Meet Ebony Jones | Pastry Chef & Owner of 8twenty8,llc

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ebony Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ebony, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My decision to embark on entrepreneurship was a consequence of several factors aligning unexpectedly. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic coupled with my relocation for a career opportunity in the cannabis industry accelerated my foray into business ownership. Upon completing my college education, I discerned my considerable expertise in baking. Capitalizing on this proficiency served as the cornerstone of my entrepreneurial journey, enabling me to initiate a business venture by leveraging an existing skillset.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
“8twenty8 developed out of pure necessity . One day I just applied to 50+ cannabis jobs on indeed, I found emails and sent my resume. One company reached out, I flew to Arizona for the interview and 3 month’s later I relocated from Marietta, Georgia to work with Sublime brands as the head of their infused Candies and Chocolates department. The pandemic hit as soon as I got here , the company had to shut down and relocate so I got a job a dispensary and started doing pop ups selling non infused desserts at cannabis and non cannabis events to make up for income selling things like , pies cakes by the slice, cheesecake ect and the rest is history. My grandmothers sweet potato pie recipe took off and became a best seller, and I would eventually expand into vegan and gluten free options as well.” We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. “I’m most proud of the fact that I relocated from another state not knowing anyone, to create a name for myself as a business owner. What sets us apart from other companies is the fact that we sell all kinds of desserts ranging from regular to vegan and gluten free as well as herbal teas for menstrual wellness. As an educator we can also teach you the basics of infusing your own products at home. Another service that we offer at 8twenty8 is ordained ministry services to couples in certain states.”

How did you get to where you are today business-wise. “I have gotten to where I am business wise through faith and continuous education and surrounding myself with other like minded individuals. “
Was it easy? “Was it easy ?!!)$ absolutely not , I haven’t moments of defeat maybe 2-3 times a week, that I just combat it positive affirmations, business podcasts, prayer and more.”

If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way.” I’ve overcome the challenges by learning the lesson that I can’t do it by myself and community is a must have. I can honestly say being in Tulsa during an entrepreneur melting pot era has helped me find great Accellorator programs the enhance my knowledge as a business owner. The biggest lessons Ive leaned is you can’t do everything in your own, learn to ask for help and learn EVERYTHING from financial literacy all the way to marketing.”
What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story? “ I want the world to know that 8twenty8 is a faith based company determined to make the world a better places with our plethora of services. Everything that we offer is purposeful and we look forward to healing the world one day at a time.”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Arrival and Local Eateries Morning: Arrive in Tulsa
Lunch: Lerouxs Kitchen at Mother Road Market
Afternoon: Greenwood Cultural Center & Greenwood Rising
Dinner: Gambill’s Italian Restaurant
Day 2: Exploring Downtown & Entertainment
Morning: Visit Center of the Universe
Lunch: Kazama Asian Cuisine
Afternoon: Tulsa Aquarium
Evening: Enjoy live music at Gypsy Coffee House (cannabis-friendly) or Mi Tea Lounge for entertainment
Day 3: Local Events and Markets
Morning: Explore the Black Wall Street Farmers Market
Lunch: Kings Way Wings
Afternoon: Follow The Underground Collective for local events
Evening: Attend a BOK event or concert
Day 4: Sports and Cultural Experiences
Morning: Tour the Tulsa Performing Arts Center
Lunch: Liquid Lounge for coffee or tea
Afternoon: Attend a Tulsa Drillers Game
Evening: Ice skating
Day 5: Nature and Parks
Morning: Chickasaw National Recreational Park
Lunch: Picnic at Veterans Park
Afternoon: Explore Gathering Place
Evening: Riverside stroll
Day 6: More Local Delights and Relaxation
Morning: Breakfast at a local favorite or enjoy tea at Mi Tea Lounge
Midday: Visit local music venues or find performances by Branjae, Madame Zeroni, Emani, Tea Rush, etc.
Afternoon: Leisure time or follow local nature trails
Evening: Dinner at a local spot or try out new cuisine
Day 7: Departure Day
Morning: Final morning walk or last-minute visits to favorite spots
Departure: Depart from Tulsa

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Dear Mom Helen Gibbons,

I want to take this moment to express my deepest gratitude for your unwavering support and belief in my dreams, especially from as far back as my 10th-grade aspirations of entering the cannabis industry. Your continuous encouragement, even after I made the difficult decision to drop out of college to care for you, has been an incredible source of strength for me.

Your dedication, from ensuring I made it to school on tired days to meticulously ironing my chef coats, represents the epitome of maternal love and sacrifice. Your tireless efforts and unwavering support have shaped my journey profoundly, and I am forever indebted to you.

I also want to acknowledge the late Grandfather’s invaluable role in fostering my ambition. His encouragement to take a leap of faith and pursue an opportunity in the cannabis industry in another state stands as a pivotal moment in my life. His support, even funding my training trip to Arizona before his battle with cancer, has left an indelible mark on my heart.

Every step I take in this industry is a testament to your collective belief in me. I am determined to make both you and Grandfather proud, honoring the support, sacrifices, and love you’ve given me throughout my journey. Thank you for being the rock of support in my life.

Website: Www.8twenty8.llc

Instagram: @blckbudderfly

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebony-jones-1262bb114?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/8twenty8Events?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ebonyjones891?feature=shared

Image Credits
Jamie Beeman Ryan Wheeler Tamiesha Riddle