For Rayna Dye, her journey from professional chef to entrepreneur began with a deeply personal mission—helping her husband manage his renal failure through flavorful, low-sodium cuisine. Born with the aptly-suited last name Cook (hence her company name), Rayna’s culinary training gave her the expertise to understand that “flavor doesn’t come from salt,” as she explains. “Salt is an enhancer, but it is not a spice.”
This insight led to experimentation with spice blends containing minimal sodium—just 140 milligrams or less per serving according to American Heart Association guidelines for low-sodium products. Her creations were an immediate hit with family and friends, particularly her husband, who could finally enjoy flavorful meals despite dietary restrictions.
Partnering with Small Business Support: Turning Passion Into a Scalable Business
The turning point from homemade gifts to viable business came when a representative from Jewish Family Services (JFS), a Small Business Support from Ann Arbor SPARK partner organization, discovered Rayna’s social media profile and reached out with an offer of entrepreneurial support. “Everything has been up ever since then,” Rayna shares. “It has just been really good to receive the blessings.”
Through JFS’ guidance, Rayna accessed critical small business resources while navigating the complex process of product development, commercial kitchen certification, and labeling requirements. When Rayna left her job in December 2023, she embraced the opportunity to focus more energy on her business. “I have my own business. I can be successful if I put the energy and time into it,” she realized.
The partnership opened doors to additional entrepreneurial programs through Small Business Support including the Washtenaw Community College Entrepreneurship Center cohort. Rayna also joined the JPG Founders cohort through the Battle Creek Food Reimagined program, expanding her network of support. She credits these resources with dramatically boosting her confidence and business acumen.
Growing the Brand: From Farmers’ Markets to Retail Shelves
Currently, Rayna is working diligently to expand Cook’s Condiments into retail stores while building her brand through regional farmers’ markets. She’s pursuing connections with buyers, including an upcoming meeting with a Meijer Independence Market representative. As Cook’s Condiments continues to develop, Rayna has become an ambassador for Small Business Support, actively connecting other entrepreneurs with the resources that transformed her own journey—showing how personal passion can address genuine needs in the community.
About Small Business Support
Small Business Support from Ann Arbor SPARK provides no-cost coaching, mentorship, workshops, and resources to help entrepreneurs in Livingston, Monroe, and Washtenaw Counties start and grow their businesses. Through a collaborative network of Business Support Partners, we offer expert guidance, technical assistance, and tools designed to strengthen local entrepreneurship, fuel innovation, and build long-term business success.
