Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Noukee Fleischmann, co-owner of The Salted Cake, located in Roseville, MN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a small cottage bakery based in the Twin Cities, MN. We make cakes and cupcakes for people who love celebrating their special occasions, but we also believe in having cake just because it’s a Tuesday night!
Tell us about yourself
I am a single mother of two boys, and I am also a wedding photographer. When the pandemic hit and all the weddings were postponed, like so many others, I found myself with more time on my hands and the challenge of finding new ways to support my family. I had been making cakes for loved ones in the past, so after some encouragement from my family, I decided to try baking for everyone, and I love it!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
When we first started this new venture, we really had no expectations… it just made us happy to bake and design for people… however, in our first month, we started receiving inquiries for wedding cakes. Already being in the wedding industry, I know how much time and patience it can take to enter the industry. We booked three weddings within the first couple of months, and it is something we are very proud of. But I’d have to say our favorite accomplishment is when our customers come back for more! It’s the greatest validation for us.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Balance!! We aim to please, and sometimes that drives us to lose track of time we put into our creations. This means less time for other important things, which can take a toll on family life. Learning the boundaries and respecting work hours is still something we are working on!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
The first tip I’d share is to expect that you will make mistakes- sometimes big and sometimes small. But always remember that it’s part of the learning process. It’s so important, too, to remember not to be too hard on yourself when mistakes do happen- we all know that mistakes help us learn!
Second, make an effort to connect with people and take every opportunity to learn from and help them! Community is such an invaluable resource!!
Third, it is so important to surround yourself with people who love and support you! It can be overwhelming when self-doubt creeps in so that you will need your people!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Just that we are grateful for this experience and the continual love and support from our customers! Thank you!!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.thesaltedcake.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSaltedCake/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesaltedcake/
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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