Throughout October, we’re celebrating National Women’s Small Business Month by highlighting women in our community who have followed their passions and built businesses of their own.
Today, we’re featuring Jill Hass, owner of Olita Gifts and Goods and Olita’s Sips in downtown Hutchinson!
Jill has been in business for roughly 10 years, opening Olita Gifts & Goods in Hutchinson in March 2021 and adding Olita’s Sips in June 2025. Olita Gifts & Goods offers a thoughtfully curated selection of gifts, self-care essentials, women’s accessories, children’s and baby items, greeting cards, and one-of-a-kind finds. Olita’s Sips is a beverage shop serving everything from dirty sodas and refreshing refreshers to iced lattes and more. With hundreds of drink combinations, there’s something for everyone!
What inspired Jill to become a business owner?
“After years of being an at-home mom and childcare provider, I wanted to create something that was fun, exciting, and truly my own.”
Starting her businesses gave Jill the opportunity to use her creativity, explore her passions, and build something that brings joy to others while allowing her to grow personally and professionally.
One of the things Jill enjoys most about owning a business is being part of the Hutchinson community and bringing a little character, joy, and something unique to downtown.
“There’s something special about finding those one-of-a-kind things you can only discover in a small community and sharing them with friends, family, and neighbors.”
Jill believes shopping locally is about more than making a purchase. It’s about supporting people you know, building connections, and helping businesses that give back to the community.
What is Jill most proud of? Building her businesses from the ground up! With hard work, determination, passion, and a lot of support from her family, Jill has turned her ideas into something that has become a meaningful part of her life and our community.
But she’s also quick to acknowledge that small business ownership isn’t always easy.
“One of the biggest things I’ve learned from owning a business is that you have to be flexible, embrace the ups and downs, and develop a thick skin—because no two days are ever the same, and there will always be challenges along the way.”
What’s next for Jill and her businesses?
Jill hopes to continue doing what she loves all the way through retirement, although she knows how unpredictable owning a small business can be.
“There is always something to add, change, remodel, build. I try to plan but truly take it one day at a time!”
At Olita’s Sips, she’s focused on growing a loyal customer base through the Sips Savings rewards program and expanding online ordering with convenient Parking Lot Pick-Up, especially during rainy days and Minnesota winters!
For Olita Gifts & Goods, Jill hopes to continue growing online sales throughout the country, helping the business remain strong even when in-store shopping slows down.
Jill’s advice for other women thinking about starting a business?
“Ask questions and never be afraid to reach out to other women in business for advice and support. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, be flexible, and learn as you go.”
And perhaps her best reminder? “Owning a business is going to be a roller coaster ride—whether you think it will be or not—so buckle up, enjoy the ride, and keep going!”
Thank you, Jill, for sharing your story and for bringing your creativity and passion to downtown Hutchinson. We appreciate the time, energy, and dedication you put into your businesses and our community!
