Located at the intersection of State Street, Michigan Avenue and First Street, just south of Klotz’s Auto Parts in Shelby, Little KK’s opened for business Memorial Day weekend as the newest ice cream store in town. “We’re seeing more and more customers every day,” said owner Kloe Klotz.
Graduating a year and a half early with a bachelor's in business administration from Davenport University, Klotz said, “From an early age I’ve always known I wanted to own a business. I grew up in it. It’s in my blood.”
Klotz is the daughter of Kati Klotz and granddaughter of Diane (Gary) Lewis and Kalvin Klotz. Diane is the former owner of That Place Restaurant and the Pentwater Dari Creme, along with a number of other area businesses. Kalvin is the founder of Klotz Auto Parts.
After taking two elective classes in high school, "Intro to Business" and "Digital Marketing," Klotz said, “It really clicked.”
Klotz started with a mobile truck, thinking she wanted to go that route, but very soon after purchasing one and thinking through all the logistics, she decided that wasn’t for her. “I wanted a more permanent location. I wanted to be part of the community.”
Little KK’s offers the standard soft and hard serve cone favorites and ice cream creations, as well as Red Bull mocktails, iced coffees, flurries, and specialty donuts. “I think my flurries have been my number one top-seller so far,” she said.
With a great location and her positive attitude, she strives to be an excellent addition to the Shelby community. When asked what advice she’d have for other young entrepreneurs out there, she shared, “Love everything loudly, lean into your support and pour your heart into your passions. Don’t be afraid of mistakes, failures or when everything seems like it’s not going your way. Don’t give up on yourself. It’s very easy to do, but accept that mistakes will happen and perseverance is key.”
Even though Klotz has only just opened her very first real business, she’s already got her eye on the future. She said someday she’d like to develop the property to include other food vendors or even hold events for the community.
Little KK’s is typically open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., a little later on Sundays and closed on Wednesdays. Klotz recommends checking Little KK’s on Facebook or Instagram for days, times and specials.
