Ames A La Mode: A Sweet Journey of Nostalgia and Community
June 17, 2025
At The Bank of Tioga, we believe that a community is only as strong as its local businesses. This is why we have highlighted local businesses in northwest North Dakota as part of our Eat, Shop, Bank Local blog series. For this blog we have featured Morgan and Piper Ames owners of Ames A La Mode in Crosby, ND.
Story behind the owners
Creativity, wonder and generosity were the staples to the beginning of this small business journey. Morgan Ames, along with her daughter Piper, are the proud owners of Ames A La Mode, a local community business that brings a variety of nostalgic ice cream truck goodies to Crosby and surrounding communities. The business idea came to life when Morgan envisioned the joy of having a local ice cream truck in her hometown. The dream started to take shape when Morgan's father, Piper's grandpa, mentioned selling a van he owned. Piper, with her entrepreneurial spirit, offered her grandpa $7 from her wallet, and he agreed to the sale! With the van secured, Morgan and Piper worked together to clean it out, add flooring, purchase freezers, and install a generator. Morgan later added speakers to project that nostalgic ice cream truck music as they enter each neighborhood.
Tell us a little bit about your business
Morgan and Piper's main goal is to keep the treats and snacks they sell affordable. Along with ice cream treats, they offer snacks such as chips, jerky, and water. Last year, they introduced punch cards costing $20 for 12 treats, which have been well-received, especially by parents who appreciate the convenience of their kids and friends enjoying a treat even without cash.
What advice would you give to other people who are interested in starting their own business?
Morgan has learned that with any business, there is always a risk. If you are willing to take the risk, put in the hard work – it always pays off! She credits her dad, Piper's grandpa, for instilling in her the belief that the risk is worth the reward.
Where do you want to be in five years?
Morgan's plan is to pass the business to Piper as she gets older. She hopes to upgrade the van to make it more accessible to customers by adding a window.
What factors influenced your decision to choose our bank for your business needs?
Morgan loves how community oriented The Bank of Tioga is and appreciates how the bank always gives back. She enjoys banking at a community-focused business.
Can you share any specific examples of how our bank's services have helped your business grow or addressed your specific needs?
Morgan appreciates The Bank of Tioga's online banking, which allows her to view all her accounts in one place seamlessly
Andrea Nigaard at the bank assisted after hours. She was able to reach out to her, share her need, and Andrea made a note of it and then reached out the next morning with the request complete. Something that is so great about small community banking!
Location and Hours
The ice cream truck is seasonal and will be up and running in the community soon! Morgan intends to participate in additional events and activities a few times each week, be sure to look at their Facebook page for updates at Ames A La Mode.
Morgan not only owns Ames A La Mode but also 17 N Main Bistro, Crosby's main street coffee shop. She is grateful for The Bank of Tioga's support, like inviting her to community events where she can sell treats and cater for the bank.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Morgan has enjoyed sharing Ames A La Mode with her daughter Piper. It has been a fun business where she witnesses both adults and kids always happy and smiling. After all, who wouldn't be happy getting ice cream?
At The Bank of Tioga, we IGNITE PROSPERITY® by helping our clients do more with their money. Whether it’s saving a little extra cash each month or accomplishing a long-term strategy, our goal is to help you transform your financial life. Call and schedule an appointment today, one of our team members would love to help you do more with your money at The Bank of Tioga. The Bank of Tioga has two locations in North Dakota. For more information visit thebankoftioga.com or call 701-664-3388 for Tioga or 701-965-6333 for Crosby.