Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Theresa Cheung, Founder of CiCi's Cakery, located in Ridgewood, NJ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm a home-based bakery that specializes in custom cakes, cupcakes, cake pops, decorated sugar cookies, table desserts, and edible party favors. My customers are foodies who value taste as much as aesthetics, someone who appreciates edible art.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Theresa, and I started baking seven years ago when my older daughter, CiCi, was allergic to nuts. I learned to bake cakes so that she could have a birthday cake that was safe for her to eat. When I decided to quit the fashion industry, I decided to start my social media pages to see if I could build a side business for myself and continue being a stay-at-home mom. CiCi has outgrown her nut allergies since, and I have been baking from home for the last six years while taking care of my two daughters. I've had to slow down my business at times due to chronic pain, but my kids keep me motivated! They watch me run a business as a mom boss, and they are so proud of me! I love being this role model to them!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is really the relationships I've built and the people I've met through making their cakes. I love connecting with people, and it brings me a lot of joy to help them celebrate their milestones or special occasions. My work has attracted clients from TV personalities and Asian Pop Stars to clients flying in from Mexico and across the country to celebrate their special occasions.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Being able to do it all and not have help! I'm a one-woman show who is also a stay-at-home mom. That's like working two full-time jobs! When other people's weekend starts is when my work begins.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Make sure you have a plan and a goal and hold yourself accountable to meet deadlines. In the baking business, you have to be consistent with your recipes and hone your skills, so the final product is perfection!
Where can people find you and your business?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CiCisCakery/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cicis_cakery/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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