“Making More Happy” – How Genia Reid Turned Kilwins Gainesville into a Local Treasure
Gainesville’s downtown square isn’t just a place to shop and stroll—it’s home to smiles, sweet scents, and a whole lot of happy, thanks to Genia Reid, owner of Kilwins Gainesville. In this episode of North Georgia Business Radio, host Phil Bonelli sits down with Genia to discuss her transition from education to entrepreneurship, the magic of the Kilwins brand, and what it means to build a legacy rooted in joy.
For over 75 years, Kilwins has been known for its super-premium ice cream and irresistible confections. Genia and her husband Jeff brought that tradition to Gainesville just a few years ago—but you’d never know it from the lines out the door and the scent of waffle cones wafting across the square. Phil shares how Kilwins has become a motivational reward in his own family, calling it “the best ice cream in Hall County.”
Genia explains how her background in education (28 years!) and Jeff’s corporate career at Ricoh America prepared them for business ownership. Their decision to franchise with Kilwins came after exploring other options, including Crumbl Cookies, but Kilwins stood out for its proactive support and commitment to community-centered values. Their family—including their son Jaden, now working in the shop—is deeply involved, making this a true family legacy in the making.
Beyond the storefront, Kilwins Gainesville partners with local businesses like Johnny’s Pizza and Storybook Market to host weekly field trips, giving over 100 kids a taste of sweet joy and entrepreneurship each week. Genia’s passion is palpable: “We don’t just make chocolate and ice cream—we make more happy.”
With a second store planned for Braselton and dreams of future expansions, the Reids are just getting started. Corporate gifting, community events, and velvety hot chocolate are just a few of the holiday offerings that make this local shop a destination for all ages.
Whether you’re grabbing a waffle cone, scouting corporate gifts, or looking for a new favorite field trip spot, Kilwins Gainesville is more than a sweet shop—it’s a hub of happiness.
Stop by Kilwins Gainesville on the downtown square to experience the joy yourself—or make someone’s day with a handcrafted gift. And if you’re planning a holiday surprise, don’t miss their seasonal treats and corporate gifting table!
Connect with Genia and the Kilwins Gainesville Team:
https://www.kilwins.com/pages/stores-near-me-gainesville-ga-30566-0236
https://www.facebook.com/kilwinsgainesvillega
https://www.instagram.com/kilwinsgainesvillega
Connect with Phil Bonelli:
https://www.facebook.com/Hopewell-Farms-GA-105614501707618/
https://www.instagram.com/hopewellfarmsga/
https://www.hopewellfarmsga.com/
Connect with Beau Henderson:
https://www.facebook.com/RichLifeAdvisors
https://www.facebook.com/NorthGARadioX
This Segment Is Brought To You By Our Amazing Sponsors
Hopewell Farms GA
Roundtable Advisors
RichLife Advisors
Cadence Bank
Highlights of the Show:
00:30 – 01:59
Phil shares how Kilwins has become a family motivator, praising their “superior” ice cream and community value.
03:04 – 03:55
Genia talks about starting Kilwins during retirement and how Doug Ivester’s Renaissance project helped create their dream location.
05:00 – 06:01
Genia shares Kilwins’ motto, “Make More Happy,” and how it aligns with her joy of bringing smiles to kids’ faces.
07:16 – 09:05
Phil emphasizes pursuing dreams later in life, sharing how excellence in previous careers set Genia and Jeff up for success.
10:46 – 11:44
Genia reveals Kilwins’ sensory strategy—venting sweet smells to lure in passersby and enhancing in-store experiences.
12:04 – 13:23
Genia reflects on working with her son, Jaden, and the joy of sharing this chapter as a family business.
18:36 – 19:07
Genia highlights the unexpected challenges of opening a business, including income needs and complex permitting.
21:09 – 22:32
Corporate gifting ideas from Kilwins, featuring Nutcracker Sweet caramel corn, brittles, and affordable gift baskets.
24:46 – 25:30
The Reids plan a second Kilwins in Braselton, with Genia learning to balance excitement with patience.
31:46 – 33:12
Weekly field trips bring 100+ local kids to Kilwins, creating early connections and future customers.
38:50 – 40:22
A touching story about an employee Genia has mentored since middle school shows her true passion for impact.
