James Edwards, the founder of James Gourmet, exemplified dedication and community spirit the day before Thanksgiving in Salt Lake City. On November 27, 2024, Edwards made personal pie deliveries across Northern Utah, from Salt Lake County to Weber County, despite the snowy weather that delayed his initial plans.
Aiming to bring a personal touch and save his customers delivery costs, Edwards made approximately 25 deliveries, often traveling long distances between stops.
Since founding his business in 2017, inspired by his time in the military, Edwards has gained popularity for his sweet potato pies, and over time expanded his menu to include buttermilk pie and banana pudding pie. His pies, initially sold at local farmers’ markets, now reach customers nationwide.
Despite reinvesting much of his earnings into the business, Edwards values the relationships and connections he’s built with his customers, particularly during Thanksgiving, when personal interactions are at the heart of his work.
That’s what makes it worth it to me, Edwards said, reflecting on the impact of his in-person deliveries and the gratitude from customers who feel like they’ve been saved by his pies.