By Brian Howard

REXBURG — Located in the heart of Rexburg, Karie Anne’s Frozen Desserts has grown from a modest local gelati shop into a franchising phenomenon that’s capturing the hearts and taste buds of dessert lovers in Idaho and Utah. Jessica Mortensen, the owner of Karie Anne’s Frozen Desserts, reflects on the journey that led to the brand’s success.

“Initially, I never had this idea of being a frozen desserts mogul. It just wasn’t anything that had ever crossed my thought process,” Mortensen recalls. “Looking back on what Karie Anne’s started as and what it’s turned into, it’s kind of surreal.”

The story of Karie Anne’s began in 2014 when Mortensen and her family purchased the business. Originally founded by a young entrepreneur from BYU-Idaho who had a vision and a concept, the shop was named after his wife. Mortensen and her family were not only drawn to the great vision but also to the exceptional product.

“We loved the product, and that’s what motivated us to want to purchase,” Mortensen explains. “I honestly thought this would be so fun. It felt like a hobby at first, but it has now evolved to where we’re franchising, and we have people all over the country interested in buying franchises.”

Karie Anne’s has built a devoted following, with customers like TJ and Baylie Simon, who are regulars at the shop. TJ Simon shares, “We come here about every other week. They have awesome flavors that are so good.” Baylie likes the uniqueness of the Italian ice and custard.

The experience offered by Karie Anne’s extends beyond the delectable treats. Mortensen emphasizes the consistency of the experience they provide to their customers. “People come for the treat, and then they come back for the experience. We provide a consistent experience every time.”

Mortensen attributes a good portion of that consistent experience to her employees, which she says are the best in town. “I feel very fortunate to have the most amazing staff. A lot of the feedback that I get from employees is that they want to come back year after year.”

Braxton Ostermiller, the Rexburg Manager, has been working at Karie Anne’s for five years. “For a work environment, it’s Stellar,” he explains. “I love coming to work every day. I love all my amazing co-workers and the flexibility in scheduling. I’m currently at BYU-Idaho just, and being able to have a flexible schedule is super good for me.”

Max Howard, an employee of Karie Anne’s in Rexburg, speaks highly of the working environment. “It’s a really fun environment with my friends. All my co-workers are super friendly,” Howard expresses. “It’s super chill. It’s a good environment to work in.”

The decision to franchise Karie Anne’s was not initially on Mortensen’s radar. However, the overwhelming interest from the public, coupled with the desire to spread the brand’s culture and experience, changed her mind. “Seeing the interest from people who keep reaching out, some five years plus, wanting to own a Karie Anne’s franchise, made me realize that we have something that people are valuing,” Mortensen explains.

Karie Anne’s has already expanded its presence with locations in Rexburg, Pocatello, Boise, and in Utah in Herriman, and Provo. Mortensen says there will be more locations added next summer. Mortensen reflects on the growth strategy, stating, “If it was all about the money, all you would do is open corporate locations. But to grow a brand is something else. You’re meeting new people, putting yourself out there in new territories, and saying, ‘Come see who we are; come see what we’re all about.'”

Mortensen’s dedication to providing high-quality desserts and a delightful experience for customers has been the driving force behind Karie Anne’s Frozen Desserts’ success. As the brand continues to expand its reach, it’s clear that their sweet treats and vibrant culture will continue to capture the hearts and taste buds of a growing number of loyal customers.