A family-run establishment in Colorado has aimed to redefine the way locals approach healthy eating.

Taste of Life, a natural market and prepared meals kitchen, has become a cornerstone in the Tri-Lakes region for those seeking organic, gluten-free and wholesome food options. Founded in 1997 by Donna Poelstra, Taste of Life began as a modest home-based co-op. Poelstra’s vision was simple. She aimed to provide her family with nutritious meals on a budget.

What started with a business selling chicken from her garage has blossomed into a full-scale commercial kitchen and retail store, now located at 18965 Base Camp Road, Unite 4A in Monument. The journey from the garage operation to a highly regarded community market is largely due to the family’s dedication and the community’s support, she said.

“I never intended to start a business,” Poelstra said. “I found a place to purchase quality chicken and purchased it in bulk to save money. When friends started asking me to get chicken for them, it was a way to supplement the family budget.”

Poelstra’s business grew from selling pre-ordered chicken and bread to sourcing beef, buffalo and organic produce at customer request. After moving into a small commercial kitchen in downtown Monument, she began offering prepared meals like buffalo lasagna, chicken pot pie, and enchiladas; family recipes of which customers loved for their convenience. As demand grew, Taste of Life expanded its selection, making homemade, high-quality meals accessible to busy families.

Taste of Life reached its first major milestone in 2006 when Poelstra moved the co-op from her garage to a small house on 2nd Street in downtown Monument, serving a growing customer base of 1,500. A year later, the business expanded into a 3,500-square-foot commercial kitchen, increasing meal production and launching a full-scale retail operation.

The Poelstra family remains at the helm of daily operations. Donna Poelstra, alongside her husband Ron and their three children Joseph, Adam, and Annie ensure the store maintains its commitment to quality and family values. Their hands-on approach guarantees every product meets their high standards.

“We love to help families enjoy a meal around the dinner table,” Poelstra said. “In this unstable world, full of busyness and fast food, we think it’s important to connect as a family around the table. That was always a priority to the Poelstra family.

“There is a prayer on every one of our meals to remind people to be grateful for the goodness and blessings we all have, and we shouldn’t take them for granted.”

The most recent change to the business was the expansion and introduction to a new retail store space. After Taste of Life began producing meals in a small commercial kitchen, a customer saw potential in the business and offered to help it expand. With their support, Poelstra transformed a warehouse into a commercial kitchen and opened a retail location in the Walmart complex, increasing visibility and attracting new customers.

However, after about a year, the investors backed out, leaving the business with an unsustainable lease. Unable to cover the cost, Poelstra moved the store into the back of the kitchen in 2011. While it took time for customers to find the “secret back door store,” the business has seen substantial growth over the past 14 years.

On March 1, Taste of Life will have a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate its Grand Reopening to show off the new store front. Although many customers fondly recall the “secret back door store,” Taste of Life had outgrown the space. When a neighboring business vacated its suite, Poelstra saw an opportunity to expand. The team remodeled the office area into a significantly larger storefront, replacing the former storage space which could accommodate only five customers at a time.

While the previous setup lacked windows, it was filled with the inviting aromas of the kitchen. The new location offers more refrigeration and storage, a bright, sunlit storefront, and ample space to better serve a growing customer base.

“Our retail store crew is extremely welcoming and keeps the shopping experience pleasant,” Poelstra said. “You don’t just order online from an unknown person. You can see the people who make Taste of Life what it is and put a face to the products you purchase.”

Taste of Life’s extensive menu caters to a variety of dietary needs and preferences. The store offers an array of prepared meals, natural meats, baked goods, and dry goods. A significant highlight is their dedicated gluten-free bakery, which produces cookies, pies, scones, and other delectable treats. For those with a sweet tooth, their selection of jams, honey, snacks and desserts promises to satisfy. Additionally, their salsas and tamales have garnered praise for their authentic flavors.

Understanding the challenges of maintaining a healthy diet amidst a busy schedule, Taste of Life emphasizes convenience without compromising on nutrition. Their prepared meals are crafted with organic ingredients, ensuring that families can enjoy wholesome dinners even on the most hectic days.

“Our motto is, ‘We cook the way you would if you had the time,’” Polestra said. “It’s homemade goodness without additives and preservatives.

“I attribute our customer loyalty to our quality meals and bakery items, plus the friendly shopping experience. Customers can email me at any time, and I will answer them. Our retail store is extremely welcoming and, as I said before, we don’t skimp on our ingredients and keep them as natural and organic as possible. Trust is a big deal.”

Located in such a “set back” location, Poelstra has relied on word-of-mouth heavily for the growth and success of Taste of Life, coupled with some other marketing efforts. Without relying on a formal marketing strategy, she has built strong customer relationships through direct communication.

For years, she has sent a weekly email newsletter, which customers frequently share with family and friends. She personally responds to every email inquiry, fostering a sense of trust and loyalty. Today, her customer list has grown to nearly 3,800 subscribers with a 45-percent open rate, with some patrons remaining loyal for the entire 27 years of Taste of Life’s operation.

Engagement with the community extends to social media platforms as well. The store’s Instagram page showcases a variety of products, seasonal specials, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into daily operations. This online presence fosters a sense of connection and keeps customers informed about new offerings.