Just One Bite, You'll Know Why - Ashley's Famous Cookies
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ashley Brown, owner of Ashley's Famous Cookies, located in Pelham, AL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The name of my business is called Ashley's Famous Cookies. We are a gourmet cookie company that caters to cookie connoisseurs all over the country!
Tell us about yourself
I started selling cookies in 2018 after baking cookies at home for two years. My mother would not stop talking about how delicious the cookies were and insisted that I sell them. Whenever I would try to bring home other cookies, she would say, "I will not eat them. I only want Ashley's Famous Cookies." Of course, this is how we got our name.
I have always loved to bake, and as a creator, I get a natural high off of creating something from nothing. I love that my career offers me the freedom to be myself, be creative, and make people happy! I pour my heart and soul into the cookies, and seeing the reaction people have from their first experience makes it worth it. You really have to love what you do. Even when we are extremely busy and have high-stress levels, it still feels fun.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is being able to have a consistent business for four years. I started out really small, and now I am solely an online cookie company that ships to all 50 states. To see the growth every year is amazing. Each year my "busy" months become my new "slow" months. I am extremely grateful for Ashley's Famous Cookies' support thus far.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is balancing your professional and personal life. Unlike working for someone else, you never get to clock out entirely. There is always something to do and a position to fill, especially in the beginning. You will wear many hats and are expected to provide the same services as bigger corporations. As a mother of three, I am learning that balance is extremely important. It's okay to walk away and finish tomorrow. Your time is most valuable, and you cannot get it back.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Start. You can do all of the planning possible, but you have to put yourself out there at some point. Tell your family, friends, community, and socials about your new service or product. It may not be perfectly packaged yet, but people will support someone they believe in.
- Be you. Do not get too caught up in trends. People are looking for something different and genuine. Even if it feels like you are off to a slow start, your niche audience will find you.
- Network, Research, & Ask for Help.
Find other entrepreneurs and business people that are on or have been on a similar journey as you. Attend events and take opportunities that allow you to get yourself out there. Research other businesses that do something similar to you and take notes on the pros and cons of their business. Last but not least, don't be afraid to ask for help. The worse someone can say is no or that they are not willing to share information.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Running a business is not always going to be a walk in the park, but as it grows, you grow with it. Even when you think you are three steps ahead, something always pops up that has to be figured out on the spot. Do not be afraid of growth. It can be scary because it comes with more responsibility, but you will eventually get your groove again. Have faith and be consistent. Success takes time. You got this!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.ashleysfamouscookies.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AshleysFamousCookies
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleysfamouscookies/
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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