Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alexandra Fox, Founder of Willow Tree Cupcakes, located in Wadsworth, OH, USA.

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

Did you know that the top three reasons customers love ordering from Willow Tree Cupcakes are because:

  1. They know they are always getting fresh, high-quality, delicious cupcakes made JUST FOR THEM!
  2. They are looking for something other than the run-of-the-mill cupcakes from big box stores with overly sweet icing and frozen cupcakes. I offer something they can't get anywhere else, completely customizable cupcakes, from the flavors to the decorations. I can make their imagination come to life!
  3. They love how easy it is to order and to fit THEIR schedule. Being a home bakery, I can work around your busy schedule and set pick-up or delivery times that work best for you.

I started my Willow Tree Cupcakes because I'm passionate about baking and wanted to find a way to share my talents with my community. For me, it's so much more than just my job. I'm in it because of the smiles on customers' faces when they see exactly what they pictured, the emails I get after their event saying how much everyone raved about them, the ability to constantly grow with my business and learn new techniques and skills, and to make new connections and friends along the way.

Tell us about yourself

Most people don't know this, but I actually started working as an ice cream cake decorator at my local ice cream shop because I always loved decorating. At the time, I got to learn new skills and techniques and try (and sometimes fail) new things. It made it possible for me to hone my skills and learn about gum paste, buttercream flowers, cake writing, color mixing, and the basics of business, and I knew right away that it was what I wanted to do professionally. It took ten years of hard work and dedication to become the baker I wanted to be and grow my business into what it is today.

I truly believe I have the best world in the job and couldn't imagine doing anything else. Working with customers who value the hard work I put into the work I do is incredibly rewarding.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Willow Tree Cupcakes has won several awards three years in a row, from Most Loved Cakes and Cupcakes from Hulafrog to Most Beautiful Cake from the Giving In Style Fashion Show in Medina, Ohio, as well as several other awards that I am so thankful for!

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

Life and business balance. When I'm not in the kitchen, I love spending time with my husband and family. Balancing between being a small business owner and a wife is no easy task, but it's what makes this journey even more fun. Somehow, although it always feels like a balancing act, they someone complement each other in the most beautiful way, and I truly believe that it's made me a better small business owner because I have such a supportive family.

It's taught me that I can ask for help and that I don't have to do it all myself, and slow down and step out of the kitchen once in a while, and most importantly, it's made my love for baking that much stronger because I get to enjoy what I do every day.

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

  1. Do your research on what you can and cannot sell. I have seen so many bakeries sell things they are not allowed because they don't have proper licensing, and that can make people ill. So definitely check your local laws!
  2. Don't be afraid to reach out and connect with other bakers and others in your community! We love to lift each other up and support one another.
  3. Take your time starting out; there's no rush to be a huge business right off the bat. It's okay to be small!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Thank you to all my amazing customers and supporters. Without you, I wouldn't be where I am today. Thanks for growing with me, for trusting me, and for always supporting me. You all mean the world to me!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.willowtreecupcakes.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/willowtreecupcakes
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowtreecupcakes/

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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