David and Rachael Puhlman are the dynamic duo behind Gracie’s Sweets & Treats, a beloved ice cream food truck that has become a staple in Salem, Oregon and the surrounding area. This family-owned business, named after their youngest daughter Gracie, brings joy to the community with delicious treats and a warm, family-oriented spirit.
The name Gracie’s Sweets & Treats has a special significance. When the David and Rachael decided to start their business, their youngest daughter, Gracie, was just six months old. They chose to name their first truck after her, with plans to name future trucks after their other children. It’s a unique and heartwarming way to involve their family in the business and create a legacy for their children.
Gracie’s Sweets & Treats offers a variety of delectable treats that cater to all kinds of events. From school functions and weddings to fundraisers and pop-up events, they bring a sweet touch to any occasion. Their menu features hand-scooped ice cream, bubble waffles, mini pancakes, ice cream nachos, ice cream tacos, banana splits, root beer floats, and hot chocolate floats. David highlights their unique offerings, “We don’t do the novelties; we do hard ice creams, so local stuff. And then the bubble waffles—there’s not a mobile bubble waffle truck out there, at least in our area.”
The Puhlmans didn’t always work in the food industry. David had a background in selling truck parts, while Rachael worked in accounting. The idea of starting an ice cream food truck came to them at their own wedding, where they had a food truck catering the event. This experience sparked their interest, and when David needed to return to the workforce after staying home to raise their kids, they decided to take the plunge. “It was a good idea because I can still stay home during the day and take care of the kids, then go out with the truck on weekends,” David explains.
Community involvement is fundamental for Gracie’s Sweets & Treats. The David and Rachael actively participate in local events like Keizer Fest, parades, and giving baskets. One memorable initiative was using their truck to deliver gift baskets during their first year in business. David recalls, “I filled up the whole back of the truck with stuff to deliver. It was way more than anyone else could have fit in their car.”
Gracie’s Sweets & Treats stands out for its commitment to local quality and unique offerings. Unlike many competitors who offer pre-scooped ice cream, they provide hand-scooped, local hard ice cream. Their bubble waffles are also a distinctive feature, not commonly found in mobile food trucks in the area. David describes bubble waffles as “similar to a regular waffle texture-wise, but a little bit sweeter, and instead of dipping in, they bubble out.”
Being an ice cream vendor allows Gracie’s Sweets & Treats to collaborate with various local businesses without direct competition. They’ve partnered with Miller’s Barbecue, using bubble waffles with brisket and other savory toppings. David enjoys these collaborations, as his ice cream offerings complement a wide range of foods, from tacos to barbecue.
The David and Rachael’s dedication to their community goes beyond serving ice cream. They see their truck as a way to support local causes and events. “The truck for us is more about helping the community. Whenever we sell at community events, we try to donate back,” David shares. They have given away free scoops at events like the Concert in the Park and donated proceeds from sales to various causes.
The Puhlman’s desire to give back is a value that has been ingrained in them through their personal and professional experiences. David was a Boy Scout, and Rachael ran a nonprofit in Portland that helped the homeless. They plan to continue using their business to support the community while also enjoying family time and travel. David dreams of visiting the Maldives and plans trips with their kids, such as a recent visit to Disney World.
As a mobile food truck, Gracie’s Sweets & Treats can be found at various events and locations around Salem. They are entirely mobile, catering to events, pop-ups, and private parties. To book them or find out where they’ll be next, you can reach them through their Facebook page, Instagram, email, or by phone.
Gracie’s Sweets & Treats offers seasonal specials like $50 birthday parties during the winter months. This offer includes the truck coming to your house for up to 10 people, with a charge of $5 per additional person. During the busy summer season, they participate in large festivals such as the Northwest Taco Fest and Keizer Fest, as well as community events like the Concert in the Park.
Gracie’s Sweets & Treats is more than just an ice cream food truck. It’s a family-driven business with a mission to bring joy and support to the Salem community. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat at a local event or planning a special occasion, David and Rachael are ready to serve up delicious ice cream and warm smiles.
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Apr. 8th, 2024