Amidst the world of health care, Denise Flynn’s (DDH’95) dedication and passion as a dental hygienist paved a reliable career path. Nevertheless, life had its own delightful surprises in the making. The unassuming decision made by Denise and Derek Flynn to acquire a neglected apple orchard in Corberrie, Nova Scotia, would soon lead them on an unexpected journey into entrepreneurship, culminating in the successful establishment of their very own cidery company.

Interview with Denise Flynn of Corberrie Cider

Did you always aspire to be an entrepreneur?
I never thought I’d be an entrepreneur. I was always more interested in in the health field than business, but in 2002 we bought land that just happened to have a 5-acre apple orchard on it. After a crash course in farming, we decided to make a value-added product from our farm-grown apples. In 2019 we opened Corberrie Cidery Company.

How do you balance your career as a dental hygienist and owning/operating a cidery?
I keep my business at a manageable size. I have no employees; it’s just my husband and me (sometimes we have friends who come to help out). I have an amazing employer who is very flexible with the days and hours that I work as a dental hygienist, making running my business possible. I work for another Dal grad, Dr. Jillian Moore (DDS’06). In fact, there are five Dal alums working under one roof!

How did your time at Dal prepare you for the unique role of cidermaker?
My dental hygiene education helped me in many ways. Dental hygienists are detailed orientated, and we are very aware of the importance of sanitizing, sterilizing, and disinfecting instrument and surfaces.

In cidermaking we must also follow guidelines to ensure our products are safe and of excellent quality. A chemistry and biology background were also very helpful when learning about fermentation, PH, yeasts, and other ingredients needed to produce cider.

What is your favourite part of running Corberrie Cidery Company?
My favourite part of owning a cidery is the marketing. I love creating social media advertisements and videos for my business. I also enjoy chatting with my customers about cider.

What advice would you give other alumni looking to start their own business?
When you own a business it’s a seven days a week job. Being a business owner is rewarding, difficult, flexible, and satisfying. Ask for hep from people with experience and be a lifelong learner.

For women looking to start their own business my advice would be to surround yourself with people who will be there for you when things are going well, but also when things get really hard; nobody can do everything alone. Sometimes as women, we are conditioned to be the glue that holds everything together. Remember to do things for your own happiness and joy. You can’t run a successful business if you burn yourself out.

Given your experience, what guidance or insight would you give to new Dal grads?
It’s great to have plans and set goals, but always be prepared to adjust to changes that inevitably will happen.

With such a busy schedule, what do you do to relax?
I love reading, walking Reese my chocolate lab, and cooking/baking.

You can visit Corberrie Cider online

Instagram: @corberrieciderco
Facebook: @corberrieciderco

Corberrie Cidery Company is offering Dal Alumni Benefits Members one free apple cider flight with any in-store purchase.