Today we’d like to introduce you to Joanna Brashear.
Joanna, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I have always loved baking. Growing up, I’d bake my birthday cakes with my grandma in those cool Wilton-shaped pans that all kids love. She would give me the creative freedom to decorate them how I wanted and since then it was always hard to keep me out of the kitchen. My family constantly wanted me to make them sweets. Whether it was bread, cookies, cupcakes, or cake.
I grew up in WA state and unfortunately, the cottage food laws are super strict there so the only way I would be able to really pursue my dream of being a “baker” and sharing my love for baking with others, would be to open a storefront. Unfortunately, Covid hit and that’s when my family and I decided to sell everything we owned, put what fits in the back of our car, and moved to the space coast.
My parents and grandma then gave me the push needed to start here in FL since the laws are more lenient. I started by just doing bread & cinnamon rolls and within 2-3 weeks word of mouth spread and my business took off. I then started getting requests for cupcakes and cakes and that’s when things really took off for me. It’s still hard for me to wrap my head around how fast my business took off since it’s been less than a year since I started.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Surprisingly, it’s been a really smooth road. I live in one of the best communities, where everyone is always wanting to support small businesses. I love seeing my clients constantly refer me to the community and love seeing how happy and satisfied they are with their orders.
Honestly, all businesses have their struggles. My biggest struggle is trying to keep things affordable, while still trying to make some extra money. It’s a huge challenge though, due to the prices of groceries and materials continually going up in price.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I do custom cakes and cupcakes. (Along with cake cones, cake pops, cupcake cakes, etc.).
I’m known for my “super moist & delicious” cakes. I get compliments all the time that it’s the best cake my clients have ever had. I’m most proud of how far I’ve come and how much my business has grown. I didn’t think I’d be where I am today but it just proves to me that if you put in the time and effort, anything is possible and dreams really do come true.
What sets me apart from others is I treat my customers as if it was me ordering something. I always verify their orders, keep good communication, send pictures as soon as their order is completed and be sure it’s to their standards and always make things right if they want something changed.
Keeping an upbeat attitude and always being kind with that open communication is key to having a successful business, even if your client is challenging to work with.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Not to take myself too seriously, even though sometimes failing is just part of the process.
I’m SUPER hard on myself. I’m a perfectionist and when something doesn’t turn out exactly how I want it or I don’t think the client will like it, I stress myself out until I get that clarification that my client loves their product.
They say you’re your biggest critic and it’s not a lie.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shop.bakesy.app/b/cookie-momsters-sweets-treats
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jobrashear?mibextid=LQQJ4d
