Today we’d like to introduce you to Lori Peacock.
Hi Lori, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Our story began in the summer of 1985 when my soon-to-be fiancé traveled with me from our home in Oshkosh, Wisconsin to Alma, Georgia. My husband was born and raised in Alma, and we traveled south so that I could be introduced to my future in-laws. After a brief stay in the Peacock home, we traveled to Jekyll Island to spend time at the beach. And that, my friends, was the FIRST time I saw the Atlantic Ocean! What an amazing experience! I will never forget it!
I fell in love with the Golden Isles on that trip, and over the next 35 + years we vacationed as a couple and then as a family on Jekyll Island and in the Golden Isles many times. I am thrilled to share that I am still in love with the area and even more in love with the man who brought me here! This area of the Georgia coast is so special to us, so when the pandemic made us reexamine everything in our life, we chose to move from Green Bay, Wisconsin to Brunswick, Georgia in July of 2020.
Asking myself, “Now What?” I knew there was only one answer for my enterprising spirit, start a business! In September of 2022, Golden Isles Gourmet Popcorn popped on the scene! At an age when some women choose retirement, I am pursuing my passion to grow a woman-owned business in the area we call HOME! Founding my business on my favorite snack is truly a “golden” opportunity.
Two years ago, in addition to a vast variety of gourmet popcorn flavors, we added gourmet pretzels and pecans to our snack menu! Our Butter Toffee Pretzels, Caramel Glazed + Sea Salt Pecans and Belle of Georgia Pecans (with a hint of orange) have quickly become customer favorites. Golden Isles Gourmet Popcorn is a premium specialty snacking experience designed to arouse in our customers the sights, sounds and tastes of the Golden Isles and southeast Georgia. Handcrafted Southern Snacks with Coastal Charm!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—but that’s part of building something meaningful. Like many small businesses, we’ve had to navigate rising ingredient costs, packaging challenges, and the realities of producing food in South Georgia’s heat and humidity. That alone requires constant testing and refinement to make sure every product holds up and still delivers on quality.
Another challenge has been growing from a direct-to-consumer model into wholesale and partnerships. Each step forward—whether it’s collaborating with retailers, wedding and event planners, or exploring opportunities like concessions—comes with new decisions around pricing, margins, and operations. You have to learn quickly and be willing to adjust.
There have also been moments where things didn’t go as planned—events with lower-than-expected turnout or inventory that didn’t move the way we anticipated. Those experiences taught us how to better forecast, communicate with partners, and stay flexible. Through it all, the focus has stayed the same: creating a high-quality product and building strong relationships in our community. Every challenge has helped us refine the business, and we’re stronger because of it.
We’ve been impressed with GOLDEN ISLES GOURMET POPCORN, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Golden Isles Gourmet Popcorn is a handcrafted snack company rooted in the coastal charm of Southeast Georgia. We create gourmet popcorn, pretzels, pecans, and specialty snack mixes designed to feel both elevated and approachable—whether you’re enjoying them at home, gifting them, or serving them at an event.
What sets us apart is our focus on flavor innovation and product integrity. Because we operate in a warm, humid coastal climate, we’ve developed techniques and recipes that allow our products to maintain their quality without relying on traditional chocolate coatings that don’t hold up well in the South. Every product is intentionally crafted to be both flavorful and durable, which makes it ideal for retail, events, and gifting.
We’re also known for creating a strong sense of place through our brand. Many of our flavors and product concepts are inspired by the Golden Isles—capturing the colors, energy, and personality of our coastal community. It’s not just a snack; it’s an experience that reflects where we’re from.
Beyond our core products, we specialize in curated snack experiences for businesses, weddings, and special events. From custom-labeled bags featuring company logos to full snack buffets, we offer a unique alternative to traditional catering—something that feels memorable, polished, and a little unexpected.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of how we’ve been able to combine Southern hospitality with a premium presentation. From our packaging to our partnerships, everything is designed to create a positive first impression and a lasting one.
What I want readers to know is this: we’re not just selling snacks—we’re helping people celebrate, connect, and create moments.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that you can’t build a business in isolation. The Lucas Center and the UGA Small Business Development Center have both played an important role in helping me think more strategically and grow with intention.
I’ve also gained a tremendous amount from networking and being part of local business organizations—those real conversations with other entrepreneurs and business owners are invaluable.
Beyond that, I regularly tap into podcasts and business resources focused on entrepreneurship and branding—anything that offers practical, real-world insight I can apply right away. I’m always learning, and that’s been a key part of doing my best both in business and in life.
Pricing:
- Gourmet Popcorn starting at $7.00
- Gourmet Pretzels starting at $8.00
- Gourmet Pecans starting at $10.00
- Snack Mixes & Speciality Items starting at $6.00
- Snack Buffets starting at $8.00/person
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.goldenislesgourmetpopcorn.com
- Instagram: gigipopcornlady
- Facebook: gigipopcornlady
