Looking back: A conversation with Jordan Plummer: owner of SHOOK Smoothies in Grand Marais
Jul 10, 2023 11:34AM ● By Content EditorEditor's note: We're looking back to last year in celebration of the one-year-anniversary of Shook Smoothies. The information in this interview was valid as of August, 2022. For the most up-to-date information on Shook Smoothies, visit the website or social media channels (which are linked below).
Jordan Plummer had no idea she would be running her own smoothie business when she house sat for her sister and brother-in-law in May of 2021 in Grand Marais.
But after those two weeks, Plummer knew she had found a new home.
“I was 30 years old, had traveled a lot, and ultimately fell in love with the area”.
Growing up in Texas and Oregon, she graduated at 17, left home early, and traveled the world. She ended up in Miami, Florida, working as a yacht stewardess.
“We would make all these fresh, delicious smoothies, shakes, and smoothie bowls that were high quality and healthy. I learned a lot about different nutrients and supplements that are beneficial for our health. I missed those things when I left.”
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Within the past year since she made Grand Marais her home, Plummer has thought of creating smoothies. Lucky for her, her brother-in-law, Juan Carregal dos Santos, is from Argentina and owned three restaurants and food trucks.
“Sushi bowls and other fresh plates featuring delicious produce are just some of the things he offered,” said Plummer. Best of all? He was a major help to Plummer in the recipe creation process.
“I did a lot of creating and testing thanks to him, and really owe a lot of being able to get started with this venture to his help and guidance.”
And because of all the testing that went into her menu creation, she only serves things she has tried and knows make a good smoothie.
SHOOK Smoothie menu as of 8.19.2022 - Image provided
It would be hard not to enjoy the combinations Plummer has put together with the help of her brother-in-law. With fun names like Superior Sunrise (her most popular smoothie featuring passion fruit, mango, and banana, and is just as delicious as it sounds), or the Borealis Smoothie Bowl (a true showstopper - very Instagrammable), it’s hard to not want to try them all on the first visit.
Superior Sunrise smoothie. Photo: Laura Durenberger-Grunow
Plummer also offers protein shakes that can be used as meal replacements or after a workout. She personally recommends Birch Babe (which combines the irresistible combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and banana) if you’re looking for something filling.
And speaking of names, Plummer shared that she came up with the name “SHOOK Smoothies” after brainstorming about her business with some friends.
“It was actually the 2nd name I thought of! As soon as I said it I loved it, and like that it’s short, aesthetically fun, and easy to remember. I like the freedom it gives me, “ she said.
“Ultimately I created this business to make nutritious foods easily accessible, affordable, and delicious. With Shook, I can expand in any direction, not just the smoothie space.”
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Plummer has other goals as well when it comes to Shook. Right now, she’s operating out of the Cook County Community Center a few days a week (typically Wednesday - Sunday; times vary), offering curbside service.
“To order, people can text me what they want. I’ll respond with an approximate wait time, and then start making their drinks/bowls. Once they arrive, they can text me again and I’ll bring the order right to their car” (she takes cash and card at that time as well for payment).
While she’s grateful to be able to use the Community Center, future plans include a food truck or brick & mortar.
“Shoutout to anyone who has a potential spot - let me know,” she added with a smile.
Other future goals include incorporating more sustainable practices into her business with things like a reusable jar program and composting.
“How we affect the earth is very important to me, so incorporating sustainability into my business plan is something I definitely want to do”.
Plummer wanted to specifically say a huge word of thanks to the community for their support.
“Everyone has been so kind, patient, and supportive. I sold out my first weekend, and the only marketing I did was word-of-mouth to locals [which was the weekend of the Grand Marais Art Fair of 2022]. It’s been amazing”.
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Plummer plans to keep SHOOK open year round with more seasonal winter drink recipes and potentially some pre-packaged snacks.
While some of the recipes may change depending on the season, everything SHOOK offers is vegan, soy-free, and gluten-free.
“I do use peanut butter in a couple of the recipes, as well as almond milk, but if you have a peanut or tree-nut allergy, let me know when texting your order and I’ll sanitize before making the drinks/bowls”.
Oh, and if you’re placing an order, bring the kids! Plummer even has special drinks for kids like ‘banana bear gone nutzo’.
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Finally, if you want to add in any additional nutrients or supplements like acai, spirulina, cacao, chai tea, bee pollen, and protein powder - just to name a few.
If you have questions, Plummer welcomes any feedback or simple conversation about all things smoothies.
SHOOK Smoothies is open Wednesday - Sunday. Text “order” to (503)951-0168. Specific schedule and time can be found on the SHOOK Smoothie Instagram page, Facebook page, or general website.