Client Success Story: Amber Burr, Daddy’s Homemade Syrups
What started as a simple family recipe has grown into a thriving Colorado small business built on quality ingredients, community connections, and a passion for entrepreneurship.
For Amber and her husband, founders of Daddy’s Homemade Syrup, the journey began after her husband experienced health issues that prompted the family to take a closer look at the ingredients in the foods they consumed. One day, he picked up a bottle of store-bought pancake syrup, read the label, and decided to put it back on the shelf.
Instead, he went home and started making syrup from a recipe passed down by his grandmother.
“At first, it was just for our family,” Amber said. “Our kids refused to eat any other syrup. They would say, ‘No, we want Daddy’s syrup!’”
As friends and family fell in love with the homemade recipe, the couple began selling small batches at local events and farmers markets. What they quickly discovered was that customers were using the syrups for far more than pancakes.
“People started putting it in coffee, cocktails, popcorn, and all kinds of recipes,” Amber said. “We accidentally created something much more versatile than we originally imagined.”
Shortly after officially launching the business, the family faced an unexpected challenge when COVID-19 disrupted traditional sales and sampling opportunities. At the same time, Amber was balancing entrepreneurship, three young children, and the demands of a growing business.
Despite the obstacles, customer demand continued to grow.
Today, Daddy’s Homemade Syrup offers handcrafted syrups made without artificial ingredients and has developed a loyal following among consumers looking for cleaner, high-quality alternatives. The business has also found success partnering with local coffee shops and food service providers who share its commitment to quality.
As the company expanded, Amber realized she needed support navigating the financial and operational challenges that come with growth. She first connected with CEDS Finance after meeting Business Consulting Director Micki O’Neil at a Denver Metro Chamber pitch competition.
At the time, Amber had struggled to secure financing because the business was investing heavily in growth. 
Rather than focusing solely on the numbers, CEDS Finance took the time to understand the company’s vision and potential. Through ongoing business coaching and technical assistance, Amber worked with Micki to strengthen financial systems, improve planning processes, and prepare for future growth. CEDS Finance later provided a loan to help move the business forward.
“She’s been a huge asset,” Amber said. “Not only did she help us secure financing, but she’s helped with cash flow planning, projections, inventory systems, and so many things I didn’t even know I needed.”
Now in business for seven years, Daddy’s Homemade Syrup continues to grow while staying true to its roots. The company’s signature glass bottles, family-centered story, and commitment to simple ingredients have helped it stand out in a crowded market.
For Amber, the business has become about much more than syrup.
“When we started, it was just about selling syrup,” she said. “Now it’s about connection. It’s about bringing people together, supporting other small businesses, and creating something meaningful for our family and community.”
As consumer demand continues shifting toward locally made products and cleaner ingredients, Amber is excited about the future.
“There’s so much potential,” she said. “More people are looking for alternatives, and we’re excited to be part of that movement.”
