Today we’d like to introduce you to Melvin Leland Jr.
Hi Melvin, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
It all started in my mom’s kitchen with her saying, “you’re gonna know how to take care of yourself when you get older.” This was at the age of five, and at such an impactful time in my life; it stuck and I have had a love for food ever since.
Thanks to her early intervention and the need to keep a curious five-year-old busy, I was able to explore the kitchen and find my niche. Grins and Giggles Cookie Co. was born out of favor for a friend and has grown into a passion. A passion for innovation, creation, and quality. I strive to develop new flavors and add an elevated twist to the classics.
My business has evolved as time and demand have dictated. Now, I no longer feature cookies alone; there are cakes, macaron, pretzels, truffles and so much more. I now consider myself a custom baker and not just a cookie chef. I am all about taking an idea and bringing it to life, not only visually but with flavors as well. Desserts should not only look good but taste amazing as well.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Things have been interesting throughout the course of developing my brand, once I got started, I had a few difficulties establishing a workspace. So much so that we decided to build a new house to accommodate.
Also, the hurdles that any small business faces in getting their name out there. Once I had established a reasonable clientele base, COVID-19 hit. That basically killed my business for an entire year. 2021 has been the year of “get back on the horse.” It has taken a lot of effort and determination to continue, especially when I thought that I wouldn’t have a business again.
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?
Grins and Giggles Cookie Co. is a licensed cottage bakery that focuses on the freshest ingredients, local purveyors, innovative techniques to produce one-of-a-kind desserts. We are known for our specialty cookies, cakes, and custom desserts. I am a self-taught baker that uses a background in savory cooking to influence my desserts.
The knowledge that I have earned by being in the food and beverage industry for 18 years has helped me find a balance between sweetness and flavor. I am the proudest of being able to grow and develop this business into something I see myself doing for the rest of my life. I am proud that I followed my heart and that it hasn’t steered me wrong in this endeavor.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
When I look for a mentor I look for someone who is like-minded. I also look for people that have the drive to push for their goals in an ethical and honest manner. I think that what has worked well for me is being ready for feedback, especially from those that are closest to you. Not only that but also surrounding yourself with people that aren’t afraid to tell you that you’re going down the wrong path.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: grinsandgigglescookieco.com
- Instagram: @grinsandgigglescookieco
- Facebook: @grinsandgigglescookieco
Image Credits
Salvador Andrade, Jay Hill, and Melvin Leland
