let downs but goals lead to success. So, I plan to shoot for the stars but have zero assumptions about what I will achieve. I just plan to work hard and set achievable milestones for myself.

Q: Where exactly do you sell and what do you offer?

Black: Our products are available at Maxwell’s Market and Vitamins Plus. Additionally, we offer catering services and create custom flavors by special order.

Q: What motivates you daily?

Black: My community motivates me. These amazing men and women that are collectively working together to make Shreveport a better place for all of us to call home is motivating beyond measure.