Local Flavor: Reap & Sow Nutrition

In Geneseo, Illinois, you can find nutritious options at Reap & Sow Nutrition, a locally owned nutrition club serving up flavorful energy teas, meal replacement shakes, protein balls and more. With a rotating menu, several tasty options are packed with vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.

Nichole Mills began as an employee but realized it was the perfect opportunity for her, becoming the club’s owner in December 2022. She loves that the drink shop is all about connection – bringing people in for a conversation, not just a tasty drink.

“We want to be adding something to our customers’ lives, social connection as well as nutrition,” Mills says. “They become more like friends, chatting with us about their weekends.”

Mills always had an independent streak. Growing up on a corn and soybean farm, she learned how to be a part of the small farm team while also growing her skills to be her own boss someday. Now, business ownership gives her the flexibility to be part of the planting and harvesting seasons while also running the drink shop.

“It’s just me, my dad and my mom who farm all of our acres, so I want to help as much as possible,” Mills says. “I have incredible employees, and that’s the biggest blessing.”

Mills’ commitment to family is a big part of the shop’s success, creating word-of-mouth buzz around the shop and its offerings.

“I’ve learned how supportive people in Geneseo are of the community,” Mills says. “When I took over, my dad spread the word – my whole family did – and we saw an influx of business. People saw that I was from here, and they want to see this place grow.”

The name, Reap & Sow, reflects a bit of a personal philosophy for Mills and her team, where they’ve put in the work to prepare a great environment for their customers, sowing the seeds. They see the result when customers feel great and come back, reaping the benefits.

“I love meeting new people and making a difference in their lives,” Mills says. “I want everyone to be healthy and to be encouraged when they walk in the door.”

See more: Small Town Charm Awaits with 9 Things to Do in Geneseo, Illinois