Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Allen.
Hi Heather, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have always had an interest in baking, but it wasn’t until last year that I realized it to be a real passion and something I wanted to do professionally. I grew up baking with my nana but do not have any formal training or schooling and am self-taught. Originally, I only took orders on a part-time basis as I was still working a full-time job in an operations role with a company I worked for nearly a decade. However, I found myself constantly thinking about baking and started disliking my day job more and more. Earlier this year I resigned from my full-time job to pursue my baking business focusing on custom orders. In the past, I was often conflicted and restless, feeling that I would never find work I felt passionate about. It came as a surprise to me, my family, and friends to discover that baking was my passion and something I wanted to do as a career.
I am grateful to have experience in accounting and operations, as this has helped me run my business effectively. It has been a fun challenge learning more about advertising and marketing while honing my baking skills.
As an artist, I also find baking a wonderful creative outlet as it allows me to decorate cookies, cupcakes, and cakes in a variety of ways.
I am incredibly excited to continue growing my business and building relationships with local clients.
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?
Nothing worth having is every easy, right? There have been two primary struggles or obstacles so far. The first being a fear of change and risk. Leaving a familiar job with a company I had been with for nearly a decade was not an easy decision. But I knew I wouldn’t be able to fully dedicate myself to my bakery business goals while working full time.
The biggest struggle, which all bakers are feeling, is the continued rising cost of ingredients and the state of the economy. We aren’t seeing as many customers due to people’s financial priorities shifting–needing to spend more on gas and everyday essentials–custom desserts are even more of a luxury. As home bakers, we don’t have access to bulk pricing on ingredients the way chain bakeries or grocery stores do, so it is always a challenge to cover costs and make a profit while still remaining accessible to clients.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Craveworks, we specialize in custom cakes, cookies, and desserts. People are crazy about our chocolate and carrot cakes (and cupcakes)! I didn’t even like carrot cake until I started baking with my recipe, and now myself discipline is challenged whenever I make it. I believe our flavors set us apart from others, as well as dedication to providing an enjoyable ordering experience. Brand-wise, I am most proud of the carrot cake. Everyone who tries it absolutely loves it!
I’d like readers to know that I am dedicated to creating beautiful and delicious desserts and love collaborating with my client on their dessert creations to help make their events special. In addition, if there is something not listed on our menu, we are happy to take custom requests!
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Thank you for supporting small, locally, and women-owned businesses! I am so proud to be part of my local community and appreciate all of my clients.
Pricing:
- Decorated sugar cookie pricing ranges from $30 – $65 per dozen
- Custom Cake pricing starting at $40
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.craveworksbakery.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craveworks.bakery/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Craveworks/
