In the heart of Frankfort, Ohio, nestled among the charm of small-town life, The Village Scoop & More has become more than just a destination for delicious treats. It’s a place where community, connection, and pride flourish.

Owned and operated by Tara Hayden, a longtime food service professional and former ice cream shop owner from Butler, The Village Scoop was born out of her love for the industry and her desire to bring that joy to a town that reminded her of home. “I chose Frankfort because I came from a similar small town,” Hayden shares. “There’s a real sense of community within a small business.”

Hayden purchased The Village Scoop at the beginning of last year, and since then, she’s worn every hat imaginable. Her day begins around 8:30 a.m. with prep work, stocking, placing orders, and handling computer tasks. By 11 a.m., the doors open, and the hustle doesn’t stop until closing time.

Despite the challenges of launching a business in a new town—especially finding trustworthy employees and building relationships. Hayden has found deep fulfillment in her work. “It means a sense of pride and joy in the work that I do,” she says. “I really enjoy seeing our regular customers.”

One of the most rewarding aspects of her journey is working with teens. Hayden lights up when talking about mentoring young employees, helping them grow both professionally and personally. It’s a reflection of the broader impact small businesses have on their communities. “Small businesses are important because there's a sense of belonging,” she explains.

Balancing work and family life, she’s a mother of four and celebrating 20 years of marriage next year is no small feat. But Hayden credits her passion for the job, and a healthy dose of caffeine, for keeping her energized. “It’s a job I love, so I never dread coming to work.”

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Hayden offers one simple but powerful piece of advice: “Have patience, because a lot will go wrong before things go right.”

Whether you’re stopping by for a scoop or staying for the sense of connection, The Village Scoop & More is a testament to the power of small-town spirit and the joy of building something meaningful from the ground up.