Edible Franchise: AJ and Tina Patel's Journey to Bringing Joy to Lake Nona

For Tina and Arjun (AJ) Patel, becoming Edible® franchise owners is more than a business venture — it’s a new chapter that aligns with their values, passions and dedication to community.

With over 15 years of expertise, AJ has a deep-rooted entrepreneurial background, having owned and operated multiple successful franchises, including Subway, Dunkin’ and a New York-style deli. Beyond franchising, AJ’s professional journey includes working closely with C-suite executives while remaining actively involved in property investments and alternative finance. Tina, on the other hand, complements AJ’s business acumen with her extensive legal background — specializing in banking, corporate and criminal law — and her role as an audit and compliance officer.

With over 10 years of legal and people management experience, Tina is passionate about supporting community initiatives, often providing pro bono legal guidance to small businesses. The duo now bring a wealth of knowledge, passion and heart to their newest endeavor with Edible in Lake Nona, Florida.

Franchise selection process

When considering new business opportunities, finding a franchise that resonated with their values was essential for the Patels.

“We wanted a franchise that aligned with our beliefs and morals,” AJ said. “We want to put a smile on people’s faces, and Edible hits on all of that.”

Edible is a unique and innovative franchise that specializes in a range of offerings, including its iconic fruit arrangements, as well as dessert boards, cookies, cakes and farm-fresh flowers that are perfect for every celebratory occasion and any treat-yourself moment. Founded in 1999, the brand has revolutionized the gifting industry by combining the convenience of e-commerce with the personal touch of locally owned brick-and-mortar stores.

"Edible is all about gifting life’s moments, from birthdays to anniversaries, and we loved that,” AJ said. “It’s a business that brings happiness, and that is so fulfilling to us.”

Community involvement

Since relocating to Florida in 2016, AJ and Tina have established strong connections in Lake Nona, immersing themselves in community activities, from joining the local HOA to engaging in various committees. “We’ve built a large network here, and being part of the community is something we value deeply,” AJ said.

For the Patels, Edible provides an ideal platform to further their community involvement and deepen their local relationships. “We’re very community-oriented people,” Tina said. “Having a business like Edible will allow us to connect even more with the residents here and bring something special to them.”

AJ and Tina’s entrepreneurial drive and strong sense of purpose made the decision to join Edible an easy one. “We are past the stage in our careers of doing things just to make money,” AJ said. “We had to find a business that we were passionate about. With Edible, we see the potential for growth, but more importantly, it’s a brand we can stand behind.”

Next gen store concept

The Lake Nona store also marks the first of Edible’s Next-Gen store concepts in the area, a cafe-style location that blends e-commerce with in-store experiences.

“Lake Nona is an innovative community, and Edible saw its potential. Being the first next-gen store here aligns with our forward-thinking mindset,” AJ said. “Edible is a brand that’s not only evolving with the times but is also paving the way for future franchisees.”

Having operated other franchises in the past, AJ notes that the support they’ve received from Edible has been exceptional. “The real estate team has been very consultative, making sure that we’re protected and giving us proper guidance,” he said. “Edible has taken the time to get to know us and our goals. It’s a huge reassurance to know we have a franchisor that wants us to succeed and is building a strong brand for the future.”

With their grand opening on the horizon, AJ and Tina are eager to bring Edible’s celebrated brand to Lake Nona. And they’re thinking beyond just one location. “Once we open this first store, we hope to expand into other areas around Orlando,” AJ said.

Overall, for the Patels, an Edible franchise isn’t just another business — it’s a way to bring joy, connect with their community and build a future with a brand that values both innovation and tradition.

“Edible has a strong vision, and we’re thrilled to be part of it,” AJ said. “This is just the beginning.”

Founded in 1999, Edible® has revolutionized the gifting industry, uniquely leveraging the synergistic power of an innovative e-commerce hub and locally owned brick-and-mortar locations across the globe. Edible's platform seamlessly blends the convenience of online shopping with a vast retail footprint that services over 80% of U.S.

households within an hour. Expanding beyond its iconic fruit arrangements, Edible has a range of offerings, including delectable dessert boards, cookies, brownies, cakes, farm-fresh flowers and more – perfect for every celebratory occasion and any treat-yourself moment. For more information, visit edible.