Some entrepreneurial journeys start with a business plan. Candice Nicloux’s started with a simple question at Big Bear with a bold, “I can make you hot sauce.” What began as small-batch experiments in mason jars has grown into That Saucy Lady, a proudly Indigenous-owned hot sauce venture fueled by creativity, culinary skill, and a love for turning flavour into an experience.
Candice’s story is rooted in grit, humour, and the kind of community support that sparks real momentum. From building her confidence through Yukonstruct’s Food & Beverage Business Bootcamp to navigating the steps toward commercial production, she’s showing what determination looks like, with plenty of spice along the way.
We’re excited to share her journey, her voice, and the fire behind her growing business!
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what inspired your entrepreneurial journey?
My name is Candice Nicloux, I am an indigenous woman from the Yukon. It all started when I was asked by a customer at Big Bear “what happened to that guy that used to make hot sauce?” To which I responded “I can make you hot sauce.”
I started with very small batches and canning in mason jars in my kitchen selling to friends and family. My coworker had started sweating and perhaps shed a couple tears, and that’s how I got my little saying of the “why” I make hot sauce “To make grown men cry” but the truth is just because I love hot sauce and as a chef by trade I love creating delicious food. That was 2019.
How did the Yukonstruct Entrepreneurship Bootcamp help you take your idea further or gain confidence?
I went to däna Näye Ventures to seek guidance, to which Rosalie had told me about the Food & Beverage Business Bootcamp. I applied and talked with Erin, Yukonstruct’s Director of Entrepreneurial Programming, who was very excited and made me feel like it was a killer idea to start a hot sauce & catering business .
What’s one challenge you’ve faced so far, and how are you tackling it?
Environmental Health & Safety has a lot of hoops to jump through to get my hot sauce able to be sold commercially, I have a temporary food permit for selling at markets and pop-ups, and I am also selling online through my Facebook and Instagram page.
What’s next for your idea or project?
Well, Robyn Gillespie and I just finished designing my official labels for the hot sauce bottles, so now I need to get them approved by Environmental Health & Safety before I can place an order and make some mass production to get on store shelves.
Outside of your business, what’s your go-to activity to recharge or have fun?
Reading books, I have beaten my goal to read 20 books this year, and I’m at 24!
Which fictional character, movie, or celebrity best represents your entrepreneurial vibe?
Amy Poelhler! Because she’s funny and has fun with being a girl boss!
If you had to pitch your business in one sentence for a TikTok or Reel, what would the hook be?
At That Saucy Lady, I make hot sauces that can make a man cry with the perfect balance of flavour and heat.