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Key Takeaways Several years ago, Ken and Sarah Barlow realized their South Carolina city did not have a self-service frozen yogurt business.
They started working with 16 Handles in early 2024 and opened their franchise location in June 2025.
In their first six months, they did $1 million in sales.
For Ken and Sarah Barlow, the idea to open a frozen yogurt franchise started during a simple family moment. Their young daughter asked if she could go somewhere to “make her own ice cream” or choose her own flavors and toppings. The couple realized that their hometown of Forest Acres, South Carolina, did not have a self-service frozen yogurt business at the time.
“That gap mattered not just to her, but to families like ours who loved that experience,” Sarah tells Entrepreneur in a new interview. “That moment planted the seed.”
The couple realized that bringing a self-service frozen yogurt shop to the area wouldn’t just fulfill a need; it would also open the doors to “something joyful” and “community-centered,” Sarah says.
“This community has always been home for us,” she adds. “We’re total foodies who love frequenting our favorite spots in Forest Acres. Supporting other local businesses is something we genuinely enjoy.”
The Barlows decided on a 16 Handles franchise in early 2024 and opened their store in June 2025. Within six months of opening, they had done $1 million in sales.
The interview below has been edited for clarity and concision.
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