Husband and wife duo Jarrard and Casey Ray were inspired to open an ice cream shop in the Rocky Ridge community by their two children, who were adamant that ice cream brings people together. With the spirit of fostering fellowship in mind, Jarrard and Casey opened the ice cream parlor in the former Continental Florist space in 2023. Open seven days a week, Sunshine Creamery offers a plethora of 36 different ice cream flavors, ice cream cakes, milkshakes, sundaes and flavors of the month. Here, co-owner Jarrard Ray offers his insight on ice cream entrepreneurship.
Tell our readers about the founding of Sunshine Creamery. How did this business come to be and open up shop in Vestavia Hills?
This area of Vestavia Hills really needed an ice cream shop. Our kids were a big factor in our decision to open Sunshine Creamery, too. Before we opened, we would drive them to neighboring suburbs anytime they had ice cream cravings. They are students at Dolly Ridge Elementary School, and we are active members of the community. There was a definite need for a sit-down, family-friendly ice cream shop in the Rocky Ridge-Dolly Ridge community, which is why we chose this location.
What drew you to this industry?
Casey and I have never actually owned a business before and really have no background in the culinary arts. Casey has a background in pharmacy, and I have a background in retail and wholesale sales. At the end of the day, the community needed an ice cream shop, where families could come and sit down and enjoy some time together. We knew if we did it right, it would be a success.
As an insider in the ice cream business, what’s the “scoop” on the best flavors newcomers should try?
Try all of them. We have 36 flavors of ice cream, several Italian Ice options and we are a Sno Biz location. We have something for everyone.
What is your favorite menu item?
We have many favorites. Depending on your mood, we have several chocolate options, savory caramel choices and kid-friendly flavors such as blue panda, cotton candy and superman. Salty caramel truffle and brookie dough blast are fan favorites for sure.
What is your favorite part of not just being in the ice cream business, but also being a business owner in Vestavia Hills?
We really enjoy the interaction with our customers. We have a loyal customer base and are active members of the community. It brings a smile to our faces when we see families come in excitedly and happily spending one-on-one time together. We foster fellowship with every scoop.
Sunshine Creamery is located at 3390 Morgan Drive in Vestavia Hills. It is open Monday-Friday from 1-9 p.m.; Saturday from 1-10 p.m.; and Sunday from 1-8 p.m. To learn more information or check out the newest flavors, visit in-person or call 205-601-0230.
