Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jess Darling, owner of Honey Bee Sweets, located in Adams, MA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Honey Bee Sweets is a residential bakery in small-town New England that opened in July 2020. I specialize in custom cakes, cookies, cupcakes, and cocoa bombs! I love creating pieces that are unique to each customer for all special occasions. Some of my favorite orders have been a cake decorated as a sushi roll, my signature Peanut Butter Dream Cake (Number 1 seller), and woodland decorated sugar cookies.

Tell us about yourself

I am 100% self-taught. I have always had a passion for baking. In fact, my earliest memory is watching FoodNetwork at just four years old and then running into the kitchen to “bake” up to something for my friends and family. My amazing husband is who pushes me every day and motivates me to continue pursuing my passion. I love to learn new tricks and techniques constantly, so my skill set will continue to grow.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has been selling over 3,000 cocoa bombs during the holiday season. Cocoa bombs are chocolate spheres that overturn into hot chocolate once poured hot milk!

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

The hardest aspect of being a business owner is balance. I am always trying to make sure my family and my business are given enough attention and support.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Learn/Research: Read everything possible about your field and talk to other business owners to see if they have tips or tricks
  2. Make time for yourself. Being a business owner can be stressful at times, so it is important to make sure you reflect and have “self-check-ins.”
  3. Be unique. There is always going to be someone who is your “competition.” Find a way to make what YOU do special and stand out from all the rest.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

It is with the help of fellow small business owners, my amazing customers, and most importantly, my family that has allowed me to pursue my dream and open Honey Bee Sweets.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.honeybeesweetsna.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweetashoney
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/honeybeesweetsbakes/


If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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