Amazon Prime’s “Buy It Now"
My Behind-the-Scenes Journey on Amazon Prime’s "Buy It Now"
Hi friends, it’s Maddie here! I’m bursting with excitement to share some truly unforgettable news: Maddie’s Natural Sweetener made its debut on Amazon Prime’s new game show, Buy It Now, hosted by JB Smoove! This whirlwind experience—from a surprise invitation to pitching my heart out on national TV—was one for the books. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane, shall we?
A Sweet Surprise
It all started with a twist of fate: a viral TikTok and a feature in Business Insider last December. Out of the blue, a casting agent reached out, asking if I’d apply for a Shark Tank-style Amazon Prime show called Buy It Now. It was an immediate “yes” from me—though I quickly learned the clock was ticking. The casting was nearly closed, and I had just days to create a pitch video, tackle mountains of paperwork, and whip up a digital folder of information.
Lights, Camera, Sweetness!
Armed with my trusty $20 tripod and the help of my amazing friends—Ben, a videography wizard, and Chad, an actor who ran lines with me—I transformed my tiny studio apartment into a makeshift film set. My 90-second pitch came together in a flurry of lights, homemade treats, and a little extra makeup. Maddie’s Natural Sweetener was the star of the show, and I poured my heart into telling its story.
The Wait That Felt Like Forever
After submitting everything, I had to sit tight, a task easier said than done. Weeks later, the call came: the producers loved my pitch and the product samples. It was official—I was heading to the big stage!
200 Slices, Zero Sleep
Before I could shine on stage, I faced one of my sweetest challenges yet: creating a sample for the judges and a 100-person studio audience. Baking mini chocolate cakes for 200 people in my neighbor’s kitchen the day before filming? Check. Rehearsing my pitch until dawn while praying my pimple patches worked their magic? Double check. By the time I loaded up an Uber with boxes of treats and bags under my eyes, I was running on pure adrenaline (and a little Maddie’s magic in my coffee, of course).
Behind the Scenes: Day of the Shoot
Walking into the studio was like stepping into a dream. The production was massive—crews buzzing around, hair and makeup stations glowing, and contestants huddled in excitement. I was the youngest founder there and one of the few new to the spotlight.
While waiting for my turn, I huddled under a blanket lent to me (it was freezing, and my dress was not my choice!) and sipped tea offered by the sweetest crew members. They made me feel at home, even as nerves bubbled up.
The Set Reveal
When I finally saw my set, my jaw dropped. The team created a beautiful pink pastry case complete with cakes, muffins, and the most stunning Maddie’s Natural Sweetener display I’d ever seen. It all felt surreal.
The Pitch of a Lifetime
Standing under the bright lights before a live audience and JB Smoove, my nerves melted into determination. I shared my 90-second pitch with every ounce of passion I could muster. The audience’s reaction? A glowing 78 green lights! My heart was racing as JB announced —the highest score of the show so far! I couldn’t stop smiling.
The Judges
Carmen Nestares, VP of Amazon Marketing Tech
Jamie Siminoff, Founder of Ring
Christian Siriano, Fashion Designer
The feedback was amazing—Jamie loved the product and related the packaging to the initial high-end box that "Ring" came in, Christian raved about the branding and said he was going to "buy it for himself in bulk", and Carmen offered invaluable advice about getting more niche in targeting our ideal customer. While Maddie’s didn’t make it to the official Buy It Now Storefront, the experience opened doors we’d never dreamed of, and you can now find us on Amazon Prime and Subscription!
A Sweet Ending
The show wrapped and all of the cast went to dinner in Venice (as I was the only one not flown in) to celebrate together. Despite the long day (and a few tears) I left with new friends, priceless connections, and renewed excitement for the company's future. To this day I have kept in touch with fellow cast mates, producers, and my initial casting agent.
A Heartfelt Thank You
This experience was sweeter than I ever imagined. A huge thank-you to Amazon for believing in Maddie’s and to all of YOU for your love and support. None of this would be possible without it.
Experience Maddie’s Natural Sweetener for Yourself!
Shop Maddie’s Natural Sweetener Now
Organic and Natural: A blend of coconut palm sugar, stevia, and monk fruit
Guilt-Free Sweetness: Just as delicious, with fewer calories
Ethically Sourced: A better choice for you and the planet
Guilt-Free Sweetness: Just as delicious, with fewer calories
Ethically Sourced: A better choice for you and the planet
As a thanks to you, enjoy 10% off your first purchase with the code BUYITNOW when you shop directly on our website
Don’t Miss Our Episode!
Air Date: November 20, 2024
Where: Exclusively on Prime Video in the U.S.
Episode: Episode 6 of Buy It Now
Gather your loved ones, a yummy treat, and tune in to see Maddie’s Natural Sweetener in action—it’s a moment we’ll never forget!
Disclaimer: This blog shares our personal experience on Buy It Now. To see the full outcome, watch the episode on Prime Video.