Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Shannon Murphy, owner of Shannon M Cakes, located in Wasaga Beach, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a custom cake and cookie artist located in Wasaga Beach, Ontario, specializing in celebration cakes, sculpted cakes, and custom sugar cookies. I am a multi-award-winning cake artist, taking home 1st place in the first cake competition I entered and 2nd place in the second cake competition I entered. My typical client is someone who is having a large party like a wedding or milestone birthday. I have been fortunate enough to have even created custom confections for many celebrities, including Hilary Duff, Wayne Gretzky, AQUA, Priyanka (The winner of Canada's Drag Race) and Dustin Pedroia of the Boston Red Sox.
Tell us about yourself
I have worked in many bakeries in Toronto but wanted to branch out as my own business, so I could freely explore my creativity and get to know the people I am creating confections for. What motivates me every day is seeing the reactions from people when they see my work in person, especially when I get to meet couples on their wedding day. Every day and everything that I create is custom and one of a kind, so I am constantly learning and growing as an artist with each piece I create.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner was making a cake and cookies for Matthew Koma. He is a singer/songwriter who is super talented, and getting to know him has been such a pleasure. He has opened many doors for me that I will be forever grateful for.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing that comes with being a business owner is that you are constantly working. Even while on vacation, it is hard to turn off emails and social media.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- If you have a goal in mind, even something that you think is impossible, work for it. You never know what will happen!
- Don't take everything to heart. There are trolls on the internet who won't like your work, but don't let it get to you. Everyone's opinion is different. Some won't like your work, but some with LOVE it, and those are the people who matter to you.
- Don't undercharge for your work. If Tiffany & Co can charge $1500 for a paperclip, anything is possible. Always make sure to include an hourly rate, cost of tools/ingredients, and some sort of profit.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.shannonmcakes.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShannonMCakes/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannonmcakes/
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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