Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ann Danner, president of Iced And Topped Bakery Shoppe, located in Douglasville, GA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Our business is Iced And Topped Bakery Shoppe in Douglasville, Ga. Our customers are sweet and treat lovers locally and nationwide. We create grandma's old-fashioned cakes, brownies, cupcakes, and pies. This is just plain old good southern cooking.
Tell us about yourself
The shop is a labor of love with my family and me. With around fifty coffee selections and an eclectic offering of baked treats reflecting a variety of cultures, I have set out to make Iced and Topped a regular destination for foodies and those who just want to relax and enjoy a sweet treat.
Reflecting on my experiences as part of a military family, my husband retired from the Army. I shared my opportunities to experience other places influenced my vision for the bakery. “My shop is a little taste of France with a bit of Southern goodness. We are a military family and have traveled to so many places. The French cafe style intrigued me, and I wanted to create that experience when people walk in. I also wanted it to be a comfortable space. We offer all sorts of baked goods from around the world.”
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is the smiling faces entering and returning. Hearing the stories about the families and the love makes it all worthwhile.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the most difficult things about being a business owner is meeting the demands of a busy bakery. There are times when it gets overwhelming, making things flow smoothly and replacing and repeating daily.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do your due diligence.
- Remember that everything stops at the door, and you remember that it is not personal; it's business. The right attitude each day means a lot!
- Don't take it home. Keep a good work-life balance and go above and beyond.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Always go in expecting more but don't be alarmed if it doesn't happen right away. Always remain humble and caring. We never expected things to take off the way they did, but we are so grateful. We constantly thank our customers and offer them all sorts of great things. Customer service and a great product or service are the keys.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.icedandtopped.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/icedandtoppedbakery
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/icedandtoppedbakery/
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.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.