What does it take – and, importantly, who does it take – to “handle” a well-regarded, fast-growing franchise if you’re completely new to the business?
Ben and Cristy Garcia of Larchmont answered that question and much more in a recent interview with The Westfair Business Journal. Their 16 Handles Frozen Yogurt and Soft Serve shop in Larchmont (@16handleslarchmont) opens April 26. The new spot, say the couple, aims to be “the top community-driven destination” for frozen yogurt and desserts.
Ben, you were until very recently a disaster relief professional and a volunteer firefighter. How do you transition to being a purveyor of frozen desserts?
Ben: “It’s definitely an unexpected shift – from disaster zones to dessert cones. But both careers are about bringing comfort in times of need. When you’re in the thick of a crisis, you’re focused on helping people feel safe and cared for. Frozen yogurt and ice cream might seem like a world away from that, but honestly, it’s still about delivering joy, creating connection, and lifting spirits, just in a sweeter, simpler way.”
Cristy, you are continuing in your CMO role for a leading global tech business while partnering with Ben in key aspects of the franchise and FROYO business. How will that work, re: division of time, etc?
Cristy: “Yes, I’m continuing in my role as CMO – it’s work I love, and I’m deeply invested in the mission and the team. At the same time, supporting Ben and being involved in building this new venture together has been incredibly energizing. We approach it as partners, with clear communication, trust, and a shared vision.”
What was appealing to you both about a franchise and what sort of diligence did you do to guarantee that Larchmont would be a good location?
Ben: “We were really drawn to the idea of a franchise, because it allowed us to build something of our own with the support and structure of a proven brand. We’re entrepreneurial by nature, but we also wanted to hit the ground running with a product people already love.”
Cristy: “We did a lot of due diligence, looking at foot traffic, family demographics, and local appetite for unique food experiences. But honestly, our biggest clue was just living here. We knew firsthand that Larchmont would show up for something fun, family-friendly, and well-made. This town celebrates local businesses – and we’re excited to be one of them.”
Obviously you have to conform to brand protocols but are there any special details/features you can bring to the new branch to genuinely make it (as you say) a place for the “community to come together?”
Ben: “Think cozy, fun, and actually inviting – more like your cool friend’s living room with better snacks. We’ll have music you actually want to hear, seating that doesn’t feel like punishment, and little touches that reflect the Larchmont community.”
Do all 16 Handles branches carry the same product/flavors? How will Larchmont stand out?
Cristy: “Yes, all 16 Handles locations carry the core menu of flavors and toppings, but there’s room to play, and that’s where we come in. We plan to keep the classics people love, but we’ll also lean into seasonal rotations and limited drops that keep things fresh.”
How easy was it to acquire the franchise? Any special challenges?
Ben: “Well, let’s just say we didn’t exactly sign up for a ‘get rich quick’ plan. Acquiring the franchise itself was straightforward – 16 Handles has a solid system in place that makes it easy to follow the process. But setting up a business in Westchester? That’s a whole other ball game.”
Can you elaborate?
Cristy: “Honestly, the biggest challenge has been waiting for all the logistics to line up. But now that we’re here it’s been totally worth it. We’re ready to create a space that feels like home for the community, and we can’t wait to get started.”
The future: More franchises? Any thoughts or too early to say?
Cristy: “It’s too early to say for sure, but we love the idea of bringing our vision of community and connection to other places. If there’s another place out there that feels like Larchmont – vibrant, welcoming and full of great people – we’ll definitely consider it. But for now, we’re all about making this one location a neighborhood staple.”
