Most people who return from Italy bring back a few souvenirs and a lot of memories. Fortunately for Wetumpka, Cedric Seamon brought back more than that. He brought back a passion for a sweet treat and the determination to build it into a business.
Seamon calls himself a “Gelato Junkie,” and says he acquired the addiction while visiting his sister, Syreeta, in Aviano, Italy. “There were these stands everywhere, and people were enjoying themselves. I wanted to make people smile like that back home.” Seamon returned to Wetumpka, purchased the equipment, imported the mixes and opened his own gelato shop for all of us to enjoy.
Venice Gelato, located at 5675 US Hwy 231, has been creating smiles ever since it opened in May, 2009. Seamon sells gelato, gelato cakes and provides a full line of catering from his store. He credits much of his early success to the open welcome the people of Wetumpka have given his gelato. “Most people learn about my store by word of mouth. Once they’re here and taste the gelato, they’re hooked.”
And Seamon is giving people more chances than ever to get hooked. He shows up at local and regional events with his gelato cart and his product is carried in an ever-expanding number of area restaurants. Recently, he added a kiosk at Maxwell Air Force Base, where the many members of the military who have been stationed in Italy are renewing their love for the Venetian treat.
Gelato, often called Italian ice cream, is a healthier option than American ice cream, with 4-8% less butter fat in the dairy-based flavors and the water-based fruit flavors are lower still. It’s lower in carbohydrates than regular ice cream and is gluten-free. This healthier dessert alternative averages 70 calories per serving less than most ice creams.
The rich, densely flavored frozen dessert is made locally at the store, where Seamon recruits young, eager helpers to man the gelato cart and store counter. “I want to show the young men and women here that enthusiasm and hard work can bring success even in this business climate.”
Gelato is scooped to order and is sold in single servings, pints or quarts (and flavors can be mixed). Flavors range from Bourbon Vanilla and Hazelnut Chocolate to Pink Grapefruit and Peach. Gelato cakes are baked to order and come in sizes from 8 inch round cakes to ¼ sheet cakes. Contact Seamon to discuss catering for your next event.
If you aren’t hooked already, or especially if you are, stop by Venice Gelato Monday through Thursday between 11a and 7p. The store is open 11a-8p Friday and Saturday and Sundays 1p to 6p. Become a fan of Venice Gelato on Facebook and visit the website, www.venicegelato.org, too.
Photo caption: Cedric Seamon serves gelato in his store decorated with murals designed and painted by J’Bo, a local artist and Seamon’s cousin.
Written by: Jeanne Dulaney, Ignite!, LLC
