Meet Kelli Bain | Founder & Analytical Chemist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kelli Bain and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kelli, how does your business help the community?

At N7 Kream Lab, we believe that our business has the potential to make a positive impact both locally and globally.
One of our core missions is to bridge the gap between science and everyday applications. As a college chemistry professor, I leverage my expertise to create an engaging and educational experience for our customers. We regularly host workshops and demonstrations, particularly for young students, where we explain the science behind ice cream making using liquid nitrogen. These events inspire interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, encouraging the next generation to explore careers in these critical areas. We are deeply committed to our local community. We partner with local schools to provide educational programs and collaborate on science fairs and other events. By being actively involved in the community, we create opportunities for learning and engagement that go beyond our ice cream shop.

N7 Kream Lab prioritizes sourcing ingredients from local suppliers whenever possible. This not only ensures the freshest ingredients for our ice cream but also supports local farmers and businesses, contributing to the economic well-being of our community. By experimenting with unique and globally inspired flavors, we introduce our customers to new tastes and cultural experiences. This not only enriches their culinary journey but also fosters a sense of global connection and appreciation for diverse traditions. Our rapid freezing process with liquid nitrogen allows us to use fewer preservatives, offering a cleaner and healthier product. We provide various options, including non-dairy/vegan and keto-friendly bases, catering to a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. This commitment to quality and health helps our customers make better choices for themselves and their families.

N7 Kream Lab is committed to making a positive impact on the community and the world. Through education, community engagement, support for the local economy, and healthier product offerings, we strive to be a business that not only delights the senses but also enriches lives. Our goal is to inspire, educate, and contribute to a better future, one scoop of ice cream at a time.

What should our readers know about your business?
At N7 Kream Lab, I take pride in transforming the traditional ice cream experience through the innovative use of liquid nitrogen. Our unique approach harnesses the power of science to create the creamiest, most delicious ice cream with an unparalleled texture. What truly sets us apart is the interactive and educational experience we offer our customers. Watching their ice cream flash-frozen before their eyes in a cloud of nitrogen is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual spectacle that delights and engages people of all ages.

I am most proud of our commitment to science education and community engagement. By hosting workshops, school visits, and educational demonstrations, we inspire curiosity and a love for science in both children and adults. This aspect of our business is incredibly rewarding, as I see firsthand the impact of combining fun with learning.

The journey to where I am today has been filled with challenges and triumphs. Starting a business in the competitive food industry was no easy feat. There were numerous hurdles, from perfecting our nitrogen ice cream process to building a brand that resonates with our community.

Navigating the financial challenges and obligations of running a business while staying true to my calling and passion has been a significant journey. Balancing the books and ensuring we meet our financial commitments often requires us to readjust and reevaluate our priorities. Sometimes, scaling down is necessary to sustain our mission. Moving from a retail storefront to a patio walk-up window model was not how I initially envisioned N7 Kream Lab, but it allowed us to continue serving our community and pursuing our passion. This shift underscored that adaptability is key to the success of any business. By embracing change and remaining flexible, we’ve been able to overcome obstacles and stay true to our vision.

Building strong relationships with our customers and community has also been a key factor in our success. Listening to feedback and constantly striving to exceed expectations has helped us grow and thrive.

Our story is one of passion, innovation, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact through science education, family, and community. I feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to utilize my God-given gifts and talents to make others smile and contribute to the next generation of dreamers and innovators. We want the world to know that N7 Kream Lab is more than just an ice cream shop. It’s a place where science and creativity meet to create magical, memorable experiences.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I had a week to show someone around and introduce them to some of the most fun, interesting, and exciting spots, here’s how the itinerary would look: We’d start with a delicious brunch at **Grits and Eggs**, known for its hearty Southern breakfast dishes and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to kick off our adventure. After brunch, we’d head over to **Auburn Avenue** to immerse ourselves in Atlanta’s rich history by visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, which includes the civil rights leader’s childhood home and the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he preached. The day would finish with a treat from **N7 Kream Lab**, where the magic of nitrogen ice cream and unique flavors would cap off our day perfectly. The next day would begin with a visit to the **Atlanta University Center**, home to several historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) like Spelman College, Morehouse College, and Clark Atlanta University. We’d explore these campuses and learn about their significant contributions to education and civil rights. Following this, we’d delve into the **Center for Civil and Human Rights** to connect the American Civil Rights Movement to today’s Global Human Rights Movements. Dinner would be at **Busy Bee Café**, a local favorite known for classic Southern comfort food since 1947. On day three, we’d spend the morning at **Piedmont Park**, perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic, followed by a visit to the **Atlanta Botanical Garden** to enjoy stunning plant collections. Dinner would be at **Krog Street Market**, where we’d find a variety of food stalls and artisanal vendors. The fourth day would be dedicated to arts and entertainment, starting with the **High Museum of Art** for a diverse collection of classic and contemporary art. We’d stroll through the **BeltLine Eastside Trail** to see public art installations before catching a show at the historic **Fox Theatre**. Day five would be filled with science and fun at the **Fernbank Museum of Natural History** and the **Georgia Aquarium**, capped off with dinner at **The Varsity**, an iconic Atlanta fast-food joint. Day six would begin with shopping at **Ponce City Market**, followed by a visit to the **Atlanta History Center**. We’d enjoy a relaxing dinner at **Mary Mac’s Tea Room**, known for its hospitality and traditional dishes. On the final day, we’d visit the **Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum** to reflect on the life of the 39th President of the United States, followed by a trip to **Sweet Auburn Curb Market** for diverse food vendors and local goods. We’d conclude the trip with another visit to **N7 Kream Lab** for one last scoop of our signature nitrogen ice cream before heading home. Throughout the week, we’d experience the best of Atlanta’s history, culture, nature, and culinary delights, making it an unforgettable journey.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
In my journey of building the N7 Kream Lab brand, I owe a great deal of credit and recognition to several key individuals. First and foremost, my husband deserves immense gratitude for allowing me to live out my gifts and talents while he provides a stable foundation for our family. My children, Kameron, Keziah, Kailen, and Kenzie, have been unwavering in their support and belief in my vision, encouraging me every step of the way. My mother, who instilled in me the importance of faith and a personal relationship with God, has been a guiding light. Additionally, my grandfather, who passed down our family’s rich traditions of cooking and making ice cream, and who taught me the value of using education to serve my family, myself, and the community, has been a profound influence. He showed me the importance of serving the next generation and inspired me to dream bigger.

Website: www.n7kreamlab.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/n7kreamlab/

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kellithekhemistbain

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/n7kreamlab/

Youtube: www.youtube.com/@n7kreamlabatl