"I got into this business because I got hooked on the magic of watching salt appear out of nowhere in brine. 3 years on, watching the first crystals start to form out of a new batch of seawater remains as exciting and mysterious as ever!" Brady Ryan is a farm boy through and through. Growing up on his family farm on the San Juan Islands of the Washington Coast, farm life is in his blood. After moving to the main land to study mathematics at the University of Washington in Seattle, Brady worked with Ballard Bee Company, instilling in him the desire to craft his own artisan goods back on his home island.

What Inspired You To Start San Juan Island Sea Salt?

My intense love of the ocean, and working on farms.

Tell us about your products.

Solar evaporated sea salt, raw multi-floral honey and products that are based on those items.

What Does Being A Small-Batch “Artisan” Mean To You?

It means a lot of time by myself, listening to podcasts.

What is your favorite small-batch treat?

Bonache hot sauce.

What Drew You To Food?

Farming.

Where Does Your Food Inspiration Come From?

My customers.

What Products Are You Working On Now?

New varieties of caramels, smoked honey, and flake salt.

Do You Have a Favorite Product?

Our popcorn blend of sea salt and organic herbs. I eat it by itself all the time.

Latest Ingredient Obsession?

Smoked Peppercorns (we smoke them ourselves.)

What Did You Have For Dinner Last Night?

Curried vegetables with brown rice and sriracha.

What Person, Living Or Dead, Would You Most Like To Have Try Your Product?

Chris Pratt.

What’s The Best Piece Of Advice You’ve Gotten In Building Your Business? What Advice Would You Give Other artisans?

Best advice I've gotten: Don't go cheap on packaging. Advice I'd give: Your business should reflect your personality and passions, nobody else's. And start using accounting software right away.

What Other Local Food Artisans or Chefs Do You Admire?

Ballard Bee Company, Noble Syrup, Jacobsen Salt, Bee Local.

If You Had To Choose Your Last Meal, What Would It Be?

Spaghetti with garlic bread.

Favorite Restaurant or Food Experience?

All you can eat sushi in Vancouver BC

What Do You Enjoy Doing Outside of the Kitchen?

Playing Magic the Gathering.

What’s Your Favorite Kitchen Soundtrack?

Beyonce

What is your favorite recipe to make with the product featured in our basket?

Avocado Chimichurri Bruschetta.