Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Julie Denny, Owner of Sweet Treatz, located in Scarborough, ON, CA.

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

Sweet Treatz is a baked goods company that takes eggs, flour, and sugar, adds lots of love, and turns them into that special addition to your celebration. Whether it be a custom cake, bite-sized cheesecakes, or party favor cake jars, we work with our clients to bring their vision to reality. Nothing beats being able to bring a smile to someone on their special day.

Our best seller and biggest hit are our Premium Alcohol Infused Treats, in which we only use the best spirits available. ;)

Tell us about yourself

I am a fun-loving, down-to-earth mom to an amazing young boy. I started thinking of my company when my son told me he no longer wanted to go to school in the snow and needed to see his mom more. Talk about tugging on the heartstrings. In 2016 after lots of prompting from loved ones, I decided to bring Sweet Treatz to the world.

I do what I do because I enjoy seeing the surprised look on my clients' faces when they get their orders. It lets me know that I have made their day just a little extra special.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

As a business owner, I have had many accomplishments, and I cherish all of them. I have been invited to bake for Rogers Communication, Toronto Carnival, Shoppers Drug Mart, and even received an order from Germany!! Even with all of that, my biggest accomplishment has been being able to show my son that it is possible to do what you love and enjoy every minute of it.

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

One of the hardest things about owning my own business is learning to ask for help. Being a one-woman show and a perfectionist makes it hard to ask others for help, even if it would make things easier. During the pandemic, I have learned to switch gears and rely on others to assist when I need it, resulting in a much better work-life balance for myself and my family.

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

  1. Do your research. Research your niche. Is there a need for it? Will your business fulfill that need?
  2. Get a mentor. Find someone who aligns with your values and will provide you with the mentorship results you seek.
  3. Never give up!! Running a business is hard. There will be days when you want to quit but don't. Take a small break to refocus, regroup and get back at it.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I embrace being a black woman-owned business and use it to help encourage others about the possibilities available to them. In my community, my business represents the hard work of a black woman being recognized and seen. It shows that anyone can make it through the many struggles we face daily and come out on the positive end.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://sweettreatz.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SweetTreatz1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweet__treatz__/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SweetTreatz_
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3HSMx7T

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.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.